Uncovering the Forgotten History of Canaigre: Mixed Race Identity in the Southern US

Canaigre (also spelled cane-gree or canegee) is a term that was historically used in the southern United States, particularly in Louisiana and Mississippi, to refer to a person of mixed African and European ancestry. The term is derived from the Spanish word "caña," meaning "cane" or "reed," and the French word "gris," meaning "gray."

The use of the term canaigre is thought to have originated in the 18th century, when French and Spanish colonizers brought enslaved Africans to the Americas. Many of these enslaved people were of mixed ancestry, having been born to African mothers and European fathers, or to parents of different African ethnic groups. The term canaigre was used to describe these individuals, who were seen as having a "gray" or mixed racial identity that was distinct from the more clearly defined categories of black and white.

Over time, the use of the term canaigre declined, and it is now largely considered to be an archaic term. However, its legacy can still be seen in the cultural and social dynamics of the regions where it was once used. For example, many communities in Louisiana and Mississippi have a long history of interracial relationships and mixed-race identities, which has contributed to the rich cultural diversity of these areas.