Words for women in Indian languages have not been picked up and misused by whites, probably because 'squaw' already was widespread, and some are difficult for whites to get their tongues around.

Yes, and ditto for a lot of Native words - ie the casino referred to above is on the Rama Reserve, home to the 400 Chippewas of Mnjikaning. Try getting the ole tongue around 'Mnjikaning'! 'Rama' is MUCH easier!

BTW Little Hawk, did you know that just about every day, hundreds and hundreds of international customers (mostly Asian I hear) are bussed, free of charge, direct from Pearson International Airport to the casino? Or that Casino Rama employs no less than 3500 people, a full third (1200) of whom are Native? That casino is truly a much-needed blessing for some, while being a one-way ticket to hell for others. For every action, there really is an equal and opposite reaction I suppose ....

Thank you all for all the chuckles and interesting historical/linguistic information on this thread.