9 Stereotypes About Pennsylvania That Need to Be Put to Rest – Right Now

Here are nine common stereotypes about Pennsylvania that need to be put to rest right now:

1. Everyone in Pennsylvania is Amish or Pennsylvania Dutch
   While the Amish are a well-known group in Pennsylvania, they represent a small fraction of the population. Pennsylvania Dutch is actually a misnomer—they speak a German dialect and are concentrated mostly in Lancaster County. The state is diverse with many different cultures and communities.
2. Pennsylvania is just Philly and Pittsburgh
   Beyond these two large cities, much of Pennsylvania is rural or suburban, with a rich variety of landscapes including farmland, forests, and small towns. The state offers far more than just its urban centers.
3. Pennsylvania is a conservative red state
   As a swing state, Pennsylvania’s political landscape is complex and divided. Urban areas tend to lean Democratic, while rural regions are more conservative, making the state politically dynamic rather than monolithic.
4. Everyone in Pennsylvania drives terribly
   Though bad roads and deer collisions are complaints some residents joke about, it’s unfair to generalize poor driving statewide. Pennsylvania has a wide range of drivers, just like other states.
5. The entire state is obsessed with cheesesteaks
   While Philadelphia is famous for cheesesteaks, the state’s culinary culture is far broader, including pierogis, scrapple, Italian food, and farm-fresh produce.
6. Pennsylvanians don’t care about culture or history
   In fact, Pennsylvania is rich in history, being home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and important Revolutionary War sites. The state invests heavily in culture and arts across its regions.
7. The Appalachian region is poor and hopeless
   Though some Appalachian towns have struggled economically, the region also boasts natural beauty, vibrant communities, and growing tourism centered on outdoor activities and heritage.
8. Everyone hunts and shoots guns
   While hunting is popular in many parts of the state, especially rural areas, many residents don’t participate, reflecting a broad range of lifestyles and interests throughout Pennsylvania.
9. Philadelphia is dirty and dangerous
   Like any large city, Philly has neighborhoods with crime, but it also has revitalized areas, vibrant arts scenes, thriving businesses, and a strong sense of community pride.

These stereotypes overlook the diversity, resilience, and richness of Pennsylvania’s people and places. The state has much more to offer beyond simplified caricatures, inviting a nuanced understanding of its true character.

Sources

(https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAmerican/comments/6jiuic/americans_whats_the_consensus_on_pennsylvania/)
(https://www.phillymag.com/news/2016/01/31/pennsylvania-pennsyltucky-philadelphia/)
(https://www.phillymag.com/2015/01/15/pennsylvania-gigantic-culinary-stereotype/)
(https://www.pinterest.com/pin/421860690087390732/)
(https://playmakersrep.org/debunking-amish-myths/)