I think the term "Kraut" is used affectionately by Germans when referring to themselves. My family is mainly English, Scottish, Dutch, and German, and a recent line of my family immigrated from Bavaria. It is not uncommon to hear the word Kraut used at large family gatherings.

I understand that Japanese were called "Japs" during the war, but it is still an offensive term. Japanese never have and even now do not refer to themselves as "Japs". So it is different from the use of the word "Kraut". Try calling a Japanese American "Jap" and see how they respond. It is not a good way to make friends.

My dad referrs to blacks as "colored", because in his day that is the term they used. Our culture now considers the term racist, and we don't use the word out of respect to African Americans because they don't like it. My father continues to use the word because "that is what we called them when I grew up" excuse, but it doesn't take away from the fact that it is disrepectful.

We called Vietnamese "Gooks" during the war, but we don't call them that now. It is offensive.

I don't understand why "Japs" is still considered to be acceptable to all you guys.

__________________
Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".