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Pennsylvania Dutch refers to an
ethnic group and cultural community in Pennsylvania (and surrounding
regions) who are descendants of 17th- and 18th-century immigrants from
German-speaking regions of Europe, particularly the Rhineland and
Switzerland. Despite the name, they are not from the Netherlands; "Dutch" is an anglicized corruption of Deitsch, the dialect's word for "German".
Key Aspects of the Pennsylvania Dutch:
- Origin: They originated from German-speaking areas (Palatinate, Switzerland, Alsace-Lorraine) and settled in Pennsylvania starting in the 1680s, often seeking religious freedom.
- Language:The Pennsylvania Dutch language (or Pennsylvania German) is a dialect of High German with influences from English. It is still spoken today, particularly within "Plain" communities.
- Not Dutch (from Holland): The term "Dutch" is a misnomer for the English word "German" (Deutsch).
- "Plain" vs. "Fancy" Dutch: The group is often divided into "Plain" sects (Amish, Mennonites, Brethren), who maintain a traditional, simple lifestyle, and "Fancy" Dutch (Lutherans, Reformed), who assimilated more quickly into mainstream American culture.
- Alternative Name: They are also frequently referred to as Pennsylvania Germans.
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