Poor whites in Florida and Georgia are often referred to as "crackers" because of their principal staple food, which is cornmeal. The term "cracker" has a long history in the Southern United States, originally used to describe poor white farmers who would crack corn to make cornmeal. Over time, the term evolved to refer to any poor white person in the region.

Cornmeal was a cheap and abundant food source for these individuals, who often lived in rural areas and struggled to make ends meet. They would use cornmeal to make a variety of dishes, such as cornbread, grits, and hoecakes. These simple and filling foods sustained them through hard times and became synonymous with their way of life.

Today, the term "cracker" is often used in a derogatory manner to describe poor whites in the South. However, some individuals have embraced the term as a source of pride, reclaiming it as a symbol of resilience and survival in the face of adversity.

Despite the negative connotations associated with the term, the tradition of using cornmeal as a staple food in the South remains strong. Many families continue to cook traditional dishes like cornbread and grits, passing down recipes from generation to generation.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Southern cuisine, with chefs and food enthusiasts celebrating the flavors and traditions of the region. Cornmeal has become a trendy ingredient in upscale restaurants, used in dishes like cornmeal-crusted catfish and cornmeal pancakes.

Whether embraced or rejected, the term "cracker" will always be linked to the humble cornmeal that sustained generations of poor whites in Florida and Georgia. It serves as a reminder of the hardships and struggles faced by these individuals, as well as their resilience and ingenuity in making the most of what they had.

Sign Up