Cholo/Chola

Historical: From the Spanish caste system (Castas) of the 1600-1700s. The word "Cholo" is a RACIST and OPPRESSIVE Spanish term aimed at persons born of 3/4 Native American descent (Mestizo + Native= Cholo) and was considered by the Spaniards as one of the lowest levels of the Spanish caste system. It was meant to be cruel, demeaning, and derogatory. It was shortened by the Spaniards from the Nahuatl word, "Xoloitzcuintli" meaning a "monstrous dog", of (usually) mixed and disreputable birth. Persons in this caste were registered by Spaniards in segregated books for births, marriages, and death registrations in both religious and government registers.