$MASKS

Colonialism was not the only source of decline for early masking traditions.  In many cases, the ebb and flow of civilizations has resulted in the extinction of societies that existed as independent political entities.  Their cultural traditions have disappeared with them. It is likely, for example, that the peoples of East-Central Asia had developed diverse masking traditions before becoming engulfed in the great Mongol Empire under the leadership of Genghis Khan in the 12th century

That's a fascinating point! Colonialism is often highlighted as a major factor in the decline of indigenous cultures, but the impact of historical empires like the Mongol Empire is equally significant🎭🎭🎭