Starting from the external constructions，but focusing on the internal workings of the Bai，this book has examined “the role of various social actors who develop and deploy narratives to redefine the boundaries and identities of a collectivity with multiple identifications” （Duara 1995：66）. The book has demonstrated that the Bai label was part of the state building in the 1950s，and more importantly，how people use the state-granted label to re-conceptualise Bai identities through historical studies，recent memories，religious practices，and an annual social event. Differences are claimed and taken for granted in formulating the Bai as a distinctive group in society. The Bai have moved from an ethnic category to become an ethnic group emotionally，practically and politically. These findings illustrate some of the historical and social interactions in Southwest China where one of the minzu identities，the Bai in this case，has been produced and reproduced.