That may be the origin but it's definately not the connotation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Controversies_about_the_word_"niggardly"
Is that true, pretty good. I remember my first driving experience in Mexico City, so many years ago. I was told if your fender was 2 teed in front of the guy next to you, you were in charge, and should honk once just to be sure that guy yielded to you. Great way to drive, pretty funny. c