What Europeans think of each other
This is a basic backgrounder for Americans, primarily, who might think Europeans do nothing all day but bitch about Americans. Don’t get me wrong—they do love bitching about Americans. But they also like bitching about each other, as well. Bordering countries, especially, have complex caricatures of each other, even when an outsider might think they’re more or less the same. The following is based on my numerous interactions with Europeans, having lived there for 4 years. Here’s a run down:
The French — Disliked by some Spanish (particularly the Catalonians), for being arrogant. One woman from Barcelona told me, “Come on, who really likes the French? Nobody!” The Swiss don’t like the fact that they have contempt for authority and are lazy. The Brits, of course, have the most mixed feelings about the French, though. One half the country hates them, the other half loves them. Those that hate the French tend to like the Americans, and vice versa. In the UK, they’re considered stinky, rude (they never line/queue up like decent people), and a bit yellow, based on their tendency to not fend off invaders like the Nazis.The French, in turn, dislike the British, look down on Belgians for being stupid, and don’t have much to say, in my experience, about Spaniards or Germans (oddly).
The Italians — Most of the stereotypes are positive, but mostly because of the food. Northern Europeans consider them lazy and flaky, and maybe incapable of managing anything right (mostly because of the 50+ governments they’ve had since WW2). One Dutch professor I had dismissed another Italian one, saying, “All the Italians care about are pasta and mamma.”Italians, in turn, don’t have strong feelings about other Europeans, but within Italy, the north-south divide is pretty strong. Northern Italians continuously complain that Southerners are lazy and unproductive, while Southerners complain that Northerners are devoid of culture or joie de vivre.
The Germans — Germans are considered industrious but uptight and humorless, by just about all the other Europeans. They know WW2 is a sore spot for them, so other Europeans will often mercilessly tease them about it. As much as Germany is considered an economic powerhouse, the vast majority of Europeans don’t really want to learn German or study there (or send their kids there to study). The food is considered uninspired, too, and only Berlin has some cachet among younger Europeans for its vibrant underground club scene. The most anti-German sentiments are among the Dutch and Danish, who just hate them from invading their countries too often. When German ask for directions in Holland, they’re usually given directions to the shortest way out of the country, or told “Give us back our bikes!”, a reference to the fact that Germans confiscated Dutch bicycles during WW2.Danes hate it when you pronounce their capital as “ko-pen-HAH-gen”, because this is the German pronunciation. Either pronounce it the English way (with “HAY” instead), or the Danish way, which is literally impossible to put down here.Germans tend to like their Western neighbors far more than they are liked by them, but they look down on their Eastern neighbors, particularly Poles. They, oddly, have some mixed respect for the Czechs, who have resisted German aggression.
The Scandinavians — Widely respected by most other Europeans, because of their high standard of living …and blond hair and blue eyes. However, within Scandinavia there are some persistent stereotypes. The Norwegians, Danes and Finns all think the Swedes are stupid and uptight. Norwegians are considered racist. Danes are considered more blunt than the others, maybe a bit more cranky, and the Finns are oddly introverted, even by Scandinavian standards. Except for the Danes really disliking Germans, and Finns really disliking Russians, they don’t really have anything against other Europeans.
The Belgians — Considered idiots by both the Dutch and the French. Belgians, in turn, consider the Dutch to be a bunch of cranky assholes, and French stuck-up.
The Dutch — The Dutch, like the Scandinavians, have an enviable economy and social order that’s admired by southern European countries. However, they do have a reputation of being self-righteous “know-it-alls” and very similar to their German cousins in terms of their rigidity. But they do not like any comparisons to Germans, and if you remind them that the Dutch national anthem makes a reference to the Dutch being “van Duitse bloed” (from German blood), you might quickly get the silent treatment. The Dutch are also disliked for being the biggest misers in Europe, and because of this they incur the wrath of the tourist industry wherever they travel. The Dutch have been known to stock up on water before they take their campers down to the south of France.The Dutch, in turn, kind of look down on just about everyone. Yes, there’s a bit of a reason for the “know-it-all” smart-ass reputation they have.
The Swiss — Considered extremely rigid, even by the Germans. Blunt to the point of being rude, the Swiss probably have the least likely reputation for being characterized as “friendly” or “warm”. Note that there is a big cultural divide between French-speaking Swiss, and the German-speaking Swiss. The former are almost exactly like the French, except having a blander cuisine and more respect for authority, the latter being more like the Germans except even more stiff, rigid and cranky. However, everyone knows Switzerland “works” so the fact that foreigners comprise 20% of the population (mostly from EU member states) should make this clear.Note that the German-speaking Swiss also speak their own variant of German, which sounds very strange if you’ve only been exposed to standard “hoch-Deutsch”.
The Spaniards — Honestly, very little antagonism against the Spanish or by the Spanish. No one really seems to dislike them, and they don’t seem to really dislike anyone else. (Yes, some Spaniards near the border to France don’t like the French very much) Not entirely sure why. However, God forbid you speak Spanish with a Latin American accent — there is still a lot of snobbery among Spaniards towards Latin Americans. Spaniards consider themselves white and European, and would be deeply insulted if you suggested they were Latin American of any kind.
The Greeks — Only nominally considered European by other Europeans, but the Greeks fiercely identify as European. Naturally, this is a huge irritant to Greeks.
The Poles — Not much seems to register about Poland and the Poles except that they’re quiet. They are a relatively big country (40 million people) so the supposed scare of being overrun by Eastern Europeans when a bunch of Eastern European countries joined the EU in 2005 focused in on the Poles. The Germans really don’t like Poles, and among Germany’s 9 neighbors, are disliked the most. Poland is considered a country of car thieves by the Germans. Really, the relationship between Germany and Poland is similar to that of the United States and Mexico, and often for many of the same reasons (differences in income, history of war, different languages, etc.).Poles really shore up their hatred for their eastern & southern neighbors, primarily Russia and Ukraine, although they don’t like Czechs, Slovaks or Lithuanians either. Oddly, they don’t really mind the Germans, and probably still fear them a bit — you never, ever hear jokes about Germans in Poland.
The Czechs — Considered a relatively bright spot of Eastern Europe by Western Europeans, but I think primarily because Prague is such a gorgeous city and a popular tourist destination. Czechs are a bit like Germans, though — a bit rude, blunt, and cold. Poles don’t have much good to say about them.
The Austrians — Considered a mix of the best & worst aspects of Germany and the Balkans, Austrians are considered laid-back but very nationalistic and racist. They’re said to be the birthplace of Hitler, but never came around to being fully apologetic about the Holocaust (unlike Germany). Neutral feelings from most ofWestern Europe, negative feelings from Germans (who consider them backwards, and not always the representing the best image of German-speaking people) and admired by Eastern Europeans (a throwback to the Hapsburgs).
The British – About half of the British would be really angry at being called European, so that should provide an apt starting point. The main beef with the Brits is that they’re considered the lapdog of the U.S., and are anti-European because the U.S. tells them to be so. They are considered polite, but maybe a bit two-faced (hence “Janus Britain”) and snobby. The Scots and Welsh are tolerated and liked, inasmuch as that no one really knows too much about them outside the UK, but the English are those that bear the brunt of negative sentiments among other Europeans. After all, London is in England.
The English also have a poor reputation in tourist traps, such as Amsterdam and Ibiza, for being loud-mouthed, obnoxious drunks.
The English, in turn, really seem to hate everyone. This is because it’s pretty hard to find an Englishman that has even, at best, neutral opinions about other Europeans (or Americans, or other nationalities). Europe is full of English expats, and the longer they live abroad, the more they seem to hate their host country. And yet they never seem to want to move home.
The Irish — A very small country, despite its exaggerated importance in Americans’ minds (just over 4.6 million in the Republic of Ireland) but considered polite and humble. They nominally dislike the English, but I have yet to meet an Irishman who really loathes the English. The sentiments towards the Irish and by the Irish seem to be positive, overall.
I personally don’t know much about how the Portuguese, Hungarians, Romanians, Bulgarians, and others are perceived, or how they perceive others, but if you have something to add, please do so in the comments below.
I’ll leave you with this poster I saw in an Italian office years ago, that helps sum it up in some ways:
In Heaven…
- the mechanics are German
- the chefs are French
- the police are British
- the lovers are Italian
- and everything is organized by the Swiss.
In Hell…
- the mechanics are French
- the police are German
- the chefs are British
- the lovers are Swiss
- and everything is organized by the Italians.
Update: Here’s my follow-up after this post got an avalanche of traffic and comments.
Another update: Here’s a related post on what Americans think about Europeans.
And another: 20 ways to slice up Europe.
- Excited
- Fascinated
- Amused
- Bored
- Sad
- Angry
Love the closing bit about Heaven and Hell. A place entirely organised by, gasp, Italians!
Comment by Thessauron — March 4, 2016 @ 4:35 am
There’s something that makes me a little mad here. Yes, I’m from Spain and I don’t THINK I’m white, I AM white, lmao. I look at my skin and I don’t see a dark skin whatsoever, especially since I’m super pale and I have blonde hair, like what? I don’t know why people don’t consider us a part of Europe… I hate that we once colonized south america, because now the whole world believe we look and speak like them, which is utter bullshit. And yes I despise them. Oh, well, you can’t escape ignorance anywhere. But yeah, don’t compare ME to those latin americans coons, thank you. I don’t even know what they’re doing commenting here, no one cares what you have to say 🙂
I love my Mediterranean neighbors though. When I meet an Italian or a Greek person they’re always really nice and we connect perfectly, like we’re old friends. I hope that the northern part of Europe would see us in a better way. But I don’t like that you think we are lazy, because that’s only the part of southern Spain. I live in northern Spain and I can tell you we work our asses off.
But yeah, I’ve been to the southern part and they really like to do nothing.
I have a couple of french friends who were born here and they tell me french people don’t really like us, so I guess no one really likes us. I’m not proud of my country though, I want Catalonia to be independent, so I don’t even know why I get mad. I guess I take it too personally.
I also have been to Germany and they’re really nice and polite. They also have a good sense of humor. So I really like the germans as well.
About the polish! I know a lot of polish people, and even racist people in Spain who hate catalans, call us polish for some reason. They think catalans are really similar to polish people for our sense of humor. So I guess I really like polish people. I’ve never been to Poland though, but I would love to.
Anyway, that’s all I can say about the other fellow Europeans, kinda disappointed about what they think of us, but whatever. Have a nice day, I didn’t know I wasn’t white, I guess I must be from Africa. Thanks for letting me know Europe! *sarcasm off*
Comment by Danae — March 4, 2016 @ 10:53 am
This was completely untrue. Practically everything. I cannot be bothered to waste my time justifying this but trust me its true.
Comment by Orla — March 5, 2016 @ 2:41 pm
ITS ALL FALSE STERYOTYPES WE NEED TO STOP WITH THIS BECAUSE IT IS SO UNTRUE!!!
Comment by Orla — March 5, 2016 @ 2:45 pm
I enjoyed your commentary and as a “non” European I found it to be quite insightful and for the most part accurate and gently humorous. I’m always intrigued by stereotypes, possitive or negative and stereotypes are the norm throughout much of the world. Here in North America, a land of many ethnicities and ancestries, stereotypes are very common and can even have a negative impact. For example, I am Colombian, so I am sure you can imagine the negative ideas that cross peoples minds when I mention I am Colombian, lol, but it’s human nature I suppose and all one can do is carry yourself as genuinely best as possible, so that people can make their own, hopefully good judgements about you AND your backround/nationality/ethnicity, as the cultural ambassadors that we always are.
I would also like to comment on the curious material set forth on your page from my own “non” European perspective, although keep in mind I am an Anthropologist who has studied Europe since childhood and have many great European friends, including a French Fiancée wity whom I love to discuss these funny subjects with. In that respect I’m not your avergae American, however I am also aware of general public consensus with regards to European stereotypes as well.
UK –
Known more commonly in the New World as “England”, The English are seen as petulant, stuffy, haughty, stiff and proper with a good sense for sarcastic and indirect humor. Historically the English were not very well liked in France for various reason including wars and competition and what the French consider an inferior puritanical culture to their own. However many French also have a secret respect and regard for the English when it comes to their accomplishments and rather bourgeois demeanor, which they can relate to well. The French also traditionally consider the British to be very prude, inhibited and puritanical, which is considered highly absurd and obtuse to the French who value liberalism and freedom of expression. Other Europeans have similar stereotypes about the English, although not quite as strong as the French, who just really can’t stand the British, lol. In Latin America, the British are looked very well upon and in some elite circles they have been traditionally emulated. In America, there is a sort of fascination with England for historical and colonial reasons. The accent is well regarded even if we consider it very funny. I think the difference in speech is so great that it does cause one to feel like we are two quite distinct cultures and that generally the British are somehow superior or more intelligent than Americans.
France –
I believe there is quite a departure from the French stereotype and the true French mentality. For outsiders looking in, even by close neighbors, the French are considered snobish and arrogant. This is the common theme about the French and while there is a small degree of truth to this, I find the French to be quite warm and friendly. After many years of experience, my personal assessment is that the French are : Philosophical, cautiously opinionated, careful not to offend others, idealists, optimists, gentle natured, highly protective of their country and culture, arrogant and self-righteous when it comes to FOOD, oh my goodness, DO NOT attempt to argue with a Frenchman about how a dish should be prepared, lol. The French above all consider themselves the ambassadors of all Europe and are very proud of being European. They generally love their European neighbors and have a very open and possitive demeanor towards other cultures and countries in general. They are careful not to offend other cultures (except for the Brittish of course, and more recently also Americans, who in their eyes are a devolved species of British peasantry) yet they are also quite arrogant about French and European superiority when comparissons are being made. They do have quite a few stereotypes about other Europeans, but they are pretty light hearted and general.
They love Italians and admire them in the Arts, but there is also something of a competitiveness and slight condescension due to mostly economic superiority. The French also have a secret passion for the Spanish, but also consider themselves to be slightly better than them and for the same reasons as the Italians. France never really engaged in a direct war with either Spain or Italy, so they are considered friendly neighbors and somewhat distant cousins. The French don’t have many great things to say about Germans, but also admire them as fellow Europeans for their accomplishments in the Arts, Industry, Finance and Science, respecting their great work ethic, while disparaging their harsh language and rigid ways. The Swiss are considered to be ‘Ploucs’ just like Belgians. In other words they are unsophisticated farmerfolk with no panache or sense of humor, making tic toc clocks and following stupid rules. Not really a great opinion of the Swiss actually. Belgians are a source of humor, but not really feelings of any hostility. the Dutch are much like Germans in many ways and share many of the same characteristics. Eastern Europeans are Polka Dancing Potato Farmers, Portuguese are farmers and house maids, Austrians are admired in the Arts and Scandinavians are cold, boring and introverted. Oh and they make great furniture!
Italians –
Italians are some of the best loved people in the world. Perhaps it’s their rich history, or their delicious good, or their great artist, or their lovely language, or just their zesty personality, but atany rate it’s hard to find an Italian hater or a country that despises Italy. The United States is no exception and due to a large amount of once immigrants from Italy, there is a great following here for all things Italian (even if they’re not the most authentic versions), I personally find Italians to be quite humorous and expressive by European standards. It’s almost like they don’t fit in with the rest of Europe, like they were planted there by some free spirited tribe of art loving maniacs and clandestine thugs. LoL.
Spain –
Spain has a reputation for fiesta under the sun and siesta for many peolple, an image that was popularised in the 20th century by Hollywood, which due to it’s location is more based on Mexican culture than actual Spanish culture) and it is unfortunate because As someone who has studied Spain for quite some time now, I can tell you that my own personal opinion of Spain is resoundingly quite différent! To me (and to most Latin Americans) Spaniards are characterized by being strict, unwaiveringly rigid and extreme, proud and upright, harsh and disciplinarian, dark, perverse and humorless, hard, harsh and very bold. They are almost the opposite of the French who are soft and gentle. Spaniards are bold and direct. They are also hard workers in my opinion, eventhough nowaday Spaniards are much more given to leisure and relaxation than they once were due to prevailing attitudes about European lifestyle and mentality based loosely on the French model. My grandfather is from Spain and emigrated to Colombia in the 1920’s, a true Spaniard in the sense that he is a fervent Catholic, a rigid and strong worker, outgoing and a very bold/brave man. This is my personal opinion of Spaniards and the opinion from most Latin Americans as well. French people seem to know this as well, stating that the Spanish are austere, proud, harsh and bold!
In my following post I will cover Germany, Portugal, Eastern Europe, the Balkans and Scandinavia..
Comment by Felipe Montiel — March 11, 2016 @ 12:59 pm
Right, the Dutch only like the Germanic people, the rest is trash, France Spain are only good to go on holliday because of the sun, the Germans, Belgians and Scandinavian are OK. The Brits and the Irish are drunks, but OK. Poles, hungarians and other eastern countries should be kicked out of the EU.
Best regards from the little, rich, country at the North Sea.
Comment by Jan — March 18, 2016 @ 3:04 pm
People who grouse about stereotypes are the ones who swallow them whole, then project and expect the same of others. These opinions are pretty humorous, and bring to mind Michael Caine’s truculence in Austin Powers. Trade-offs between efficiency and joie de vivre seem like a pretty common theme.
Comment by Steve — March 20, 2016 @ 7:19 pm
First of all I am refuting Danae comments. I doubt you are even a Spaniard by a few things you said in your comments. On top of that your first name would not be a common Spanish name given to a female at all. I would ask you to look at this list of spanish names…http://www.behindthename.com/names/usage/spanish
I am a Spaniard and quite offended by your baloney and your racism. First of all where are you from Spain? I would like to hear your conversation in Spanish let alone any other language. Your first name is a Greek name, one that we would not use in Spain especially a Goddess? Come on?? Do you think we are stupid? I would agree with you only on one thing..and that is that we Spaniards to get along very well with Italians and Greeks as we share similar culture. And the Romans and Greeks did colonize our land as did the Moors.
As far as the words you used for the South Americans including Coon, would not be a word ANY SPANIARD would use. In fact, that is not a Spanish word and would be typical of a white racist from the South of the USA. Why are you trying to mascarade as a Spaniard? What is your reasoning? You are nothing but a racist trasher. Why do you not go and troll some other sites.
There were many other things in your post that I will not simply bow to share that proves that you are not Spanish at all, in fact you are nothing but an imposter! If you truly are Catalan as you say, I may believe you are part..simply because Catalan people are nothing but racist separatists and not Spanish at all! In fact many of you people do not even consider yourself Spanish. On top of that you made racist comments about Southern Spaniards. You are nothing but a troll. Why dont you go back to the rock you came out from under,
Listen and listen well. No Spaniard would say what you said about Southern Spain as well as Latin America. Many Latin Americans are 100 pure Spanish ancestry as their parents or grandparents or antepasados were from Spain. Latin America has many other European people. Like Italians, Czechs, Germans, French, Russians, Irish, English..why dont you tell them they are Coons? You are so stupid to post what you did..unreal! We Spanish people appreciate our brothers and sisters from Latin America, in fact in many cases they can have dual citizenship due to that they were once colonies and considered part of Spain..hello!!
You need to not only get a history lesson but also your head examined. Oh yes and 99 percent of all Spanish people are blonde and blue eyed..lmao…Why do you not pay a visit to Spain and take a look yourself. We are a mix of Mediterranean and some Germanic, Roman, Greek, Arab, Berber,Carthaginian, Phoenician, Celtic,Jewish, North African and sometimes so Gypsy ancestry. You need to see a Shrink..really pronto!
DailyCandor: Well, her IP address locates to Sitges, Catalonia (while yours resolves to Illinois, USA), so… It’s amusing to me when people apply the No True Scotsman fallacy to their own country’s racists and ignoramuses but not to anyone else’s.
Comment by Jose — March 21, 2016 @ 12:54 pm
@Jose
Just because you are a cuck faggot that believes we are arabs does not mean we actually are.
You are a disgrace.
Comment by Alfons — April 1, 2016 @ 4:05 am
Pff everyone hates belgium?!? and I thought the french and germans liked us :s
Comment by Lieselot — April 2, 2016 @ 4:49 pm
Englishman here.
Only recently discovered this site, and it’s a brilliant discussion. Hats off to the one who thought of it.
“What Europeans think of each other.”
If there’s anyone living on the Moon, would you like to have your say on Europeans ? Because everyone else outside of Europe seems to be having their say, so come on and join in.
No only kidding. I love the input from the non – Europeans, especially the Chinese, Koreans and Japanese, all highly intelligent people. In fact I think it’s ace that non – Europeans are so interested in Europe.
First of all I would like to correct Anna , one of our English Roses. Page 11 post 25.
“We are a bit scared of the Russians”. I don’t think so, the British are scared of nobody, and I personally would fight anybody, whether verbally or physically who attacked or threatened my country.
Now for some positives of Europe :
Apart from us British, I truly admire and appreciate the Germans, Italians, Irish and Greeks. Us five peoples have contributed so much to the world, it is unbelievable i.e Inventions, Discoveries, Culture e.t.c.
Germany :
I’ve now been to Germany twice, and I am hopefully going back this December. The first time I was there I felt such a connection to the country, the people are extremely friendly, it was like a home from home. Three weeks prior to the second time I was there, I tried to learn German a little bit to show some respect for my host country, even though I couldn’t speak it fluently, you could tell that they respected the fact that you were at least trying. I even managed to order, to my surprise, a seven day ticket for the S – U – Bahn e.t.c.
So all you British that are travelling abroad, try to learn a little bit of your host countrys’ language. Anyway CHEERS Germany, can’t wait to go back.
Ireland, Italy and Greece :
I’ve never been to any of these countries, although I plan to eventually. As I mentioned earlier, great nations and contributors to the world. Hey, even though I haven’t been to any of these countries, history doesn’t lie.
Oh, and by the way Greece, don’t let anybody say your’e not European, you are totally 100% EUROPEAN. Anybody that says you’re not, are either smoking pot in the Netherlands or are reading the wrong map.
PORTUGAL( I haven’t forgot about you) , you are well loved, OUR OLDEST ALLIES don’t forget.
Now for some negatives of Europe :
Mainly this is for the British, 15, 000 Steelworkers are about to lose their jobs, my heart goes out to them families, this will also have a snowball effect on other industries i.e transport, being in the E U hasn’t safeguarded these jobs, with all due respect to other Europeans, I will certainly be voting out, and I hope my fellow British will do so too.
* Why do 99.9999 recurring percent of the countries of Europe (and the world for that matter) slag the British off, especially the English ? I don’t know, but a Greek person on this forum (many thanks mate), hit the nail on the head. This person said “those that despise you, have an underlying jealousy. ”
Post by EUROPEAN, page 12 post 25 “Pole living in the UK..” :
This person quoted, in so many words “Literacy low”, “Restaurants dirty” and “Definitely not heaven here”. “But the BBC Rocks. ”
My answer/s:
The education system in my country is totally f**cked up, we used to have a system called the 11 plus, every working class pupil took this exam, and if you passed, you would go onto Grammar School (Extremely High Quality of Education.) and from there onto University. But a certain prime minister abolished that system. Now working class British children just haven’t got those opportunities anymore
To EUROPEAN, who the f**k do you think you are you ungrateful c*nt, you come over to my country and start berating it and my people without knowing anything about us. You live over here, show some fuc***g respect, if it pisses you off that much then go back to your own country, hopefully you have, or ask your workplace for a transfer, preferably to the same shit pot you originate from, you fu**ing ringpiece, it’s people like you, the minority, that give the majority a bad name. Also stop eating our Carp will you, our coarse fishermen have been angling them for centuries as a pastime, you c**ts catch them, then f**king eat them. If you want to eat fish then go to a supermarket and buy some. By the way if you are back in Poland I’m sure you’ll still be able to listen to the BBC.
Post by BEGONA A.K.A SPANISH SLAPPER, Page 11 posts 34, 36 and 37.
INTRO : “Please welcome Miss S_PAIN, the in her head, most beautiful woman on the planet. ”
Quotes from Begona : “Typical ugly British”, “Ugly White Skin”, “Pink Pig” and “Red Haired”
How have we managed without you, gorgeous Begona, you have “Beautifully Silky White Skin”, that must have been f**ked into you by your Dutch husband, or my DAD, by the way your husband deserves a medal. But you have more qualities don’t you, you don’t have RED HAIR, NO YOUR HAIR IS JUST LIKE MEDUSAS. But I almost forgot, you said “When I was living in
your UGLY country all men turned his(their, you stupid f***ing mare) head (heads, again correcting you), yeh I bet they did turn their heads, IN THE F**KING OPPOSITE DIRECTION.
By the way I’m glad you did speak in your own language, because Spanish was easier to understand than your wank attempt at ENGLISH. I bet in real life you’re a right f**king MOOSE, I bet you’re really hanging.
Anyway I’ll finish off on this one with you for the time being, wasting my electric you see, in fact in the dark because us BRITISH are so ugly. If you’re country is so top snappin, then why the f*ck do your colonial subjects say “I wish we would have been under BRITISH RULE, we would have been a lot wealthier and happier.” (Fact).
Dutch / Belgian : Only been to their respective countries for one day at a time. Belgium, just got pissed ate loads of boxes of chocolates to make my teeth really bad, you know keeping up with the stereotypical ENGLISHMAN.
Netherlands, again just got pissed up, couldn’t find any chocolates there tough, you know just to make my teeth worse. Poser for you Dutch by the way, why is there so many UNION JACKS flying around in Amsterdam, when I got there I thought I’d missed the ferry I thought I was still in HULL, ENGLAND.
No but seriously, I’d just like to pay my respect to the great JOHAN CRUYFF, R.I.P . One of the greatest football players the world as ever seen.
That’s me done with Europe. But just going off on a tangent, this as been bugging me for sometime I’ve often wondered why the BRITISH PEOPLE / NATION as always been warlike, I mean us BRITISH have even had countless battles between ourselves, if anybody can give me some answers that would be much appreciated, whether it be a piss take or serious.
Cheers.
P.S Germany will you please stop f**king beating us in penalty shootouts. No only joking, congratulations on winning the World Cup, you worked hard and you deserved it.
Comment by The Englishman — April 3, 2016 @ 3:28 pm
Italians in general respect everyone, however we had problems with the germanic country since 2000 years ago. Never liked this guys, and never will (excep skandinavia, we like them, nice people).
Comment by Siko — April 14, 2016 @ 2:20 am
You cu*nts don’t know what your talking about, anyway Australia is the place to be, no close neighbors except kiwis, they’re no problem though.
Comment by Steve — April 25, 2016 @ 4:06 am
Stereotypes are just that: stereotypes. Generalizations that shouldn’t be applied as often as they are. Whether you`re from Asia, Africa, Europe or the Americas, it doesn`t really matter, we are all different from each other, even within our own country. We are all similar to each other, in various ways, as well. Point number one, we are human. We have all made awful mistakes, wise decisions, learned or discovered new things, been two-faced, or lazy, apathetic, ecstatic, moody, happy, sad…
In the end, we are all to blame, both for our qualities and perks as well as our faults and weaknesses. It`s these quirks that make us who we are, no matter where in the world you were born.
Throughout history, we have worked with and against each other, numerous times. Bonds were established, broken, regained, while others either remain broken to this day or have a bond stronger than ever. Yet, countries still fight for superiority. Because they have a complex just as big as the nations who are small and feel inferior next to them.
We brought war, deceases, genocides, weapons, famine, poverty, corruption, everything, upon ourselves. No side is right, and truthfully, we are all wrong.There is no checkmate to our battles and games. No correct answer to our questions. No real solution to our neverending problems.
We simply force our views upon others, shove opinions down each other’s throats, in hopes some will be able to digest it later. If our message doesn`t get across, we lock ourselves in our metaphorical bedrooms and only come out on one of two conditions: either they bribe us -not necessarily with money, but mostly love, praise, respect, dignity, etc- or we give in (because we either like them enough, or act like we like them and then stab them in the back, given the opportunity, OR we are simply intimidated by them).
But isolation is our one true fear. In times of need and desperation is where we actually forget our differences. Those times are rare.
We get weirded out, dislike, distrust, and fear some people because, just like us, they are human and thus, flawed.
When we generalize people, we are generalizing ourselves. That German businessman is cold and well-organized. But that businesswoman from Portugal reminds me of him, she`s just as cold and organized. That Japanese boy is an honorary student…but so is that American boy. That Italian man is a wanted criminal. But so is this french man.
It`s a neverending cycle of roundabout opinions told from different points of views. That`s what generalizations are.
Sure, they can be fun to discuss over, because people want to know what others think of their country, their people, and culture, they want to be viewed in a positive light, to be respected, loved…
But in the end…what’s the point? Why do we poke fun of others and ourselves, either we have, or not, a sense of humor?
Guess there`s no answer to this one, as well.
Comment by Ophelia — May 22, 2016 @ 10:28 am
I’m a Spaniard, and I have nothing against my latín american cousins, they speak nice Spanish and you can meet there excellent and nasty people, as it may happen anywhere
Comment by Víctor — May 23, 2016 @ 7:30 am
I am from Spain, and I am white. I don’t know your opinion, but we are white.
Comment by Mr.X — May 24, 2016 @ 6:06 am
Dutch here.
What you say about how Dutch view Germans was true until about 10-15 years ago. From WW2 until the 90s the general attitude was indeed negative. But nowadays much has changed and Germans are considered much more sympathetic. I would say the hatred has gone largely.
What you say about Dutch vs Belgians is in fact much more complicated. Of course we like to make Belgian jokes (“Belgenmoppen”), but on the other hand Dutch feel quite sympathetic to Belgium because of language, culture and of course beer. Belgians are in general more negative to Dutch than the other way around.
Comment by Ronald — May 29, 2016 @ 2:24 pm
That’s not true. Poles often joke about germans. Especially about their women. There is a stereotype in Poland that german women are very, very ugly.
Comment by Maggie — May 30, 2016 @ 8:40 am
Definitely the Norwegians are so racist. Never met so many people who generalize about every other ethnicity or race. Looking down on everyone. Have never been to such an ignorant place in my life. Will never go back or recommend anyone go there. They hate anyone who doesnt have white skin. Some of them even hate their more asian looking countrymen. Not at all the utopia they portray themselves to be. Disgusting
Comment by James — May 31, 2016 @ 11:46 pm
I enjoy reading this. But for some reasons, I think the person who wrote this observation is a jewish writer, probably American, considering that Americans are probably the only people, outside of Europe, who are allowed to travel (due to their passport) widely in the European zone. It’s a good research coming out of great curiosity.
One thing I want to add about the Brits is that they live as expats everywhere, yet hate their host countries the longer they live there because they are so lazy about learning about other people’s languages and cultures. This applies equally well to the Aussies and many Canadians (Canadian are more adaptable because anywhere is better than their cold winters). These people are never forced to really acquire a new language. When they move abroad, they find they could get away daily without knowing local language, and so they never try to put the effort into truly learning the host culture. As time went on, the people who were once friendly grew tired of them and the brit expats come to feel they are not welcomed anymore. So they start to become resentful, thinking that they are discriminate for being “outsiders”. Despite the fact that they lived there for years and put absolutely zero effort to learn about other people, their languages and their culture. Hence if you read expat blogs on the Internet, you will find these Brit/Aussie retards complains about the “local people” in China or Thailand, or wherever, not being friendly to them. Don’t ever feel sorry for them. They are the dumb men of the globe.
Comment by matt — June 1, 2016 @ 2:09 pm
Ophelia, are you an English language teacher ? Because if you aren’t you should be. I’ve read your post, and your English is virtually impeccable.Come over to England, and get a job as an English language teacher, you’ll be highly appreciated. Most of the teachers over here don’t know there arse from there elbow, and they’re always on strike.
Love from England, Ophelia. All the best..
Comment by The Englishman — June 3, 2016 @ 11:30 am
A Brit’s view:
Germany – We have a lot of respect for the Germans though historically there was resentment left over from WW2 in the older generations. British people like to consider themselves a bit superior to most other countries but the Germans make us insecure as they seem to good at everything, so we tend to use negative stereotypes about them to make us feel better. Probably the country that has enjoyed the biggest increase in popularity in Britain, which is not easy as we tend to dislike everyone, so fair play to the Germans. Please stop beating us at football though, that would be great.
France – We have a love/hate relationship with the French and from what I understand, they have a love/hate relationship with us. We share an enormous amount of our history with France and most kids learn French in school over here and have exchanges between the countries. Big cultural differences in humour and the fact that we both consider ourselves superior to everyone else leads to antagonism (we are both as arrogant as each other really). France is like an ex-girlfriend that we feel like we should hate, so we say that we do, but scratch under the surface and you will find affection for them.
Holland – Quite popular in Britain and no-one really knows why. We support their football team when they are not playing us and going to Amsterdam is almost a rite of passage for any British person worth their salt.
Scandinavia – Sorry to group you all together but that’s how we tend to view Norway, Finland, Denmark and Sweden (and Iceland?). Big drinkers, which British people have a lot of respect for – anyone who can hold their beer is alright by us.
Poland – Sadly a lot of resentment towards Polish people in Britain due to our media attacks on immigration and competition for jobs. Known as being good workers, generally in trades like building or plumbing. It’s sad as Poles I’ve met have been friendly, honest people but that doesn’t seem to be the overall view in Britain, which is rather negative.
Spain – British people of a certain vintage often retire to Spanish coastal towns. Other than that, views are pretty neutral – I’d say neither like nor disliked.
Italy – Probably the only country other than Holland that is genuinely liked by a lot of British people. We love the food, the language and the culture. There is a perception however that they are very corrupt and not particuarly trustworthy so the view isn’t completely positive.
Ireland – one of the very few countries that can out-drink us. Respect.
DailyCandor: For a nation that, as you say, seems to dislike everyone, it seems you all like all the European nationalities you’ve mentioned…maybe you do like your fellow Europeans and just reserve your resentment for those awful yanks only. 😉
Comment by Ollie — June 7, 2016 @ 4:20 pm
I think British people see the Yanks in a similar way as the French really, a love/hate relationship. Something you may have noticed about British people is that we will never openly admit to liking anything, we always say something is ‘alright’ rather than good. You were right when you said some Brits like the Americans (or say they are alright) and some hate them. I agree with your assessment of British people on the whole, your observations are broadly accurate. There is a bit of a tear in the UK between those who think we are better off with our European cousins and those who think we should be close to the US (and there are those who think we should sever all ties to everyone else and float our island away into the middle of the ocean so that we never deal with any foreigners, but these are not people who should be listened to).
I personally think Americans are ok but that we have more in common with our neighbours. I used to think that Americans were similar to us but having spent some time over there I was surprised at the deep cultural differences. I reckon we actually have more in common with French and Germans than Americans but there are many who I am sure would disagree. I think the fundamental difference is that all Europeans have shared centuries of tragedy and that has given us all a shared pessimism or subtle melancholy that is apparent in the US. You still have an admimirable optimism which I think to an extent defines the US and the American Dream.
Comment by Ollie — June 10, 2016 @ 1:05 pm
Quote from Orson Wells in the Third Man:
“– In Italy, for thirty years under the Borgias, they had warfare, terror, murder and bloodshed, but they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and the Renaissance. In Switzerland, they had brotherly love, they had five hundred years of democracy and peace – and what did that produce? The cuckoo clock.”
Having been an ESL teacher for the past 11 years, and teaching hundreds of both Swiss and Italian students, I can only say the above quote is spot on. I don’t think I have ever personally come across (other than may be a few Germans, Swedes and the speeches of Donald Trump) a more obnoxious, direct, rude, racist and generally unpleasant bunch of people than the Swiss.
The French Swiss are marginally better than the German speaking ones. The word “provincial” comes to mind, as they seem to relish living in small villages where their only real contact with the outside world is with foreign tourists (whom they tell me they despise for invading their peace and quiet). They particularly hate the rich Chinese who go over there to buy luxury goods.
Funny how a bunch of people in the middle of Europe, who actively helped the Nazis (historical evidence abounds) get away with calling themselves “NEUTRAL”.
Comment by Katie — June 11, 2016 @ 4:23 pm
As an Irishman having lived on and travelled around the Continent for many years, I can confirm the accuracy of virtually all the author’s comments, with the one noticeable exception of :
THE GERMANS: but they look down on their Eastern neighbors, particularly Poles. They, oddly, have some mixed respect for the Czechs, who have resisted German aggression.
When it comes to resisting German aggression, this is precisely the wrong way round. Take WW2, the Czechs gave in without a fight, it is the Poles who put up the toughest fight that a comparatively weaker country possibly could, whilst simultaneously being invading by the Soviets from the other side. The heroic doomed Warsaw uprising in 1944 (by the Polish resistance, not the Warsaw Ghetto uprising of 1943) had no parallel of any kind in Prague. The Poles also resisted Soviet domination more that any other satellite and basically brought down the Soviet empire.
So all in all, even though the Czechs may be fine people, it really is the Poles who have done all the resisting.
DailyCandor: No disagreement there.
Comment by Willyanon — June 11, 2016 @ 11:30 pm
I did enjoy this list. I would say, when you said half the British dislike Europe, I would disagree. I’ve heard people dislike some Europens or Americans. But I wouldn’t say that the British tend to dislike all of Europe. Me, myself, I’m jelous of Scandinavia and their high-quality life. Don’t dislike them for it, just a bit jealous. Can’t say I’ve met any horrible French people. I’ve never met a German but a few people I know have and their opinions were the same. They found them arrogant and generally not nice people. I can’t say I have any bad feelings for any country in the EU. I would say that the only countries I have any negative feeling for in the world are Russia, a lot of Africa, Thailand, I think that’s about it.
Comment by Gaz — June 12, 2016 @ 9:00 am
In response to @The Englishman, no I am not. I am simply an Art student (currently finishing high school), who is also occasionally fascinated with the world and its people. Drawing and animation, however, are my true passions.
Although I feel nowhere near qualified for such a job, your response was very appreciated, nonetheless.
Best wishes from Portugal.
Comment by Ophelia — June 15, 2016 @ 3:03 pm
Why when people talk about Britain does it always seem to be just about England? There is also Scotland, Wales and N.I I am fed up being lumped in with the way the English are perceived by others. Americans in particular seem to think the UK is just England,
As a Scot I have found that we are liked very much by other nationalities, we seem to be liked a lot better than the English.
Please stop describing people from Britain as English
DailyCandor: I certainly know the difference, but the English dominate because they’re 83% of your country’s population and your country’s political, financial and cultural capital, London, is also England’s capital.
Comment by Tracey — June 16, 2016 @ 6:33 am
I’m an older American with Brittish, Scots, Italian, & Greek ancestry. The United States is and has been ‘haven’ for many nationalities. Trouble arises here when immigrants refuse to let go of their prejudices from the’old country’ and expect our government to support them and their children with college advantages. And these same immigrants refuse to become naturalized citizens. They don’t pay tax’s that help support this Country, instead they continue to drain it dry from those of us that do work. They talk about open borders–Who is going to supply the jobs for all these people? Who’s going to support them when they won’t or can’t work? Who pays for their health care? Australia has the right idea! You show proof you have a job before you come to live there–what a concept, in other words your not a burden to society. Not bad for a country started by a collection of British, Irish, Welsh,& a few Scottish criminals!
DailyCandor: Why is it always the poorly educated who are anti-immigrant?
Comment by Diane — June 18, 2016 @ 10:50 pm
The only country that Poland don’t like is Russia. According to CBOS we like Czech and Slovaks nearly at most. We have cold relations with Lithuanians, but it’s because of nationalists on both sides. We aren’t scared of Germans, we trust them, they are defending our borders too. Also jokes about “Polish, Russian and German” are most popular in Poland.
This article is just piece of bullshit!
DailyCandor: Jeszcze niepewny siebie Polak…
Comment by mast313 — June 22, 2016 @ 2:46 am
I am not European or British I am English and reserve my right to dislike everybody especially the English.
Comment by barry lee — June 25, 2016 @ 10:36 pm
It’s not true that Poles don’t like Czechs. Polls say they’re both favourite neighbours to each other.
Comment by Petros — June 30, 2016 @ 2:44 pm
I’m from England, not my views particularly but we see the Germans s efficient and with no sense of humour, like robots. The Italians as mama’s boys and a bit womanly. The French as rude and arrogant. The Spanish we like a lot. The Dutch as cannabis smokers who live in windmills. Eastern Europe is seen as one big block and people fear them moving to England and ruining areas with rubbish and theft, Montreal distinction between the individual eastern European countries. The Portuguese in don’t think anyone thinks about either way. Greece we like but the people are seen as untrustworthy. Ireland is seen as our happy little neighbour abd very quaint and the people seen as unintelligent (hence all the Irishman jokes). Russia is seen as a mafia state and full of fascists and violent thugs and drunks. We like Scandinavia a lot. Those are the stereotypical views you hear regularly. And we know we are seen as drunken holidaying mobs in places like Spain and the south of France and Greece. France don’t like us, Germany we think like us but probably don’t. However I went to Malta and that was the only European country it was a benefit to be English in.
Comment by Joe — July 2, 2016 @ 12:28 pm
Virtually every comment here is another argument against the EU. Let it burn. Let everyone drown in their own shit.
DailyCandor: I have to say that I was a bit surprised that you’re from Germany. I thought Germans were mostly pro-EU.
Comment by Ghostman — July 3, 2016 @ 9:51 am
One very real thing that is missed here is the strong hatred for french from Germans and Italians sides
Comment by german-italian — July 8, 2016 @ 8:28 am
What?!?!?! The Europeans can think enough to realize that they’re all basically a bunch of idiots?!? Why couldn’t their ancestors have had enough brains to realize that……maybe then they would’ve tried NOT to spread their idiocy to India and other parts of the world!!!
Comment by ???????? ?? ?? — July 16, 2016 @ 3:55 pm
The EU`s system is flawed, that much is true. EU commissioners need to tackle the problem at its core before we have yet another country “exiting”. What`s wrong with Europe (and perhaps, the world in general) is not the concept of globalization itself, but some of its people, who seem to have very strict biases (specific mindsets) and who only think of themselves. We all keep each other from evolving, ourselves including. So when someone says, either they`re European or not: ” Fck the EU!” , they don`t realize how at fault they would be if this massive collective or powerhouses, one day, collapsed on itself.
It would affect not only the countries involved in the union (both rich and poor), as well as the rest of the world – and this would affect people economically, politically and culturally. Terrorism and crime nowadays, are as bad as it is. Imagine us all turning against each due to the end of a union and then having to cut ties with one another – borders get closed, countries become isolated, some people get deported (lose their houses, jobs,…) people become more intolerant, xenophobic, racist, backwards, et cetera…
The world is already as divided as it is, and each day we seem to be drifting more and more from each other. It`s sad, really, how some people just love watching it all burn.
Comment by Ophelia — July 18, 2016 @ 6:50 pm
How depressing to see how much us Eastern Europeans are looked down on as thieves, petty criminals, backwards. I find most West European countries more backwards than us (Romania here) when it comes to mentality. So many racist, xenophobic, entitled, arrogant and extremely ignorant people here in the West; it is shameful. I find it outrageous seeing how so many west Europeans consider themselves educated and above us E Europeans while having the audacity and daring to look down on us for being ‘uneducated’ all the while assuming off the bat that we must be shams and criminals. The hypocrisy is glaringly obvious, and it is very ironic to see that so many west Europeans think we are backward all the while they themselves exhibit the very traits they accuse us of.
Comment by AnnaEELady — July 23, 2016 @ 1:29 pm
And to contribute to the list:
Romania – Romanians are considered petty thieves, hackers, cheap unskilled workers and gipsy by majority in Europe. They are heavily looked down on. Truth is, the average Romanian is actually well educated, speaks medium to almost perfect English (or Italian/French/German), is relatively well travelled and dignified, has at least a university Bachelor’s degree, with the majority having a Masters degree under their belt; speaks at least one fluent foreign languages other than their mother tongue; very hard working (takes jobs very seriously, provided that viable job opportunities are scarce in Romania for a lot of educated youth).
Hungarians hate Romanians due to historical disputes over some parts of the lands that are now part of Romania. Romanians hate Hungarians because they won’t shut the f up about these disputed patches of land. Romanians hate slavic nations, particularly Ukraine, especially Russia, and to some extent even the Republic of Moldova. A common slur addressed to Romanians by slavic nations and even westerners is calling Romanians ‘gipsy’ – despite that the gipsies are a distinct minority in Romania and actually have no historical connection with the formation of the ethnicity of modern Romanians.
Bulgarians hate Romanians, too, although I am not exactly sure why (but I’ve been getting the impression that it is because of the whole gipsy thing again). Romanians don’t really think much of Bulgarians; there is little contact between the two nations.
Romanians love Italians, and like to assume that, as the Romanian language has been found to be the closest to the original Latin, many consider that Romanians are somehow descendants of the Romans, and thus, feel a kinship to Italians (although genetically, it has been proven that actually, Romanians have little to no admixture from Italy at all – not related). Italians effing hate Romanians, however, due to a widespread anti-immigration campaign that was led a few years ago against Romanians in Italy with a few rapes perpetrated by Romanian men, as well as a few credit card scammers, gipsies, etc.
So, the bottom line is, everyone hates Romanians, and Romanians hate everyone, save Italians. Many Romanians, however, exhibit mixed feelings about Germans, with more of them displaying admiration for Germany and Germans. Romanians hate English for being loud, disrespectful drunks who do not respect the cultures they visit or settle in.
Comment by AnnaEELady — July 23, 2016 @ 1:46 pm
As a Northern Spaniard (Catalan), from a region whose people seem MUCH more French than Southern Spanish (white, light-brown haired or blond), I can’t understand why do people always think of Spain, a country historically, socially, politically, economically and even geographically in Europe’s deep core, as something closer to Mexico. It makes me feel disappointed.
Comment by Ignasi — July 24, 2016 @ 11:59 am
I love Italians and Italy !!! that is all I have to say except I pray for Europe, whicjh I love, in her dark time !!!!
Comment by frances van siclen — July 26, 2016 @ 2:44 pm
@Ignasi
In core Europe, geographically spoken, to be exact in german-speaking areas, people don’t think of Spain as something closer to Mexico or of Spaniards as brown people. Only very ignorant people who never left their home would think this. I never heard someone saying this, never read it in our literature, didn’t get this picture in my spanish course and I wouldn’t understand this way of thinking myself. It must be what americans think about you, well and who cares about that?
Spain is very much core Europe, in its history, its contribution to culture, especially art. When someone says Spain I think about your great explorers, about Picasso, Dali, about your strong ties to Catholicism. Also great tolerance towards homosexuality, football-crazyness, nationalitic movements comes to my mind. Negative things people would probably think about you is lazyness and not speaking any language besides spanish. Its only, Spain gets overlooked a lot, you are not very vocal in political matters. Countries like France and Italy do better in selling themselves and are more ‘present’ in everything.
Greetings from Austria
@Dailycandor
Nothing about Hungary? :'(
Comment by Alex — July 27, 2016 @ 9:56 am
Ehm… Can you please delete the part in Austria were you say they are racists?! It is simply not true.
Although, the part about being a mix of germans and east/south europe countries is on point i would say.
Comment by Nevamind — July 29, 2016 @ 9:14 am
Actually talking about the Austrians, the Viennese are some of the most racist people I have ever met. Outside Vienna they are only marginally more tolerant towards “Auslaender”.
I lived there for many years in my secondary school years. I attended an international school. My best friends were an Orthodox Jew from New York and black girl. They both said they often got stared at on public transportation because they didn’t look like white, Caucasian Europeans.
We were once asked by an elderly lady sitting opposite my Jewish friend and I on a tram, “where are you from?” (in English as she heard us talking in English). My friend said “the USA”. She then promptly pointed a finger at my Jewish friend and said “No, you are not American, you are Jewish”. To which I replied, “you asked us WHERE we come from, not our religions !”
My friend in fact had a German surname and German roots. Her entire family had been wiped out in concentration camps in Germany. Her father, the only survivor, had been placed on a boat to England in the 1930s when he was only 8 years old and raised by a Jewish family in England.
In the UK we now have Brexit, but there is also have a very long history of tolerance and anti-fascism. People forget Britain’s significant contribution to wiping out fascism across Europe (including where it actually first took root – in Spain during the civil war). If fascism raises its ugly head once again, I know the British people will rise to the challenge.
Although I am not ethnically “English” (my family emigrated to the UK when I was a very young child) I still feel proud to be a British citizen and will never give up my British nationality. I lived in the UK for over 40 years and NEVER experienced the open racism that I saw in other European countries.
In my experience, having lived in many different countries both inside and outside Europe (I am now a permanent resident of Canada) and DESPITE Brexit, the UK remains the most tolerant place in Europe. There are many historical reasons for this (including the 2 world wars) but I will keep that for another debate.
Comment by Katie — July 30, 2016 @ 10:12 am
So funny article! And fun to read all your different comments (specially the ones who feel insulted). The article is very sterotypical, but also written with a lot humor in mind. So no need to get insulted! My impression, having been to most of western, middle and northern european countries, is that when all comes to all, most respect each other’s peoples. But there will always be teasing in-between neighbouring countries particularly sibling countries like Denmark-Sweden-Norway-Island.
Comment by Kolban — July 30, 2016 @ 4:38 pm
Chinese here, here’s my thoughts about the Europeans as a Chinese person.
British to me are seen as very gentlemanly and polite, but a bit hypocritical and have the tendency to look down on Chinese people sometimes.
French to me are arrogant but cultured people who made all the luxury goods for the Chinese.
Russians to me are the allies that I admire culturally, but sometimes distrust politically.
Scandinavians to me are intelligent and attractive people who know the Chinese better than the other Europeans.
Germans to me are very punctual and strict people who made all the good cars for the Chinese.
Italians to me are good cooks and good fashion designers.
Dutch people to me are the tall stingy people who speak very good English.
Swiss people to me are quiet, punctual, and clean but scornful people.
As for the other Asians here are my thoughts:
Japanese people to me are nice and polite people but unlucky because they have nasty politicians like Abe.
Koreans to me are hardworking and hot tempered people but suck at cooking because their food grossed me out.
Vietnamese people to me are cunning but good cooks.
Thais to me are happy go lucky people who like to eat sour food.
Indians to me are cunning and smooth talking people who make good software.
Singaporeans to me are smart but arrogant.
Comment by Liu — August 11, 2016 @ 12:02 pm
The stereotype and discription about all of them were spot on but more so the one about The English and the Spaniards!
Im Canadian of latin american background. So growing among other white canadians my whole life And living jn a country thats very diverse can help you view things differently than Europeans or Latin Americans.
I always found it interesting how Brtish people dont like assimilating in Europe and are usually the only Europeans that do not like learning other languages or cultures. So I understand why Other europeans hate them. In America and Canada you grow up as a child with the image of a British person being posh, but as you get older you kind of see them as trashy and closed-minded.
Spaniards OMG ! All they talk about is race and how theyre “white. they are like desperate it is so weird. They hate being grouped with Latin Americans for racial reasons usually. It is not uncommon to find silly videos on youtube teaching the public how “theyre white” and the comment sections all over the internet is filled with the same thing.
Ive also met many white latinos and white spaniards that move to North America and get angry when they are not considered ahite here and are put in a separate category, I feel like they have a hard time being categorized.
and their perception of “white” is different than ours.
If you are born and raised in Canada or America. We tend to classify as white those that a) speak english as a first language with no acents b) shares our culture c) if you are of an anglo background usually with a scottish or english lastname
if you dont share the above, you are not “white”.
Moreover , growing up in diverse countries like ours easily teaches you how to differentiate people based on their racial features.
like its not hard for us to tell who is of an italian, greek , portuguese or spanish background.
As much as Spaniards hate it, for one they usually are shorter than a brit or a nordic , thats the first give away, secondly theyre usually not blond with blue eyes, thirdly their noses are not the same as the noses of a brit for instance and lastly . Yes we know you are caucasian but you guys are not white-white like nordic people. usually, most southern europeans can tan because theyre mixed. They are naturally born with olived skin. White Americans , White Canadians and nordic europeans do not tan! They burn and turn red! This is a common thing discussed among white people here. You know you are fully white when you burn and not tan. Italians, Portuguese and Spaniards are usually olived skin and tan easily when exposed to the sun ! Due to all their mixes in their DNA
Comment by Ezra — August 11, 2016 @ 10:25 pm
They don’t tan, they stroke.
Comment by Steve — August 12, 2016 @ 8:23 am
Hello
I’m from Austria and I really like the idea of this forum, but I must say that I finde some content off these posts offensive.
Particular the first one. If the intention is to be satiric I’ll have no problem with these comments. But it makes the impression to me that some people, take these stereotypes and the generalization of peoples way too seriously. Which I find extremely worrying.
I think to seriously generalize peoples (and with that I mean quotes like: Italians are corrupt and lazy, or English are arrogant and anti Europeans) is actually dangerous and should be treated as a narrow minded way of thinking. Every country has a percentage of nice and awful, hard working and lazy etc. people, so it’s absolutely ridiculous to make these generalizations.
Yes there are cultural differences and also differences in the way Europeans think about certain topics, but I think we Europeans are not so different from each other.
I’m very open towards the many cultures of Europe, because I think they are a part of my identity and heritage. I can identify myself with all cultures of Europe whether it’s French, Spanish or Hungarian.
So I’m very pro Europe as you can properly already see, but I’m not in favor of everything the EU does. I’m in favor of a peaceful coexistence with respect for every European language and culture.
Comment by Felix — August 15, 2016 @ 4:42 am
Spanish people are quite racist though
Comment by tamere — August 26, 2016 @ 4:40 am