What is the origin of the phrase Indian giver?

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It is an old and very racist term that should never have been used at the time, and definitely should not be used today.

When European-ancestry settlers began to move into the American West and encountered native residents. Some of the white settlers claimed that when they took gifts from the natives, the natives later wanted them back, so the derogatory term "indian giver" arose to describe someone who provides you with something and then tries to reclaim it.

Not racist, just a cultural difference. The comment probably carried some bitterness indicating great disappointment from having the gift taken back. Racism is a notion and word that is used too freely with a hint of self righteousness.

First answer by JayKay. Last edit by Bubertl. Contributor trust: 23 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 22 [recommend question]

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