Politicians in particular like the theory of hard-working Indianans. Governor Evan Bayh used it on a quiz show ("Bayh Shows he's a Hoosier Quiz 'Kid'") where he explains the term "hoosier" as deriving from the canal builder, Samuel Hoosier, who "favored workers in Indiana and they became known as Hoosiers." With politics and state pride in his heart, Bayh continued, "We'd like to think it's synonymous with good workers."
In sum, "Hoosier" is a nickname and "Indianan" would be the proper terminology.
“In sum, “Hoosier” is a nickname and “Indianan” would be the proper terminology.”
Like I said, They’re CALLED Hoosiers not Indianans.
Thanks for you time. ;-)
One more thing.
If you live in Indiana and call someone your fellow “Indianan” you’re going to get laughed at.
From the same article:
“For well over a CENTURY AND A HALF the people of Indiana have been CALLED Hoosiers. It is one of the oldest of state nicknames and has had a WIDER ACCEPTANCE than most.”