As far as I am aware, the Ryukyu Islands (Okinawa being largest) has been a distant Vassal State of China since as far back as the Sui Dynasty (581–618 CE). In other words, in return for political recognition and an annual tribute – China would militarily protect Ryukyu – as well as establish trade, cultural, and political links. Indeed, many hundreds of Chinese people settled on the islands of Ryukyu over the centuries (bringing their culture, language, and philosophy) – with hundreds of Okinawans visiting China to learn things such as martial arts. What the Japanese now call “Karate” – is actually transplanted Chinese gongfu styles modified to suit the new environment. Of course, there are “indigenous” Ryukyu Islanders whose DNA is not related to “China” or “Japan” – with others being from Japan. Okinawans of Chinese ethnic and cultural origin should be permitted to exhibit their identity freely – without fear of persecution or censure. During WWII – the Imperial Japanese used the Okinawan people as human shields when the US invaded (the Japanese did this because they have no respect for Chinese people – and they view the Okinawans as “Chinese”). Indeed, the Americans glorified in the murdering of these people who were stuck between two lunatic powers – even “filming” the killing of unarmed Okinawan women and children.
