The history of China, a civilization renowned for its rich cultural exchanges and migrations, includes a less-discussed but significant presence of dark-skinned peoples. While interactions with other Asian cultures are widely acknowledged, the historical connections with African cultures and the presence of individuals of African descent in China are often overlooked.
Early Inhabitants and Migrations
Before the significant Han migrations that began around 1000 B.C., the original inhabitants of China are described as being dark-skinned. These indigenous peoples dominated the region for thousands of years. Following them, ethnic groups associated with the Austronesian people migrated from the Malay Archipelago approximately 6,000 years ago.
These early dark-skinned populations were sometimes pejoratively referred to as Moor Negritos or Little Black People by Spanish invaders encountered in Southeast Asia. Historical records suggest that these groups were still present in China during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911).
The Jomon and Ainu Peoples
Around 35,000 B.C., a group identified as the Jomon, described as black Chinese, migrated to Japan and became its first human inhabitants. Later, another group, known as the Ainu, followed. Genetically, these Jomon and Ainu peoples show greater similarity to dark-skinned groups found in Southeast Asia than to modern Chinese, Japanese, or Koreans. Their genetic legacy is still present in approximately 40% of modern Japanese, as well as in Mongolians and Tibetans.
Dynastic Rulership and Early Civilizations
The narrative of China's early history posits that its original inhabitants were black people, sometimes referred to by names such as Xia, Yi, and Shang. The founding of China's first dynasty and its first emperor, King Tang (or Ta), are attributed to a black individual. The earliest documented dynasty, the Shang Dynasty (c. 1500-1008 BC), is credited with consolidating the foundational elements of China's early civilization. Under the Shang, this dynasty was also known as the Nakhi, with "Na" signifying "Black" and "khi" signifying "Man," indicating a period of rule by black people.
These early black Chinese are credited with establishing the fundamental forms of calligraphy that persist to this day. The legendary Fu-his (2953-2383 BC), considered the first Chinese emperor, is described as being black. His "African brothers and sisters" are said to have established governmental structures, social institutions, and significant cultural inventions.
Cultural and Architectural Contributions
Among the significant contributions attributed to these early black inhabitants is the creation of the I Ching, or the "Book of Change," recognized as the oldest and most revered system of prophecy. This work is known to have profoundly influenced distinguished philosophers of Chinese thought.
These individuals of African descent are also credited with the construction of China's earth mound pyramids, which, due to erosion, are often mistaken for natural hills. Furthermore, the pyramids found in Japan are noted as not being constructed from indigenous Japanese stone, with legends attributing their building to small black people during the Mu civilization.
In later historical periods, they are cited for their role in constructing the elaborate tomb for Qin Shi-Huangdi in 210 BC, famously guarded by the Terracotta Army. The construction of the Great Wall of China is also attributed to them.
Archaeological and Textual Evidence
Archaeological studies and historical texts offer evidence of a substantial black population in early China. Archaeological findings have identified a "black substratum" in the earliest phases of Chinese history. "Chinese documents" frequently report on major kingdoms ruled by black individuals.
Classical texts, such as the To-Heu-Li composed during the Teheu dynasty (1122-249 BC), describe inhabitants with black features. Chinese folklore also frequently mentions these black people, including an emperor named Li (373-397 AD) whose consort, Hsiao Wu Wen, is described as being black African. Tales also speak of a kingdom of diminutive black people in southwestern China.
The sacred Manchu dynasty is noted for showing a significant strain of black people, with Emperor Pu-yi of Manchikuo, a descendant of the Manchu rulers of China, described as distinctly black. Chinese chronicles also report the existence of a black empire in southern China during the country's early history.
The Silk Road and Later Migrations
The first recorded presence of Black people in China dates back to the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD). During this era, the Silk Road served as a crucial trade route connecting China to the rest of the world. It was through this network that the first Black individuals, referred to as "foreign blacks," arrived in China.
These "foreign blacks" were often viewed with curiosity by the Chinese, who had little prior exposure to people with dark skin. Enslaved Africans were sometimes called Kunlun, meaning "dark-skinned," and were frequently depicted in Chinese art and literature as exotic figures.
Despite challenges, some Black individuals successfully integrated into Chinese society. Zhengjiani, an East African merchant, gained renown for his successful trade ventures and business acumen. He and his crew were honored as the first African foreign merchants to engage in trade with Chinese Emperor Shenzong between 1067 and 1085.
The Ming dynasty (1368-1644 AD) saw the arrival of another group of Black people, comprising former slaves and soldiers brought to Macau by the Portuguese for trade. These individuals, known as "Portuguese slaves," served as crew on trading ships sailing between Macao, India, and Japan. They were also employed in private households and at Jesuit missions in southern China.
Modern African Presence in China
While the historical contributions of Black people in China have been largely overlooked, recent years have seen increased scholarly attention to their experiences. Today, people of African descent in China, known as African Chinese, have ancestry from various African ethnic groups.
Estimates for the number of Africans living in China vary. By 2024, the African population in Guangzhou had significantly rebounded, driven by eased travel restrictions and resumed economic activity. China has also become a major destination for African students, with enrollments showing rapid growth since the early 2010s. In 2018, over 81,000 African students were enrolled in Chinese universities, a substantial increase from previous years, positioning China as a leading global destination for African scholars.