LAPLANDERS Meaning and
Definition
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Laplanders refers to the indigenous people who inhabit the region of Lapland, which mainly encompasses parts of northern Finland, Sweden, Norway, and the northwest coast of Russia. The term "Laplanders" is derived from the word "Lapp," which has been historically used to refer to the Sami people, the largest Indigenous group in the region.
Laplanders have a distinct cultural identity and are known for their close connection to the natural environment, particularly reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting. Traditionally, they have led a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving with their reindeer herds across vast, arctic landscapes in search of grazing areas. This way of life has shaped their unique cultural practices, such as traditional clothing, crafts, music, and a rich folklore.
Despite facing historical and ongoing challenges, including encroachment on their lands, assimilation policies, and prejudices from the dominant societies, Laplanders have preserved their cultural heritage and have made significant contributions to the societies they live in. Furthermore, they have often advocated for their rights, including the recognition of their land rights and protection of their language and culture.
In recent times, the term "Laplanders" can be considered somewhat outdated and sometimes even derogatory, as it has been associated with historical discrimination and marginalization. Using more specific terms like "Sami people" or "the Indigenous people of Lapland" is preferable in contemporary discourse, as it respects their cultural diversity and acknowledges the distinct identities within the larger Lapland region.
Common Misspellings for LAPLANDERS
- Laplandes
- kaplanders
- paplanders
- oaplanders
- lzplanders
- lsplanders
- lwplanders
- lqplanders
- laolanders
- lallanders
- la-landers
- la0landers
- lapkanders
- lappanders
- lapoanders
- laplznders
- laplsnders
- laplwnders
- laplqnders
- laplabders
Etymology of LAPLANDERS
The word "Laplanders" is derived from the terms "Lap" and "landers".
The term "Lap" is a historical and outdated name for the indigenous people of the Arctic region in Northern Scandinavia and Russia. However, it is now considered derogatory and insensitive. The name "Lap" originated from the Swedish word "lapp", which means "patch" or "rag". It was likely used by neighboring cultures to describe the clothing worn by the Sami people, who are the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland.
The addition of "landers" to "Lap" forms the plural version, "Laplanders". The ending "-landers" is likely derived from the Old English word "land" or "landa", which signifies "inhabitant" or "person of". Therefore, "Laplanders" refers to the people who inhabit or belong to Lapland.
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