RJA #3c: Research Question

1) Basic questions;

Who are the Melungeons?
What genetic background is a true Melungeon?
Where are they located?
How did they become a genetically separate race (such as Caucasian, African American, Native American, etc.)?
When or over what period of time did this happen?
Should they be considered a separate genetic race?
What is their phenotype?
Could this occur (or be happening) in today's modern age of travel?

2) Some of the goals I hope to achieve with this research paper include a compilation of information on the subject and a clarity of the Melungeons' background, including ancestral and genetic heritage, as well as a cultural clarity. Above all, I am already enjoying satisfying my own curiosity and learning needs.

3) I am writing not only for myself, but also for those hoping to find answers about the Melungeons, including Melungeons themselves. I have already discovered a prevalence of varied genetic disorders, and hopefully compiling these findings to further aid those seeking answers to something that could be ailing them. This seems to be already done in a couple of places so it may not be a pressing thing to include but still relevant to the topic. Education and a greater spread of awareness that tri-racial groups do exist are my main goals and the purpose for my choice of topic.



4) Final question- How did the Melungeons develop into a genetically recognizable race of peoples, and should they be classified as such?