A genealogy of Minzu in China

This chapter traces the concept of minzu, crucial in shaping Chinese nationalism and ethnic identities, from the Late Qing Dynasty through the Republic of China and into the People’s Republic of China. The chapter emphasizes minzu as a fluid, multifaceted concept, influenced not only by state imposition but also by individual and group interpretation, negotiation, and performance of identities. It discusses the impact of new media technology and social media platforms on the understanding and articulation of minzu, presenting them as alternative spaces for negotiation, expression, and potential transformation of traditional minzu interpretations. The chapter highlights shifting power dynamics within the growing network society fostered by social media platforms, and how these shifts affect minzu’s conceptualization and articulation. The conclusion underlines the need for an approach that considers the complex interplay of history, politics, society, and technology in shaping ethnic identity within the evolving digital realm.