groups

Indeed, Louise - there are a lot more out there. Like Elvis Presley, Ava Gardner (what a beauty!), and a slew of folks who also recognize their Melungeon heritage. Oh - and remember Dinah Shore?

I have always thought the "one drop rule" preposterous, as I can't really imagine too many people left on earth who are completely Caucasian - whether they know it or choose to admit it, or not.

As a half-Italian, I know that even if I could trace that half all the way back to the days of the Roman Empire, the Romans conquered all the countries around them and had liaisons with anyone they wished; lands that are now considered Turkey, Egypt, all of the Middle East, etc. And then they marched North and ran roughshod over what is now Britain, so many Brits and Irishmen could probably boast at least one drop of Roman-African blood, as well.

Jazzy - I don't think any Eastern Indians are considered white. Politically they're Asians, and I'm not sure if that designates a specific color catagory. What are Philippinos? Partly Asian, partly European (Spanish). And Jews (ostensibly from each of the 12 tribes of Abraham) have been found as indigenous citizens of every continent of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Even a small enclave in India.

That's why this (to me) is all BS! The world needs to get over all this color nonsense. One can be proud of one's cultural heritage, no matter where your ancestors are from, but "color" prejudice has got to GO! There's no room left in this world for it anymore. Thinking 'above' it is the only way the human race will evolve spiritually.

so carol channing is what? ok i have heard enough. what difference does it mean to us what she does or anyone else who has lived a lie all these years....lucky for her she did not need any type of transplant..
cut me and do i not bleed red blood how about you?

The way Carol Channing found out she was bi-racial was her mother told her when she was about to e married not to be surprised if her children turned out dark. Then told her the story of her heritage.

Esmeralda.....that's exactly what White Supremists who are most assuredly mixed too, whether they choose to admit it or not...are afraid of. No more "pure" White race. But since Africa is the cradle of civilization and Eve was purported to be a Black woman....HELLO!

Not wanting to spoil the party, but anyone can "SAY" they are Black. It doesn't make it so. A search on ancestry dot com or another genealogical website can bring you back generations.
Carol Elaine Channing is listed in the 1930 US census as eing 9 years old and living with her father George C. Channing and mother Adelaide.

Further research shows George C. Channing being born in RI in 1889, the son of Charles Channing and Catherine O'Donnell. Catherine was born in Ireland in 1866. The Channings of Rhode Island go back many generations and a simple check into genealogical records show no African Americans among their forebearers.

Perhaps this was a story told by her father. Perhaps it was made up to be media savvy. In any event facts show it not to be true.

I for one never heard the Carol Channing story, true or not. Frankly I do not care if she is black, white, or purple polka-dotted. I agree with what was said before: I think as time goes on, none of us are lily-white or black or yellow or whatever; we're all just a blend of this, that, and the other! None of us is pure anything race-wise. And as OneEyedDiva made reference to the White Supremicists (sp? but who really cares), wouldn't it be a hoot to delve into their roots and give them some reality checks--ha!

I think I remember hearing about Jefferson being mixed but not the other presidents. Black people didn't make the one drop rule....the white powers that be did. And those with that mindset caused people to try to "pass". It's so sad that people felt they couldn't be who they really are because of such heavy prejudices.

Even tho we can say we don't care, etc.....race still plays an important part in the lives of those who are being persecuted (whether overtly or subtly) because of who they are. I always said that probably (and unfortunately) the only way we'll all join together as one (race) is when the aliens come down and it becomes the "human race" against them to insure our survival. Otherwise....look what's still happening in these United States of America in the 21st century!!!!!

Where we came from and those who cane before us fill us with a sense if belonging and self. It's interesting to find out about our heritage and wonder what portion of our own personal melting pot makes us feel connected and which part help us feel unique.

In doing my genealogy I found no famous persons, but saw names of women who lived thru difficult times or did amazingly heroric things in their personal lives. No matter what color or background they melt together to make me...me.