88: Buzzwords Busted: The History Behind "Thug"

For the past five years, we have heard the elevation of the word "THUG" in negative political narratives; and for the past two decades, we've seen the word "THUG" embraced in the black and hip-hop communities. But how many people know where this term actually originated from?  It might surprise you. This week, we discuss the history of this buzzword and the cultural relevance today.

Resource mentioned:

(2013) What's a Thug's Life Looked Like in 19th Century India, CodeSwitch
(2015) The Racially Charged Meaning Behind the Word 'Thug'. NPR