Hottentot

The term "Hottentot" is an exonym historically used by Europeans to refer to the Khoikhoi people of Southern Africa. The Khoikhoi are a nomadic pastoralist group indigenous to the western parts of Southern Africa, primarily inhabiting regions of modern-day South Africa and Namibia. The etymology of the word "Hottentot" is debated, but it is generally believed to have originated from the Dutch, possibly imitative of the Khoikhoi language's clicks, which were unfamiliar to European ears.

The Khoikhoi are distinct from the San people, though both groups are often collectively referred to as Khoisan, acknowledging their shared linguistic heritage. The Khoikhoi traditionally herded cattle, sheep, and goats, and their society was organized into clans. They had a rich oral tradition, complex social structures, and intricate knowledge of their environment.

The term "Hottentot" has become controversial due to its association with colonialism, racial classifications, and derogatory usage. In the 19th and 20th centuries, it was often used in a pejorative manner, contributing to the marginalization and dehumanization of the Khoikhoi people. Consequently, many prefer to use the endonym "Khoikhoi" or specific clan names. Today, descendants of the Khoikhoi people continue to preserve their cultural heritage and advocate for recognition and rights.