A derogatory term for a working-class white person from rural areas, particularly the Southern United States. Often implies conservative political views and perceived lack of sophistication.
Originally referred to farmers whose necks became red from working outdoors in the sun. The term gained political connotations in the early 20th century, sometimes used by labor organizers to describe militant workers who wore red bandanas.
The term has been both reclaimed with pride by some communities and condemned as classist stereotyping by others. Interestingly, 'redneck' was once a badge of honor among striking coal miners who wore red bandanas to show solidarity.
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