Things Only People From The South Will Understand

Sweet Tea is a Way of Life

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In the South, sweet tea isn't just a beverage; it's a cultural cornerstone. You'll learn the precise ratio of sugar to tea leaves, and woe betide anyone who serves unsweetened tea! Every gathering, from picnics to weddings, revolves around a pitcher of this amber nectar. It's not just a drink; it's a symbol of hospitality and a taste of home.

Southern Hospitality is Real

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You'll quickly understand that the saying "Southern hospitality" is no mere cliché. Southerners have a knack for making strangers feel like family, and they'll always offer you a glass of that sweet tea. From warm greetings to open invitations to their homes, you'll experience genuine kindness wherever you go. It's a welcoming embrace that leaves a lasting impression.

Football is a Religion

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College football, in particular, reigns supreme. Whether you're a Crimson Tide fan or a devoted Auburn supporter, Saturdays are all about the game. Tailgating becomes a ritual, and the stadiums become hallowed ground. It's not just about the sport; it's about community, tradition, and unbridled enthusiasm that sweeps through the South like a tidal wave of team spirit.

The Proper Way to Cook Grits

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For Southerners, grits are a sacred dish. You'll discover the secret to creamy, buttery grits that melt in your mouth. The key is slow cooking and stirring with love. Whether served with shrimp, cheese, or simply a pat of butter, grits become more than a side; they become a comforting hug in a bowl.

Mosquitoes Are a Force to Be Reckoned With

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In the South, mosquitoes are practically a separate species. You'll understand the importance of bug spray, citronella candles, and porch screens. They're not just pesky insects; they're an endurance test. Your battle scars will be the itchy reminders of summer nights spent outdoors.

The Art of Biscuit Making

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There's an art to crafting tender, flaky biscuits. You'll soon know how to mix the dough just right and how to achieve that golden-brown crust. Biscuits are more than a side; they're a canvas for culinary creativity. Slather them with butter and honey for breakfast or use them to mop up gravy at dinner. Perfect biscuits are a badge of Southern honor.

Pronouncing Pecan Properly

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Is it pee-can or puh-kahn? You'll quickly learn the correct pronunciation and the heated debates that surround it. While the pronunciation may vary, the love for pecan pie remains constant. Whether you say it with a Southern drawl or a Northern twang, a slice of pecan pie is a slice of heaven.

Mardi Gras Isn't Just in New Orleans

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Mardi Gras is celebrated all over the South, and each region has its unique traditions and flair. From Mobile, Alabama's MoonPie madness to the vibrant parades of Baton Rouge, you'll realize that Mardi Gras is a time when the South turns into a riotous sea of colors, masks, and beads.

You Can Fry Anything

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From chicken to Oreos to pickles, Southerners have a knack for deep frying just about anything — and it's delicious! Deep frying is a culinary adventure that knows no bounds in the South. You'll learn that frying isn't just a cooking method; it's an art form that transforms ordinary foods into crispy, golden treasures.

Southern Accents Are Diverse

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You'll discover that Southern accents vary greatly, from the soft drawl of Georgia to the twang of Texas. And yes, they're proud of their accents. Every drawl, lilt, and cadence tells a story of a Southern upbringing. You'll find that accents are like fingerprints, unique and a source of regional pride.

Southern Sayings Confound the Uninitiated

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Phrases like "bless your heart" and "fixin' to" take on a whole new meaning in the South. You'll decode these colorful expressions in no time. "Bless your heart" can be a term of sympathy or a subtle way of saying, "You have no idea." And when someone says they're "fixin' to" do something, you'll know they're getting ready for action.

Boiled Peanuts Are a Snack Staple

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You'll learn to love — or at least appreciate — the unique taste and texture of boiled peanuts, a Southern snack tradition. Boiled peanuts may seem strange at first, but soon, you'll crave their salty, earthy goodness. Whether you like them hot and spicy or mild and tender, they're a Southern snack worth trying.

Gumbo and Jambalaya Are Not the Same Thing

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You'll come to appreciate the nuanced differences between these two beloved Louisiana dishes, each with its own rich history. Gumbo is a flavorful stew, while jambalaya is a rice dish with a kick. You'll learn to savor the rich, spicy heritage of Creole and Cajun cuisine.

Shrimp and Grits Can Be a Work of Art

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This Southern classic can be a simple breakfast or an exquisite dinner. You'll savor the flavors and textures that make it a standout. From the succulent shrimp to the creamy grits and a variety of delicious toppings, shrimp and grits are like a canvas for culinary creativity in the South. Each plate is a masterpiece waiting to be devoured.

Porch Sitting is a Sport

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Southerners have perfected the art of porch sitting. It's a time for sippin' sweet tea, catching up with neighbors, and watching the world go by. On porches adorned with rocking chairs, you'll experience the beauty of slow living — a time to unwind, share stories, and appreciate life's simple pleasures.

Proper Use of "Y'all"

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"Y'all" isn't just a word; it's a way of life. You'll learn to wield it with precision and charm. It's a versatile term that can refer to one person or a group, making it the cornerstone of Southern communication. Mastering the art of saying "y'all" with warmth is an initiation into Southern linguistics.

Heat and Humidity are Inescapable

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You'll understand why the term "Southern summer" is synonymous with sweltering heat and oppressive humidity. AC becomes your best friend. The South doesn't just experience summer; it embodies it with a fierce embrace of sunshine and sultry warmth. You'll find yourself seeking shade and dreaming of ice-cold lemonade.

Southern Food is Soul Food

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From collard greens to fried chicken, you'll come to appreciate the deep-rooted traditions and flavors of Southern cuisine. Every bite tells a story of generations past. Southern food isn't just nourishment; it's a journey through history, a celebration of cultural fusion, and a testament to culinary creativity.

Whiskey is More Than a Beverage

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In the South, whiskey is a way of life, and bourbon is king. You'll become versed in the fine art of whiskey sippin'. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails, whiskey isn't just a drink; it's an elixir that warms the soul and fosters camaraderie around a well-worn bar.

Grit and Graciousness Go Hand in Hand

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Southerners are known for their strength in adversity and their unwavering politeness. You'll admire their grace under pressure. The South's history is marked by resilience, and its people embody a blend of determination and courtesy that's as comforting as a warm biscuit.

Monograms Are Everywhere

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From clothing to home decor, monograms are a Southern signature. You'll soon learn to embrace the art of personalization. Monograms add a touch of elegance and individuality to everything, from embroidered handkerchiefs to monogrammed linens. It's a way of saying, "This is uniquely mine."

Kudzu Takes Over Everything

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You'll witness the relentless march of kudzu, a vine that seems determined to conquer the South, one tree at a time. Kudzu, often called "the vine that ate the South," is both a marvel and a menace. It drapes the landscape, transforming the Southern scenery and serving as a reminder of nature's unstoppable force.

Biscuits and Gravy Are Breakfast Bliss

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You'll wake up to the heavenly aroma of fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy — a breakfast tradition worth savoring. Biscuits and gravy aren't just a meal; they're a comfort food symphony that starts your day with a chorus of flavors. The flakiness of the biscuits and the savory richness of the gravy combine to create a harmonious morning ritual.

"Ma'am" and "Sir" are Essential Courtesies

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Respect is paramount in the South, and addressing your elders with "ma'am" and "sir" is a sign of good manners. These simple words convey not only politeness but also a deep-seated respect for age and wisdom. They're the verbal foundation of Southern civility, a nod to traditions that endure.

Fireflies Light Up the Night

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You'll be enchanted by the mesmerizing dance of fireflies on warm Southern summer evenings. These little bioluminescent wonders transform the night into a magical spectacle. Catching them in jars, watching them flicker in the darkness — it's a cherished Southern pastime that brings out the child in everyone.

Tornado Warnings Are Part of Life

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Living in Tornado Alley, you'll quickly learn the importance of keeping an eye on the weather and having a safe spot to hunker down. Tornadoes are a formidable force of nature in the South, and the roar of sirens and the urgency of seeking shelter are constant reminders of Mother Nature's power.

The Tradition of Sunday Suppers

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Sunday suppers are a cherished tradition for many Southern families, where food, family, and fellowship take center stage. It's a weekly gathering where generations come together over a feast that might include fried chicken, collard greens, and peach cobbler. It's more than a meal; it's a celebration of togetherness.

Confederate History Is Controversial

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The legacy of the Confederacy is a complex and contentious issue in the South, and you'll navigate conversations about it with care. Symbols and statues associated with the Civil War era can evoke strong emotions. It's a conversation that encompasses historical reflection, identity, and the ongoing pursuit of unity.

Southern Music Has a Rich Tapestry

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You'll delve into the diverse musical heritage of the South, from blues and country to gospel and bluegrass. Music in the South is a living, breathing entity. It's the soulful sound of a blues guitar, the twang of a country fiddle, and the joyous harmonies of gospel choirs. It's a reminder that music is the heartbeat of Southern culture.

Southern Pride Runs Deep

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Above all, you'll come to understand that Southern pride is a powerful force rooted in a deep love for the land, traditions, and people of the South. It's a pride that transcends stereotypes and acknowledges the region's complexity. It's a pride that says, "I am Southern, and I am proud of it."

A woman in South Carolina actually still received checks for the Civil War

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A woman named Irene Triplett actually received monthly checks at around $73 dollars as a pension payment from the Department of Veterans Affairs, even though the Civil War ended over 100 years ago. She was the only living person to still be receiving these checks until she passed away at the age of 90.

The island full of monkeys!

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Sorry folks, only monkeys are allowed on this island in South Carolina - and this isn't just because they want to be left in peace. The monkeys were actually sent to the empty island as quarantine because they'd caught Herpes B. There's now around 3,000 monkeys on Morgan Island.

The Amish beach resort

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Did you ever wonder where Amish people go on vacation, if at all? In Florida, there's actually an Amish beach resort named Pinecraft, and Amish families have been vacationing there for close to 100 years. There are even special buses Amish people outside of the state can use to get there!

Did you know you couldn't get a tattoo in South Carolina until 2004?

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It was actually illegal to get a tattoo in South Carolina before 2004, so if you wanted any ink, you had to travel out of state to get it! Once tattooing was made legal, it didn't take long for tattoo parlors to pop up very quickly, with over 100 opening up in the first ten years.

Georgia is home to the largest drive-in restaurant in the world

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If you like fast food, then Georgia is where you need to go. This southern state houses the largest drive-in restaurant in the world: the Varsity restaurant, found in Atlanta. It's been open since 1928, and holds the world record for largest drive-in, which equals space for around 600 cars!

North Carolina has the largest number of American Idol finalists

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If you want to go where the talent is, apparently that's North Carolina - because the state happens to be the biggest producer of finalists on American Idol than any other state in the US. The next best state for this kind of talent is Alabama, another southern state showing off its talent!

Forget Monkey Island - how about this island full of horses?

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If monkeys aren't your thing, how about an island filled with wild horses? On Cumberland Island off the coast of Georgia, every horse you can find is wild and roaming wherever they please. You can actually visit this island - unlike the monkey one - but only a certain amount of visitors are allowed at a time.

There were cannonballs under the sidewalks in Alabama

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In 2015, a bunch of cannonballs from the Civil War era were found at the University of Alabama by construction workers, resulting in a bomb squad being called out to check everything was safe. During the search, there were a whopping 10 cannonballs that had just been lying under the sidewalk!

The Tennessee-Georgia border was once home to a bar

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Everybody loves those places where you can put one foot in one state and your other foot in another - and with the Patrick's Pub and Grill, you could be in Tennessee and Georgia in a matter of seconds. The pub was technically located in both of these states - that is, until it closed in 2015.

The peaches from South Carolina

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Interestingly, Georgia is known as the Peach State in the south, when it's actually South Carolina that produces the most peaches. South Carolina actually sees around three times more peaches than Georgia does during a harvest. To make it more interesting, it's California overall that produces the most peaches in the US!

You can find a mini version of the Washington Monument in Mississippi

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If you can't get to Washington to see the real deal, never fear - there's a miniature version in Mississippi you can visit instead! This smaller replica of the monument is found in Ridgeland, Mississippi, and it actually has a purpose - it's a cell phone tower, with the monument built around it to make it more aesthetically pleasing.

Make sure not to curse on Myrtle Beach!

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You can get hit with a hefty fine or jail time for cursing on Myrtle Beach in South Carolina - so if you're planning on traveling there, you better leave your potty mouth at home. If you're found to be swearing on the beach, you can get a fine of up to $500, or even be held in jail for up to 30 days!

You can find shrimp at the top of Stone Mountain

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At the famous Stone Mountain in North Carolina, you can actually find live shrimp right at the top of it - and that's because there are small pools of water there where shrimp have been found during the summer. At around 1,683 feet above sea level, that's the last place you'd expect to see shrimp thriving!

The Mississippi town that was haunted by a hair-stealer...

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In Pascagoula, Mississippi, there was once a very specific intruder reported known as the 'Phantom Barber', on account of it apparently stealing hair. There were many reports of home invasions where the person responsible would steal locks of people's hair. No one was actually found guilty of the strange occurrences, and they mysteriously stopped!

The capital of Tennessee was Kingston for only 24 hours

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The capital of Tennessee is Nashville, famously, but did you know it was once Kingston? And it was Kingston for only a day, at that? This was a result of the Tellico Treaty of 1805. The Cherokee nation asked for Kingston to be the capital, and the settlers agreed. But the Cherokees failed to specify for how long.

You best make sure you get the right Peachtree Street

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Yes, we're back with the peaches again! In the state of Atlanta, there are around 71 streets that are called Peachtree (and for a state that doesn't really have many peach trees, nobody really knows why). So if you say Peachtree Street, be sure you don't mean any of the other 70.

They welcome UFOs in South Carolina

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There's an unofficial welcome center for extra-terrestrial visitors in the state of South Carolina, created by a resident of the state, Jody Pendarvis. And we're not just talking about a big painted 'welcome' sign - it's an Airbnb for aliens, complete with toilet and air conditioning!

The mini replicas of famous religious sites you can find in Alabama

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If you live in Alabama and don't fancy traveling around the world anytime soon, the good news is you can find around 150 mini replicas of the world's most famous religious sites and structures. At St. Bernard Abbey, you can find replicas of places like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Great Wall of China - all made by a Benedictine monk!

The left arm of Stonewall Jackson is buried in Virginia

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A key player in the American Civil War, Stonewall Jackson was accidentally shot by his own men and ended up having his left arm amputated. In case you were interested in lost limbs of famous people, the arm is actually buried in Ellwood Manor cemetery, while the rest of him is buried 100 miles away!

Louisiana's Cities of the Dead

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One of the most important things to know about the south has to be the famous Cities of the Dead found in Louisiana, where the people of New Orleans don't bury their dead in the ground but instead lay them to rest in tombs above ground - to the point where these 'cities' have now become popular tourist attractions.