Why do some people use the 'N-word?'

The "N-word" will always be a hot-button topic to discuss, especially when not everyone knows its history. Neal Lester, English professor and director of Project Humanities at ASU, visited NewsOne Now to give a lesson on the word and its origins.

In the video, Lester explains how the word was orginally used to describe the skin tone of a person. After the 14th century, the word began to conjure ideas of negativity and intimidation.

Lester also rejects the idea of society now using the "N-word" as term of endearment, saying, "I'm really tired of that because no one can really tell me what it's about."