Pickaninny

Six Little Pickaninnies postcard 1902 Detroit Pub Co via NYPL Digital Collections

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1902 - 1903 postcard depicting eight black children with a palm tree in Puerto Rico

Children at Buk bilong Pikinini (books for children). Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. (10682223463)

Picaninny Freeze

Piccaninny Rag 1898

Pickaninny is a term that has been used historically in the English language to refer to a small African American child. It is now widely considered derogatory and offensive due to its associations with racism, colonialism, and the dehumanization of black children. The term originated in the 17th century and was derived from the Portuguese word pequenino, which translates as 'little one'. However, its usage in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, took on a pejorative connotation over time.

History and Usage

The pickaninny stereotype was a fixture in American culture and European culture from the slavery era until the mid-20th century. It depicted black children as unkempt, wide-eyed, and often in a state of undress. These caricatures were prevalent in literature, cartoons, and advertising, reinforcing the racist notion that African Americans were inferior and servile. The pickaninny archetype often appeared in the context of minstrel shows, children's literature, and consumer goods, contributing to the racialization of African American children and the normalization of their mistreatment.

Cultural Impact

The portrayal of black children as pickaninnies had a profound impact on the perception and treatment of African American youth. It served to dehumanize them, making it easier for society to justify their exploitation and abuse. This stereotype played into broader narratives of racism and white supremacy, reinforcing the social and economic hierarchies that placed African Americans at the bottom. The legacy of the pickaninny stereotype continues to affect how black children are viewed and treated, with echoes of these depictions still seen in some contemporary media and societal attitudes.

Contemporary Perspectives

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the harm caused by racial stereotypes, including the pickaninny caricature. Efforts to address and rectify these historical injustices have included educational initiatives, the removal of offensive imagery from public spaces and products, and a broader societal shift towards recognizing and celebrating the dignity and humanity of all children, regardless of race. The term pickaninny is now largely recognized as an offensive racial slur, and its use is generally condemned.

See Also

• Stereotypes of African Americans
• Minstrel show
• Racism in the United States
• Colonialism

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