Wetback (slur)

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For other uses, see: Wetback (disambiguation)

Wetback is a derogatory term for an illegal alien of Hispanic descent. Commonly referring to illegal alien Mexicans, although applicable to all Latinos, who have crossed the border illegally, the term originated with those who entered Texas from Mexico by crossing the Rio Grande,^[1] presumably by swimming or wading across and getting his or her back wet in the process.

The first mention of the term in The New York Times is dated June 20, 1920.^[2] It was used officially by the US government in 1954, with Operation Wetback,^[3] a project where a large number of Mexican nationals were deported.

Wetback became a popular slur in other states with large illegal alien populations, such as California, Arizona and New Mexico, especially among those who were adversely affected, whether by crime, loss of employment, or supposed diminution of American culture, by the large influx of illegal aliens in the late 20th century.

An equivalent Spanish term, mojado,^[4] is sometimes used by legal immigrants and native-born Hispanic Americans as an insult to illegal immigrants. Another equivalent colloquial term for an illegal immigrant who crosses the border into the US is alambrista ^[5] or sudaca.

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