Virtually every social group in the world can be associated with one or more slang terms. Slang terms that are used to describe these groups are often interpreted in a derogatory way. However, in many cases the terms become a source of defiance and self-recognition. Among many other slang terms, Appalachian people are often described as hillbillies and rednecks. The two terms have slight variations in their interpretations, but are often used interchangeably, both derogatively and positively.

The term “hillbilly” began as a nickname, often derogatory, used to identify white people living in rural, mountainous areas that are out-of-touch with modern culture. The term was eventually used to generate revenues. Examples of this include mouthpieces designed to look like rotting teeth, commonly seen in Halloween costumes. Others derogatory adjectives used to describe hillbillies include uncivilized, backward, poor and inbred. That being said, the term is not always used in a negative manner. Many appreciate hillbillies for their independence and self-reliance. As time goes by, the Appalachian people have developed a sense of pride in the term. Springfield, Missouri created the “Hillbilly Ozark Medallion” to award dignitaries visiting the city, among the recipients is President Harry S. Truman. Pikeville, Kentucky is known for hosting a festival called “Hillbilly Days”. The festival began to celebrate Appalachian culture and raise money for a children’s hospital.

Similarly, “redneck” is a term that is often used to describe poor, white, working class farmers living in the rural areas of the south. Additionally, many liberals describe southern conservatives as rednecks, particularly liberals from the northeastern half of the United States. Keeping that in mind, people in the southern United States have not only become proud of the term, but also made it popular style among all age groups. This is largely credited to the numerous southern musicians and comedians that have made it a part of their performances.

While researching the two slang terms, I have concluded that hillbillies and rednecks are extremely similar. My research suggests that the primary difference is not in culture, but in location. Hillbillies are known for exclusively residing in southern mountainous regions. The location for Rednecks is far more general. They are known for living in virtually any southern, rural area. Moreover, I would say that hillbillies are a specific type of redneck rather than an independent group.