While discussing the history of race as a classification of humans, I got a reply stating that the Chinese used to be classified as "White" (back when many Europeans were not) because they were considered cultured and advanced. Then the Opium Wars happened, and the Chinese was said to be downgraded to "Yellow". Many Europeans, such as the Irish, was said to be classified as "non-White", because they were perceived to be backwards and unintelligent.

Is this true? And if so, are there any books or articles which you guys can provide to confirm this? I think this would be a great idea to fling back at those who scream "White privilege" by telling them that no, not all people who are classified as "White" nowadays used to enjoy privileges denied to "non-Whites"; and not all "non-Whites" used to be discriminated against.