THE OLDEST ROYAL FAMILY.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 29, Issue 33, 1 May 1917, Page 6

THE OLDEST ROYAL FAMILY.

The birth of an heir to the Crown Prince of Japan added another link to what is undoubtedly the oldest reigning family in the world. The J apanese themselves claim that after endless ages passed in higher spheres, it began its earthly <||ireer with the first human mpgareh & the year 660 B.C. With all deductions, howeverand Japanese history doss not become a record of solid facts till the fifth or sixth century A.D.—the monarchy is of unparalleled antiquity. Of course, the succession has by no means followed the strict rules which Europe considers necessary for legitimacy. Many Mikados, even down to quite recent times, have been the sons of concubines, and others have been adopted from a remote branch of the family. But In one way or another the succession has been carried on from the dawn of history. It is a proud record, and there Is little wonder that veneration for the reigning family is about the strongest religious feeling which Japan exhibits.