Amish Myth Busting: Separating Fact from Fiction in Amish Life
Why Non-Amish Are Called “English”
To the Amish, non-Amish people are known as “English,” their race or ethnicity notwithstanding. This term stems from their early days in America. Settlers predominantly spoke English, contrasting with the community’s German dialect. The name stuck, even as times changed. Despite this label, Amish people generally view outsiders with curiosity rather than hostility.
They maintain distance to preserve their values and traditions. However, interactions are becoming more common, especially in business and healthcare. Some Amish even adopt modern practices for practicality. The dynamic between the Amish and “English” reflects a balance of tradition and adaptation, displaying a unique cultural coexistence in modern times.
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