Why are Guernsey people called donkeys? Have you ever wondered why the people of Guernsey are fondly referred to as “donkeys”? Contrary to what you might think, it’s not about their love for the four-legged, braying creatures, but rather a nickname rooted in the island’s history and the tenacity of its residents.

The association between Guernsey and donkeys has its roots in the island’s hilly terrain, particularly in its capital, St Peter Port. The streets of this charming town are known for their steep inclines, making traditional forms of transportation impractical. Enter the donkey—a resilient and hardworking animal perfectly suited to navigate the challenging topography.

The practical use of donkeys in St Peter Port led to their dominance in the capital, becoming a common sight on the island. As these sure-footed creatures stubbornly traversed the steep streets, they became synonymous with the determined spirit of the Guernsey people.

But why the nickname “donkeys”? It turns out that the islanders, renowned for their strong-willed and steadfast nature, were playfully dubbed as such. The term “donkey” became a symbol of the residents’ resilience and refusal to back down, much like the determined animals that frequented their streets.

Over time, what might have initially been a tongue-in-cheek label evolved into a term of endearment. The people of Guernsey embraced their “donkey” moniker as a source of pride, recognizing the connection between their indomitable spirit and the characteristics of these hardworking animals.

So, the next time you hear someone from Guernsey being affectionately called a “donkey,” it’s not a commentary on their love for the animal kingdom but a nod to the island’s unique history, its challenging terrain, and, most importantly, the unwavering determination of its people—a spirit as resilient and unyielding as the donkeys that once ruled the steep streets of St Peter Port.