Having a great time reading about the one drop rule in Wikipedia.

Many states considered Native Americans blacks for the purpose of identification, including any Indian blood whatsoever. Virginia had to make 1/16 rule because the descendants of Pocahontas* were rich and influential and not about to put up with that silliness.

*Senator John Randolph of Virginia, for example.

It’s amazing how the rules can be changed if the people being hurt are able to hurt you back.