How Southern Manners Are Changing
For centuries, some have lamented the erosion of the region’s distinctive approach to etiquette.
This is an article examining how Southern manners are evolving in the modern era. Throughout history, southerners have been known for their refined etiquette, such as holding doors for dates and giving up seats on public transportation for women. A young girl growing up in Tennessee learned that "Bless your heart" was often coupled with cutting remarks in private.
Etiquette was seen as a necessary yet challenging aspect of life. In the past, southern manners were heavily influenced by social hierarchies and racial attitudes. For example, Black southern women were often expected to provide domestic care, including tending to white children. Even after slavery ended, this legacy continued as many white southerners were raised by Black nannies.
The article notes that the essence of Southern manners is a fusion of black and white attitudes. The rise of the internet and migration to the South has led to changes in etiquette, though Southern hospitality remains a core part of the region's identity.
Written by urgent.news from The Atlantic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
