Re: The Term 'Brit'

Donncha Kavanagh (d.kavanagh@UCC.IE)
Thu, 2 Nov 1995 15:44:05 +0000

The term Brit, as far as I know, first entered popular discourse through
the IRA's campaign during the 1970s and 1980s. "Brits Out!" was a popular
piece of grafitti during that period. Interestingly, it eventually was
appropriated by the British as a term of affection. For instance, Bob
Geldof, on the occasion of his honourary knighthood, was referred to as a
"True Brit" by, I think, either the Queen or Mrs. Thatcher. The double
irony is that he's Irish!

Regards

Donncha

Donncha Kavanagh E-mail: D.Kavanagh@ucc.ie
Dept. of Management & Marketing Tel: +353-21-902242
University College Fax: +353-21-273551
Cork
Ireland