Wasserpolak

Wasserpolak was name used for people living in Upper Silesia whose language was Silesian (mix of Polish and German language). German equivalent is "Wasserpolnisch", Czech "Wasserpolák" or "Vasrpolák".

In Silesia Polish, German and Czech language and culture influenced each other for centuries. Since 18th century importance of German language grew up and it started to penetrate Slavic dialects. The term "Wasserpolak" appears in 17th century and is used for Polish people living in Upper Silesia around Opole and Racibórz. Later its use grew up to include all Slavic people of Upper Silesia. Origin of the name is unclear (translated literally, it means "water Polish"). Since 19th century the name started to be used as derogatory term. This and events of World War II made the it archaic and unused now.