Why do some Spanish people get angry when I tell them I don't speak Spanish?

Question

It happens all the time. A Spanish person will walk up to you and ask you
something in Spanish. And when you tell them in English that you don't understand their language, they get angry.

I'm not of Hispanic descent at all. My hair is medium brown, and I'm British-American.

Answer 1

Maybe they're angry at themselves for not learning English?

Answer 2

This happens to my wife all the time. She is in no way Spanish. She doesn't even look Spanish. Yet, Hispanic people will always talk to her in Spanish. They get mad, I get mad, then I have to explain to them that what they did is the same as if I walked up to them and started speaking German, then got pissed off because they didn't know what I was saying.

Answer 3

because first they want someone to whom they can speak to and at the same time someone who knows their language. Because Languages bridge cultures. They help people communicate. So, they need to speak to someone who speaks their language. When they don't find it's natural they get frustrated. So try to learn few words by which you can communicate with them. Believe me it's in ur benefit and it's fun to learn a new language.

Answer 4

You are seen as a traitor to your heritage that's why. Happens to my friend all the time as she is half french yet doens't speak french.

Answer 5

maybe coz u look spanish
and sometimes Mexican ppl say they dont speak spanish when they straight as look like they do

Answer 6

are you in Spain working in a train station at the information desk? maybe that's why

Answer 7

I guess they somehow expect you to understand their language.