TED-ED: Mysteries of vernacular: Yankee - Jessica Oreck and Rachael Teel

TED-ED: Mysteries of vernacular: Yankee - Jessica Oreck and Rachael Teel

Assessment

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History

KG - University

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The term 'Yankee' has evolved significantly over time. Originally derived from the Dutch nickname 'Janke', it was used to describe Dutch sailors and pirates. By the 18th century, it became a term of contempt used by the British against American colonists. However, during the American Revolution, colonists embraced the term as a symbol of national pride. In the Civil War, it was used derogatorily by Southerners to refer to Union soldiers. Today, the term is less emotionally charged, except in the context of baseball.

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5 questions

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1.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What is the most likely origin of the term 'Yankee'?

An English word for settlers

A French term for explorers

A Dutch diminutive for 'little Jan'

A British nickname for Americans

2.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

In the 18th century, how did British general James Wolfe use the term 'Yankee'?

As a compliment to the colonists

As a neutral term for New Englanders

As a pejorative term for the colonists

As a nickname for British soldiers

3.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

By the 1780s, what did the term 'Yankee' come to signify?

A term of endearment for Americans

A title for American leaders

A derogatory term for any American

A nickname for British loyalists

4.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

During the American Revolution, how did colonists reinterpret the term 'Yankee'?

As a name for their enemies

As a term for British allies

As a reference to their leaders

As a symbol of national pride

5.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

How did the meaning of 'Yankee' change during the Civil War?

It lost all negative connotations

It was adopted by the Confederacy

It became a term of endearment

It was used to mock Union members