re: How common is this Cajun term?

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I think a century ago this was the term used for chinamen working to build the railroads. It was derogatory slang

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Homophone: Different spelling and meaning, same pronunciation.

Coolie is a generally considered a slur for Asian laborers. It was originated by the British and referred to Indian workers. It's been used all over the world, including by Americans to refer to Chinese laborers/indentured servants.

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In February 1862, "An Act to Prohibit the 'Coolie Trade' by American Citizens in American vessels", also known as the Anti-Coolie Act, was signed into law by Abraham Lincoln, which prohibited any U.S. citizens and residents from trading in Chinese subjects, known as "coolies".

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Wikipedia