How Southern Manners Are Changing
This article explores the evolution of Southern manners and etiquette in the United States. It argues that despite changing social norms, traditional displays of hospitality and politeness remain a core part of the region's identity.
Why it matters
It provides cultural context on how regional identity persists in a modernizing society.
For centuries, some have lamented the erosion of the region’s distinctive approach to etiquette.
Illustration by The Atlantic. Source: Harold M. Lambert / Getty. August 27, 2026, 4:39 PM ET Share Save This is an edition of Time-Travel Thursdays, a journey through The Atlantic ’s archives to contextualize the present. Sign up here.
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