The culture of Boston, Massachusetts has origin from the New England, which includes the New England accent known as Boston English. The city has its own unique slang, (the letter ‘r’ is pronounced as ‘ah’ for example; Harvard is said as ‘hahvahd’) which has become popular over the years. Also the phrase” world-class” is used more often in this city. Irish immigrants are often headed to Boston and so Irish influence is also commonly seen in Boston. Irish Americans are a major effect on Boston””s politics and religious institutions.
Many consider Boston as a high intellectual city. Boston takes pride in its universities and students. The legendary icon, Mark Twain once remarked, In New York they ask “how much money does he have?” In Philadelphia, they ask, “Who were his parents?” In Boston they ask, “How much does he know?
Sports are a major part of the city’s culture. Boston teams include the Red Sox in Major League baseball, the New England Patriots (who play in suburban Foxboro) in the National Football League, the Boston Celtics in the National Basketball Association, and the Bruins in the National Hockey League. Boston sports fans are known for their knowledge of Red Sox history. Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, is the oldest ballpark in the Major League and holds a special status among baseball fans.
Speaking of etiquette, the Bostonians have known for their etiquette and manners for many years. There are travel etiquettes, drinking etiquettes, talking etiquettes and even parking etiquette. Most of the people in this city use the subways and other public transportation for commute and travel. So travel etiquettes are very important here. In Boston when you see a chair/garbage can in a parking spot, it is better to leave that spot alone as it warns that it has been reserved by someone, failing to do so, would not guarantee the wellness of your vehicle. It is an unwritten rule.
Within this vast culture, there exist a number of sub-cultures. The neighborhoods are often ethnic or tied to a group of people or a way of life-South Boston is Irish Catholic and working class; Roxbury is highly Dominican and black; the North End still retains its Italian heritage; the South End is bohemian and so on. But other sub-cultures also represent the many common interests, such as sports, the arts and theater and the large student population. The city, by the way, is where JFK got his start, representing it in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Today, Bostonians tend to be reserved – some would say downright chilly – but they can be friendly and helpful if you initiate the conversation. However, it is not advised to ask them to say, “Park your car in Harvard Yard,” just to hear their Boston accent. Boston is rightly called “Athens of America” for its culture.