#3: What do They Call People Who Aren’t Amish?
A captivating tradition has persisted through the ages and has been deeply rooted in Amish culture since their early settlement in the United States. The Amish affectionately refer to all non-Amish individuals as “English,” regardless of their racial or ethnic background. This practice originates in a unique historical quirk—the Amish, seeing themselves as true Americans, lacked a distinct term for those outside their close-knit community.
The moniker “English” emerged as a natural choice, mirrored the language spoken by their “outsider” neighbors, and has clung to their traditions ever since. Within the unchanging tapestry of Amish society, where tradition reigns supreme, this timeless label for outsiders endures, offering a fascinating glimpse into their unwavering commitment to preserving their way of life.