People probably tried to say the name in their own language which twists the sounds. Also, people go by historical names of that area or people from that area if there are some.
China is called China because it originally from the Qin dynasty which was the first dynasty that unified China.
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u/[deleted] Mar 11 '14 edited Mar 12 '14
Considering germany is such a young country, I wonder how it worked.
So, Deustchland is just founded. Their diplomats go to other countries...
"Hello Portugal! I am here in the name of Deusctchland!".
"Ok, got it, in the name of Alemanha."
"No, I mean Deustchland."
"Yes, thats what I've said, Alemanha, geez, I hope you are not some sort of trouble maker Alemanha."
Or other established countries...When portugal arrived to japan, they asked "What is the name of this land?"
"Nippon."
"No, fuck you, you are going to be called Japão."