Is it true that Romans and Greeks were predominantly white, as suggested by their historical depictions and accounts? This question has often been disputed in the realm of historical and racial studies. The answer involves a deep dive into historical evidence, cultural classificatory practices, and the socio-political context that gave rise to racial categorization.

Understanding Racial Classifications

First, it's essential to understand that the terms 'white,' 'black,' or 'Asian,' as they relate to race, are arbitrary and culturally constructed categories. There are no genetic markers that define these categories or color ranges that universally apply to them. These terms emerged during the 16th century, primarily as means to differentiate and rank different populations in a way that justified enslaving Africans and indigenous Americans. The concept of 'white' or 'black' as racial identities was a product of colonial and imperialist ideologies, not a reflection of biological or genetic facts.

Historical Evidence on Romans and Greeks

Historically, the predominant depictions and descriptions of Romans and Greeks suggest that the majority were indeed classified as ‘white.' Considerations of race in ancient civilizations were often based on cultural, societal, and political factors, rather than modern scientific standards. Artwork, sculptures, and written accounts provide clear depictions of a predominantly fair-skinned population. This conclusion is supported by the lack of mention of dark-skinned individuals in the historical records, and the prevalence of descriptions that align with a lighter complexion.

1. Artistic Depictions
Art from the classical period often portrays Greeks and Romans as fair-skinned. For example, sculptures of figures such as Alexander the Great and Achilles are depicted with lighter skin tones. These portrayals reflect the status and beauty ideals of the time. Similarly, many historical accounts describe the Greco-Roman populace in terms that suggest a predominantly light-skinned appearance.

2. Historical Accounts
Classical texts, such as those from Greek and Roman writers, often describe their own citizens as fair or as having a lighter complexion. For instance, the Roman writer Virgil praises the beauty of his homeland's people, and the Greek playwright Euripides writes about the fairness of his characters. These accounts align with the depictions found in art, reinforcing the notion that a lighter skin tone was prevalent in this era.

Contextualizing the Historical Context

It’s important to remember that the use of races as a basis for classification and hierarchy was a European invention, primarily to rationalize and perpetuate colonial conquests and slavery. The concept of 'black' as an identity emerged in a context where it was used to denote inferiority and servitude. This distinction was not present in ancient Greece or Rome, where the foundational cultural and social structures were built on different principles.

3. Continuity and Homogeneity
Geographically isolated regions, such as continents, tended to have homogeneous populations due to limited travel and communication. This is evident in pre-modern times when travel and interaction between continents were limited. Even in the modern context, regions continue to maintain significant homogeneity, albeit with some migration and mixing.

Italians as White
Another relevant point is that if the Romans had been predominantly black, one would expect their descendants, the Italians, to also be black. However, this is not the case; Italians continue to be classified as white in modern racial categorizations. This further supports the notion that the original Greco-Roman population was predominantly light-skinned.

Challenging the Present Misconceptions

The modern internet and digital platforms often perpetuate these misconceptions, with content creators and influencers using incorrect or outdated information. It is crucial to refer to pre-1990s historical texts and credible historical accounts, many of which stood the test of time and were not subject to the modern critiques and revisions that have reshaped the narrative of racial identity. These sources rely on common sense and historical evidence, providing a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the historical context.

Conclusion
The predominant belief that Romans and Greeks were white is supported by both historical evidence and cultural context. Understanding these factors helps to dispel the myth and better appreciate the complex tapestry of human history and racial classifications.