Hi. I’m
Peter Tao.
Accidental Historian is a name coined by friend, collaborator and news anchor/journalist, Michelle Li, when she produced a KSDK TV news special during Asian Heritage Month, about a historic moment for Chinese Americans in the City of St. Louis. That name seemed to capture everything.
I am that Accidental Historian
I am excited to welcome you to my new website, which I am launching on this very “Historic” day, December 5, 2024. Why this date? It is the date of a book launch, which is my first official publication, though you will find many of my other unofficial writings on this website.
But my profession doesn’t dictate who I am, nor how I should act, think and fit within our system. I have always preferred to be recognized as someone who likes to brainstorm, has a knack for problem-solving and envisioning, and feels important that I share my points of view, even if people may not be asking for it. We can learn from each other, after all.
I care, often worry, about way too much and am always curious and always have questions. I like to inform and educate, but I am not a teacher. There is so much to learn beyond any classroom.
As a result, my journey has evolved throughout my life, shaping me into who I am today, a bit of a Community Leader, an Advocate, Spokesperson, Advisor, Mentor, Writer, a Connector….and now, an Accidental Historian.
Who knows where my journey will next lead. Will I become a real or “Famous” historian, just like a character in one of my favorite historical documentaries, Monty Python and the Holy Grail?
Actually, I am an Architect by profession.
I am the proud owner of my practice and am a co-founder of TAO + LEE Associates, where we will soon celebrate 30 years.
Feel free to visit my other website, www.taolee.com, to understand my professional side.
Throughout my life, I have since accumulated many thoughts, stories and experiences, so it seemed at this stage, it was time to share and join the historianverse.
And, as I have learned to become a bit of a historical detective, I continue to unpack untold Chinese (and Asian) American history (not all old) that often seem so contemporary in topics. Stories that, to me, are relevant and often applicable to not only my life, but for everyone. By my sharing these stories it may make us better understand each other, perhaps leading to a more civil society. Photo: Buster Keaton, from Sherlock Jr. 1924
I do hope that my website will help you in some way, perhaps providing you another perspective on how to think about your life and how we are all different and remain ourselves, yet share a place in history together. Enjoy and explore.
MY DISCLAIMER……SORTA:
Who was that school board or history committee who decided or imposed on me the history they thought I should learn in school? For, whoever crafted those carefully (?) curated school lesson plans of my time, I did not learn any Asian American history, which is American history. Period. I have grown to resent this in my later life.
Also, I am not a “Historian” but am learning and absorbing every day.
I have also found it a bit disappointing that in this historical discovery journey of mine, that the “establishment” have commented that I cannot call myself a “Historian or Public Historian” due to a lack of a degree in this topic, even though I may be finding more than what many historicans find.
Do we need to revisit history to understand that some of the most inspiring and accomplished inventors, authors, architects, engineers, botanists, chefs, artists, musicians, leaders, business creators and discoveries might not have been by people with formal education or degrees?
Do we not recognize that in our ever evolving times that degrees are not necessarily needed and certainly not for everyone, nor even accessible to all?
This is not to be confused with receiving education and being educated, which is essential.
I always speak my mind……mostly in a civil, constructive way.
Finally and very importantly.
I wish to thank my family, who have encouraged and supported me on this very personal journey of mine.
And, in particular, my children, Matthew & Naomi, who encourged me to share my research and stories through a website of my own, where they not only helped set it up for me, but have provided me with the critical eye to understand my goals and objectives.