Hi, Maxine!
Thanks for your thoughts.
And, well, I just want to say right off the top how I’m fully aware that there are a lot of things I *could* have done.
I could have written a 5,000 word essay that included information on the mass killings, genocides, and ethnic cleansing that has taken place over the course of Chinese history, and about the impacts that tragic events like these– occurring over the centuries–would have had on various ethnic groups, including those represented here.
In addition, I could have included details on historical patterns of violent forced assimilation that have taken place in China.
Even today, as I write this reply, some estimated 1–2 million ethnic minority Uighurs are being held in prison camps and having their identities wiped away, both culturally and genetically; according to even the most recent reports, the Chinese government has instituted a program in which Han males are appointed to stay in Uighur homes…
Sadly, there is nothing new about this. I could have also cited a half dozen examples dating back to China’s Dynastic period where various ethnic minority groups endured similar practices of being married to Manchus or Han Chinese men to promote “harmony.” (See: ethnic cleansing)
And yes, I could have also made some references to both historical literature and cultural relics.
In fact, I was incredibly tempted to share one of those relics here, but your comment inspired me to just write an essay. So, thanks for that.
Anywho, I’ve said what I’ve said here to communicate that I put a TREMENDOUS amount of consideration into the overall tone of this essay, and I’m happy with the one I settled on for this.
All of the early drafts that were more fact loaded ended up being far heavier than what I wanted. There’s a time and place for everything. The drafting of this particular essay was neither the time nor place for that.
Finally, anyone who’s curious about this subject *could* very well do what I’ve done: the digging. The types of information you’ve suggested are out there. I have the brimming file folders from years of research to prove it. ^_^
Oh, and I even offered up something that helps to address the existence of “natural dark skin” in Asia–dating back to prehistorical times–at the end of this particular essay. But I guess you could have missed it. ^_^
