
Carpetbagger
Negative Connotation
Originally used with a negative tone, implying exploitation after the Civil War.
He was labeled a carpetbagger for buying up land cheaply from those still suffering.
Historical Usage
Rooted in history; be aware of its Civil War and Reconstruction era context.
History classes help us understand the role carpetbaggers played post-war.
Modern Implication
Used figuratively today to describe exploitative opportunists in diverse contexts.
The media often cast politicians as carpetbaggers during scandalous elections. Compare with
AdventurerInterloperIntruderInvadeOpportunistOutsiderRenegadeTransient
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