It is obvious from the content of the recent discussion on "rednecks," and other uses of the term in conversation in genealogical groups, that no one has done the historical research to discover the origin of the term. It is a descriptive term applied to a specific group of our ancestors, not a derogatory description as it tends to be used these days. Just as hillbilly described the political sentiments of the Scotch-Irish in the Appalachians (don't start the Scotch is a drink thread please, Scotch-Irish is what they called themselves), redneck describes the poor white English and Scots citizens who were sold to the plantations in the West Indies and the Southern colonies during the 1600s. Their poor fair-skinned necks burned red from the sun because they were not given hats for protection. In Barbados and Jamaica they were also called "Red Shanks" because, lacking stockings to wear with their knee breeches, their legs were burned a bright red. Neither means "ignorant" or "country" or any of the other demeaning uses to which they are put. I suggest that before cruel jokes are made, and derogatory responses fly, individuals learn what the terms really mean. I, for one, am proud to be a hill billy because it denotes my family as one that did not "bend the knee" to King James VI of Scotland, I of England, and who were outlawed for their belief in individual liberty and freedom. Hummmmm, sounds like the basis for the Constitution of the United States to me! Arthur L. McGinley, Ph.D. A Celt, lost in time. mcginley@intermediatn.net