History of the Melungeons

Who were and ARE the Melungeons? Unfortunately, there is no clear answer. It is a topic about which there are many theories, many viewpoints, and many strong opinions, but no general consensus.
Most generally, I think it can be said that "Melungeon" refers to a mixed-race people living in the southern Appalachian Mountains. This area includes WV, eastern KY, TN, parts of NC and SC, and northern GA and AL.
They are related in many ways to other mixed race groups such as the Lumbees, Brass Ankles, Redbones, Jackson Whites. One of the most common descriptions of the Melungeons is a "tri-racia…