Midget

Midget is a term that was historically used to describe a person who is very short in height but otherwise has normal proportions. The term is now considered derogatory and is not commonly used in medical or professional contexts. Instead, the term dwarfism or short stature is used to describe individuals who are significantly below average height.

History

The term "midget" was first used in the mid-19th century to describe short-statured individuals who were displayed for public amusement in freak shows. The term was derived from the word "midge", a small biting sand fly. The use of the term became less common in the late 20th century due to its derogatory connotations and the growing recognition of dwarfism as a medical condition.

Medical Context

In a medical context, the term "midget" was used to describe individuals who were short in stature but had normal body proportions. This is in contrast to individuals with dwarfism, who are also short in stature but have disproportionate body parts. The most common cause of dwarfism is a condition called achondroplasia, which affects bone growth and results in short stature, a large head, and short limbs.

Social and Cultural Context

The term "midget" has been used in a variety of social and cultural contexts, often in a derogatory manner. It has been used to describe short-statured individuals in literature, film, and television. The term has also been used in sports, such as midget wrestling and midget car racing, to describe events involving short-statured individuals or small vehicles.

Current Usage

Today, the term "midget" is generally considered derogatory and is not commonly used. Organizations such as the Little People of America (LPA) and the Dwarf Athletic Association of America (DAAA) advocate for the use of the term "dwarf" or "little person" instead. These organizations work to promote understanding and acceptance of individuals with dwarfism and to combat discrimination and prejudice.

See Also

• Dwarfism
• Short stature
• Little People of America
• Dwarf Athletic Association of America

Midget

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  Singer's Midgets - carnival poster
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  Charles Sherwood Stratton