Independence Day. The fourth of July, in commemoration of the American Declaration of Independence, 1776.
Independents. The same as “Congregationalists.”
India. From the Indus or Hindus, a Persian corruption of the Sanskrit Sindhu, “great river.” By the Greeks this river was known as the Hindus, which with the Persian suffix stan gave the name “Hindustan” to the whole country. In the time of Columbus, and long afterwards, the Asiatic continent east of the Ganges was generally styled India. This accounts for such names as “Indian Ink,” etc., products really of the Far East.
Indiana. From the great number of Indians that overran this state in the early days of its history.
Indianapolis. The capital of the state of Indiana. Polis is Greek for city.
Indian Corn. Maize, brought from[from] the West Indies.
Indian File. A march in single file, as is the custom of the North American Indians.
Indian Gift. A reclaimed present. When a North American Indian gives anything he expects a gift equivalent in value, or else his own back again.
Indian Ink. Originally brought from China, but now made from lamp-black and animal glue in England. See “[India].”
Indian Liquor. See “[Indian Whisky].”