I came to that realization when I was stationed down in FL a buncha years ago.. Since I was up on the panhandle, it was commonly referred to as "L.A.", or "Lower Alabama". Not sure if it was condescending because a lot of the locals embraced the "redneck." I came across as a very brash, angry dude, but what they didn't know, was that I was only brash, and only a little angry, but that was life, not my culture.. Once I moved back up to MA, I felt a little outta sorts at first because everyone sucked and had very little in the way of manners.. At least a total stranger will hold a door for you or your wife when walking into a bldg in the south; not so much up here..
I think there's a lot to be said about the, "caged animal", phrase, as we literally all just packed into a tiny area like sardines, and wonder why everyone is in such foul moods!!! I still have a lot of the "Southern hospitality" in my character, mostly from living down there for a while.. Loved the place and can't wait to move back!!