The population booms to 100 million in 1685 to 430 million in 1853. At this time China lacks the technology, no industrial revolution occurs, and insufficient agricultural production to accommodate this increase in population. This leads to unemployment, impoverishment, misery, and starvation.
The state government(centralized and bureaucratic) did not enlarge itself. Not enough government administrative to effectively control the following; tax collection, flood control, and social welfare.
The Qing Dynasty is in decline and a growing number of gangs leads to internal crisis.
Taiping Uprising(a.k.a. peasant rebellion) 1850 - 1864
The leader of this revolution is Hong Xiuquan. He embraces Christianity and rejected confucianism, Daoism & Buddhism. Ideology behind this movement is, men and women are equal, redistribution of land, denounced the Qing dynasty, end of foot binding, prostitution, and opium. H. Xiuquan cousin develops plans for reform. The Revolution grows and establishes itself a capital in Nanjing 1853. Taiping revolution declines because of divisions and indecisiveness. Qing Dynasty loyalist reestablish reign. 20 - 30 million lives lost in this rebellion(civil war), this left China's economy disrupted and weak.
In a stupor - The Opium Wars
Opium originated from Arab traders during the 8th Century. It was considered a magic cure for dysentery. This drug became a problem in the late 18th Century, to the fault of the British. The British pushed this drug to counter balance their deficit trade with China. Without it the British would have not collateral with China. The havoc opium caused in China; 1. it was illegal 2. it corrupted officials 3. to pay for the opium, it depleted China's silver resources 4. it made addicts by the millions (it was common for laborers to use it as a way of escaping the pain of work)
The 1st opium war 1839 - 1842 and 2nd Opium Wars leaves China in a stupor. Lin Zexu leads the first battle against opium, seizes and destroys 3 million pounds of opium and expels these Western drug traders from the country. The British retaliate and a treaty is agreed upon in 1842, in the favor of the British. This treaty promised the following; $21 million and ceded the island of Hong Kong to the British. To open 5 ports to trade, with a fixed tariff of 5%, and allowed foreigners to live in China under their own laws.
2nd 1856 - 1858 Opium War - Summer Palace in Beijing vandalized, more treaty ports are opened to foreign traders and foreigners are allowed to buy land in China. China erodes and loses control. Everyone has a piece of China, except China itself.
1860's - 1870's "self- strengthening" and " reconstruction", China attempts regain control of its country.
The Boxer Rebellion 1900's - was an anti - foreign movement that destroyed foreign embassies in Beijing and killed many europeans and Christians in the process. The rebellion was not successful. Huge payment was imposed upon China as punishment.
The Rape of Nanjing, WWII - Japan invades China
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Sunday, June 19, 2011
The more we read through Strayer, the more disheartened I get. Are we doomed to repeat are previous mistakes? Our human nature seems to be fueled by our constant need for wealth and power, meanwhile we deplete our natural resources doing so. Empire building requires a great amount of natural and "Human resources". This is a common theme throughout history and we continue to do so today.
Building of empires required amassed wealth and unity of the people. This was achieved through commerce, exploration, religion and warfare. These empires struggled in many aspects to achieve this, some succeeding others not. The Mughal Empire, Emperor Akbar(1556-1605) attempted to unify his people through religion. He practiced tolerance, he allowed Hindu and Muslims to practice their faiths equally. Division among them became apparent and purists of either religion made their struggle for dominance. Unfortunately Akbar's attempts for religious peace failed. The Muslim religion regained hold and many Hindu temples were destroyed. Unifying territories huge or small is a difficult task. Each empire having his own challenges to meet. Russia with its vastness and nomadic people and Japan with its many feudal lords. Was an Empires success interdependent or independent? in some aspects or all?
During this era furs(soft gold), alcohol, slaves, spices and sugar were commodities of trade. Sugar, cotton and tobacco plantations were labor intensive, work done by slaves. Sugar plantations were the most precarious and many slaves died in the process. This purpose made slaves a high in demand.
The origin of the word "slave", originated from the Slavic people of the Black Sea Region. This was the original source for forced labor.
How Africans became prime source of Slave trade -
Ottoman Turks seized Constantinople and cut off the traffic of Slavic people
Native Americans perished easily to disease, introduced by the Europeans
Christians were exempt? and Europeans were expensive and temporary.
Africans were skilled farmers, immune to tropical and European diseases, non-Christians, great no#s and were available on the network of trade.
Slaves of North America vs South America
There were clear divisions and separations in North America. In South America there was more assimilation and mixing of cultures. Racial tensions existed but not to the extent of the North American counterparts. The comment made by Ibn Khaldun(p452), is so outlandish, it really amazed me to see it in print. This is definitely something that would not be tolerated today, we've come a long way since then.
Slave Trade - how it impacted African people? Their population growth was impaired because so many were taken from their homeland. Origins of people that were taken to displace from family and their villages (p453-455). The African people did not emerge as a Empire like other civilizations. The had no concept of "African Identity", they were made of hundreds of small communities/clans that were often divided. They did not contribute any new technological advances. Imagine if no slave trade existed? How would that have impacted the African Civilization and its population. Would there have been an African Empire to contend with among the Ottoman, Chinese, or Mughal Empires?
With our current economy, do we need to return to the days of simple commerce, and dismiss our modern technology? Things may have been more culturally volatile during this time but there were great opportunities to gain wealth. What does the U.S. currently have to offer as goods? I feel we've lost ground. We need to bring back our economy by reinvesting in our country. Outsourcing work needs to come to a halt and encourage production of U.S. goods for exportation.
Building of empires required amassed wealth and unity of the people. This was achieved through commerce, exploration, religion and warfare. These empires struggled in many aspects to achieve this, some succeeding others not. The Mughal Empire, Emperor Akbar(1556-1605) attempted to unify his people through religion. He practiced tolerance, he allowed Hindu and Muslims to practice their faiths equally. Division among them became apparent and purists of either religion made their struggle for dominance. Unfortunately Akbar's attempts for religious peace failed. The Muslim religion regained hold and many Hindu temples were destroyed. Unifying territories huge or small is a difficult task. Each empire having his own challenges to meet. Russia with its vastness and nomadic people and Japan with its many feudal lords. Was an Empires success interdependent or independent? in some aspects or all?
During this era furs(soft gold), alcohol, slaves, spices and sugar were commodities of trade. Sugar, cotton and tobacco plantations were labor intensive, work done by slaves. Sugar plantations were the most precarious and many slaves died in the process. This purpose made slaves a high in demand.
The origin of the word "slave", originated from the Slavic people of the Black Sea Region. This was the original source for forced labor.
How Africans became prime source of Slave trade -
Ottoman Turks seized Constantinople and cut off the traffic of Slavic people
Native Americans perished easily to disease, introduced by the Europeans
Christians were exempt? and Europeans were expensive and temporary.
Africans were skilled farmers, immune to tropical and European diseases, non-Christians, great no#s and were available on the network of trade.
Slaves of North America vs South America
There were clear divisions and separations in North America. In South America there was more assimilation and mixing of cultures. Racial tensions existed but not to the extent of the North American counterparts. The comment made by Ibn Khaldun(p452), is so outlandish, it really amazed me to see it in print. This is definitely something that would not be tolerated today, we've come a long way since then.
Slave Trade - how it impacted African people? Their population growth was impaired because so many were taken from their homeland. Origins of people that were taken to displace from family and their villages (p453-455). The African people did not emerge as a Empire like other civilizations. The had no concept of "African Identity", they were made of hundreds of small communities/clans that were often divided. They did not contribute any new technological advances. Imagine if no slave trade existed? How would that have impacted the African Civilization and its population. Would there have been an African Empire to contend with among the Ottoman, Chinese, or Mughal Empires?
With our current economy, do we need to return to the days of simple commerce, and dismiss our modern technology? Things may have been more culturally volatile during this time but there were great opportunities to gain wealth. What does the U.S. currently have to offer as goods? I feel we've lost ground. We need to bring back our economy by reinvesting in our country. Outsourcing work needs to come to a halt and encourage production of U.S. goods for exportation.
Monday, June 13, 2011
I think it is especially important to try and understand the conflict in the Middle East. To understand it means understanding its many cultures and religions. Islam is made up of several nomadic tribes (Bedouins) bound together by the Muslim religion. The Muslim religion is perhaps one of the largest practiced religions in this area. I like the passage Strayer quotes from Muhammad;
"All mankind is from Adam and Eve, and Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over a black nor a black has any superiority over a white––except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood."
This is how the Muslims viewed each other. They also had the belief of "being" or "correct behavior". This means more than just saying your Muslim, but to live and breathe the religion. That your every thought and movement be governed by Allah.
Muhammad Ibn Abdullah (570-632 C.E.) born in Mecca, is Allah's messenger. He is the equivalent to Jesus, Moses, Buddha, and Abraham. Muhammad grew in a time of religious corruption and social inequalities. His revelations came to him approx. 610 and continued for 22yrs. These revelations came to be known as the Quran, the Muslim's live by this text. They are sacred scriptures meant to be recited not simply read. Reciting it in its original Arabic form is said to give one the feeling of "Divine" presence. The Muslim religion is monotheistic, there is only one God, Allah. He is seen as all powerful. creator, good, just, and merciful.
The Core message of the Quran - Law of God these are 5 requirements a.k.a. "Pillars of Islam"
1- There is no God but, Allah and Muhammad is its messenger.
2- prayer 5x a day while facing Mecca, this also involves rituals of cleansing, bowing, kneeling, prostration - this is a reminder that one is always in the presence of the Divine.
3- Be generous, help maintain the community and poor.
4- Fasting "Ramadan" - no food, drink, or sexual relations between dawn and sundown.
This symbolizes purification and reminds us of the needs of the hungry
5- Hajj, pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in ones lifetime.
6-? Jihad- "of the sword" it is the struggle of the fight against evil.
The difference between Sunni and Shia
After Muhammad died, the community became divided. The dispute is based on whom should be the successor? The civil war began with the four Caliphs (close companions of the Prophet). The Sunni's believe the Caliphs are the rightful leaders. The Shia (faction) believe the bloodline of Ali(one of the original Caliphs) is the rightful heir to lead.
I enjoyed this chapter it helped me to understand the religion and the history of its people.
"All mankind is from Adam and Eve, and Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over a black nor a black has any superiority over a white––except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood."
This is how the Muslims viewed each other. They also had the belief of "being" or "correct behavior". This means more than just saying your Muslim, but to live and breathe the religion. That your every thought and movement be governed by Allah.
Muhammad Ibn Abdullah (570-632 C.E.) born in Mecca, is Allah's messenger. He is the equivalent to Jesus, Moses, Buddha, and Abraham. Muhammad grew in a time of religious corruption and social inequalities. His revelations came to him approx. 610 and continued for 22yrs. These revelations came to be known as the Quran, the Muslim's live by this text. They are sacred scriptures meant to be recited not simply read. Reciting it in its original Arabic form is said to give one the feeling of "Divine" presence. The Muslim religion is monotheistic, there is only one God, Allah. He is seen as all powerful. creator, good, just, and merciful.
The Core message of the Quran - Law of God these are 5 requirements a.k.a. "Pillars of Islam"
1- There is no God but, Allah and Muhammad is its messenger.
2- prayer 5x a day while facing Mecca, this also involves rituals of cleansing, bowing, kneeling, prostration - this is a reminder that one is always in the presence of the Divine.
3- Be generous, help maintain the community and poor.
4- Fasting "Ramadan" - no food, drink, or sexual relations between dawn and sundown.
This symbolizes purification and reminds us of the needs of the hungry
5- Hajj, pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in ones lifetime.
6-? Jihad- "of the sword" it is the struggle of the fight against evil.
The difference between Sunni and Shia
After Muhammad died, the community became divided. The dispute is based on whom should be the successor? The civil war began with the four Caliphs (close companions of the Prophet). The Sunni's believe the Caliphs are the rightful leaders. The Shia (faction) believe the bloodline of Ali(one of the original Caliphs) is the rightful heir to lead.
I enjoyed this chapter it helped me to understand the religion and the history of its people.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Part III - Ch. 8-10
500-1500 C.E.considered "postclassical" era, or precursor to the modern era.
During this time 3rd wave civilizations emerged, based upon previous classical civilizations.
New ones to emerged; Swahili, Kievan Rus, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and Islam being the most expansive and influential.
Classic civilizations evolved such as Greco-Roman and China which grew larger or with the demise of one turned into another such as with the Aztecs.
Trade and commerce bound and influenced across cultures. The following routes of importance were:
Silk Roads
Indian Ocean basin
Sahara Desert
Mississippi River and others
these trade routes helped establish interactions between cultures - wether it be ideas, food,religion, technologies, or germs
"No man is an island, entire of itself," "Every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main"- John Donne, sums up civilizations and their influence upon each other.
The Arab, Mongol, Inca Empires were also another vehicle to influence trade and commerce. The trade in turn brought wealth to these civilizations and influenced how they were to be governed.
Questions to consider for the following chapters:
how external stimuli produce change in particular societies?
were they free to decide to accept or reject new ideas and practices? or were they forced?
Strayer discusses a time in which life may have been more difficult to survive compared to our current luxuries and abilities to acquire things. But one can only imagine the wonder to which these cultures interacted with goods. Life was built upon necessity of the simplest needs, food, water, and shelter. It makes one reminiscent for a simpler time, no phones, no laptops,or cars etc. This is the basis of beginnings of our modern civilization.
Chapter 8
The importance of the trade routes where did they lie and what goods were of great value and influence. These goods where dictated by the civilizations environmental situation and what was in demand.
Silk Road - this route began eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, across the most northern part of Arabia, Persia, into India and Turkestan, then across China.
Indian Ocean basin - Sea trade routes, encompassed coasts of Africa, Arabia, India, southeast Asia and China. This oceanic system increased with understanding of trade winds(riding the monsoons between Madagascar and India). And China developing larger ships and the magnetic compass.
Sahara Desert - this route help link North Africa to the interior of West Africa
Mississippi River, Mesoamerica, and Andean regions - each of these regions had developed somewhat independent of each other. Thou some influences can be seen between the Mesoamericans and southwestern United States. The agricultural spread of Maize is what binds these three regions.
Items of trade along these routes were, from:
China - silk, bamboo, mirrors, gunpowder, paper, rhubarb, ginger, lacquerware, chrysanthemums, porcelain, tea
Mediterranean basin - ceramics, glassware, wine, gold, olive oil, glazes, grapevines, jewelry, artworks, perfume, wool and linen textiles
Siberia and Central Asia - furs, walrus tusks, amber, livestock, horses, falcons, hides, copper vessels, tents, saddles, slaves
India - cotton, herbal medicine, precious stones, spices, grain, ivory, timber, tortoiseshells
Arabia - frankincense, myrrh, perfumes
Southeast Asia - tin, sandalwood, cloves. nutmeg, mace
East Africa - ivory, gold, iron goods, slaves, tortoiseshells, quartz, leopard skins
These routes are very significant to each civilization. It helped further develop existing civilizations and foster new ones. Its influence can be seen in religion, language (spoken and written) and culture.
Chapter 9
China's influence, economically, technologically, as it evolved.
Tang dynasty (618-097) and Song dynasty (960-1279) are considered to be the era of the "Golden Age". Boom in the following areas population, structure in government, economy, education, arts, sciences and technology and resurgence of Confucianism incorporated with Buddhism and Daoism. All this allowed China to become one of the strongest civilizations during this time.
Northern vs. Southern China and the Northern struggle with Nomadic tribes. These nomadic tribes would regularly pillage the northern parts of China. Finally an agreement was made between the two cultures. Through the "tribute system" gifts would be made to the nomads to safety to the Chinese people in this region. The "tribute system" was how the Chinese Court came to see themselves, as superior to "barbarian" peoples, and any visiting cultures were required to kow tow before the Imperial Court and present gifts to them. This would also allow other cultures permission to do business with the Chinese.
China"s influence upon Korea, they did try to conquer Korea during the Sui dynasty. It depleted China's resources and they failed. Korea has remained independent of China's rule. China's cultural influence upon Korea was minimal, with the exception of Buddhism.
In Vietnam China's influence very evident in their religion, administrative techniques, examination system, arts, and literature. But like Korea, Vietnam established its independence
In Japan what cultural influences they borrowed from China was voluntary. The influences they did borrow they interpreted it in their own way. Japan being an island, made it difficult for China to assert its power over them.
Eurasian influences, paper-making, printing, gunpowder, metallurgy, and magnetic compass. As well as influencing other civilizations it also assimilated outside influences, such as Buddhism.
Buddhism in China was initially rejected because it was so contrary to Confucian thought, and was not embraced until after the end of the Han dynasty, approximately 300- 800 C.E. Buddhism would be embraced, then rejected and then incorporated with Confucianism and Daoism.
Chapter 10
The term "barbarian" is interesting the Chinese, Byzantium and Roman Empire, all view a "barbarian" as any influence or civilization other than there own.
Christianity, establishing itself, divergence Roman Catholic(Papal centered) and Eastern Orthodox the differences between the two:
Eastern Orthodox - encompassed the most Eastern part of Byzantium Empire, believed in God and State, Constantinople its center, Greek base in language and culture, iconoclasm- no idol worshipping, priest were allowed to marry and grow their hair and beards long.
Roman Catholic - encompassed the western part Byzantium Empire, Rome is its capital, latin based, God separate from state, Papal centered, Priest were required to shave and lead a life of celibacy, and they believed in icon veneration.
By 1054, both mutually excommunicated the other.
The Eastern Orthodox were in constant battle of controlling its influence and empire against the Muslims and in 1095 the Roman Catholics launched their crusade against Islam. This crusade also involved the ransacking of Constantinople. From this point on the separation between Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholics is to be irreparable.
Unity, harmony and wealth seem to the driving force for these civilizations. They made decisions based on what would benefit uniting their people. Such is the case with Prince Vladimir of Kiev. He chose the religion of Byzantium, for the sole purpose of uniting his people of Kievan Rus, based on their cultural lifestyle. Despite the fall of Rome,
many civilizations looked to the Romans(when it was at its height of reign) as a model to emulate and build upon.
During this time 3rd wave civilizations emerged, based upon previous classical civilizations.
New ones to emerged; Swahili, Kievan Rus, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and Islam being the most expansive and influential.
Classic civilizations evolved such as Greco-Roman and China which grew larger or with the demise of one turned into another such as with the Aztecs.
Trade and commerce bound and influenced across cultures. The following routes of importance were:
Silk Roads
Indian Ocean basin
Sahara Desert
Mississippi River and others
these trade routes helped establish interactions between cultures - wether it be ideas, food,religion, technologies, or germs
"No man is an island, entire of itself," "Every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main"- John Donne, sums up civilizations and their influence upon each other.
The Arab, Mongol, Inca Empires were also another vehicle to influence trade and commerce. The trade in turn brought wealth to these civilizations and influenced how they were to be governed.
Questions to consider for the following chapters:
how external stimuli produce change in particular societies?
were they free to decide to accept or reject new ideas and practices? or were they forced?
Strayer discusses a time in which life may have been more difficult to survive compared to our current luxuries and abilities to acquire things. But one can only imagine the wonder to which these cultures interacted with goods. Life was built upon necessity of the simplest needs, food, water, and shelter. It makes one reminiscent for a simpler time, no phones, no laptops,or cars etc. This is the basis of beginnings of our modern civilization.
Chapter 8
The importance of the trade routes where did they lie and what goods were of great value and influence. These goods where dictated by the civilizations environmental situation and what was in demand.
Silk Road - this route began eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, across the most northern part of Arabia, Persia, into India and Turkestan, then across China.
Indian Ocean basin - Sea trade routes, encompassed coasts of Africa, Arabia, India, southeast Asia and China. This oceanic system increased with understanding of trade winds(riding the monsoons between Madagascar and India). And China developing larger ships and the magnetic compass.
Sahara Desert - this route help link North Africa to the interior of West Africa
Mississippi River, Mesoamerica, and Andean regions - each of these regions had developed somewhat independent of each other. Thou some influences can be seen between the Mesoamericans and southwestern United States. The agricultural spread of Maize is what binds these three regions.
Items of trade along these routes were, from:
China - silk, bamboo, mirrors, gunpowder, paper, rhubarb, ginger, lacquerware, chrysanthemums, porcelain, tea
Mediterranean basin - ceramics, glassware, wine, gold, olive oil, glazes, grapevines, jewelry, artworks, perfume, wool and linen textiles
Siberia and Central Asia - furs, walrus tusks, amber, livestock, horses, falcons, hides, copper vessels, tents, saddles, slaves
India - cotton, herbal medicine, precious stones, spices, grain, ivory, timber, tortoiseshells
Arabia - frankincense, myrrh, perfumes
Southeast Asia - tin, sandalwood, cloves. nutmeg, mace
East Africa - ivory, gold, iron goods, slaves, tortoiseshells, quartz, leopard skins
These routes are very significant to each civilization. It helped further develop existing civilizations and foster new ones. Its influence can be seen in religion, language (spoken and written) and culture.
Chapter 9
China's influence, economically, technologically, as it evolved.
Tang dynasty (618-097) and Song dynasty (960-1279) are considered to be the era of the "Golden Age". Boom in the following areas population, structure in government, economy, education, arts, sciences and technology and resurgence of Confucianism incorporated with Buddhism and Daoism. All this allowed China to become one of the strongest civilizations during this time.
Northern vs. Southern China and the Northern struggle with Nomadic tribes. These nomadic tribes would regularly pillage the northern parts of China. Finally an agreement was made between the two cultures. Through the "tribute system" gifts would be made to the nomads to safety to the Chinese people in this region. The "tribute system" was how the Chinese Court came to see themselves, as superior to "barbarian" peoples, and any visiting cultures were required to kow tow before the Imperial Court and present gifts to them. This would also allow other cultures permission to do business with the Chinese.
China"s influence upon Korea, they did try to conquer Korea during the Sui dynasty. It depleted China's resources and they failed. Korea has remained independent of China's rule. China's cultural influence upon Korea was minimal, with the exception of Buddhism.
In Vietnam China's influence very evident in their religion, administrative techniques, examination system, arts, and literature. But like Korea, Vietnam established its independence
In Japan what cultural influences they borrowed from China was voluntary. The influences they did borrow they interpreted it in their own way. Japan being an island, made it difficult for China to assert its power over them.
Eurasian influences, paper-making, printing, gunpowder, metallurgy, and magnetic compass. As well as influencing other civilizations it also assimilated outside influences, such as Buddhism.
Buddhism in China was initially rejected because it was so contrary to Confucian thought, and was not embraced until after the end of the Han dynasty, approximately 300- 800 C.E. Buddhism would be embraced, then rejected and then incorporated with Confucianism and Daoism.
Chapter 10
The term "barbarian" is interesting the Chinese, Byzantium and Roman Empire, all view a "barbarian" as any influence or civilization other than there own.
Christianity, establishing itself, divergence Roman Catholic(Papal centered) and Eastern Orthodox the differences between the two:
Eastern Orthodox - encompassed the most Eastern part of Byzantium Empire, believed in God and State, Constantinople its center, Greek base in language and culture, iconoclasm- no idol worshipping, priest were allowed to marry and grow their hair and beards long.
Roman Catholic - encompassed the western part Byzantium Empire, Rome is its capital, latin based, God separate from state, Papal centered, Priest were required to shave and lead a life of celibacy, and they believed in icon veneration.
By 1054, both mutually excommunicated the other.
The Eastern Orthodox were in constant battle of controlling its influence and empire against the Muslims and in 1095 the Roman Catholics launched their crusade against Islam. This crusade also involved the ransacking of Constantinople. From this point on the separation between Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholics is to be irreparable.
Unity, harmony and wealth seem to the driving force for these civilizations. They made decisions based on what would benefit uniting their people. Such is the case with Prince Vladimir of Kiev. He chose the religion of Byzantium, for the sole purpose of uniting his people of Kievan Rus, based on their cultural lifestyle. Despite the fall of Rome,
many civilizations looked to the Romans(when it was at its height of reign) as a model to emulate and build upon.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Chapter 5 Eurasian Cultural Traditions - summary with questions
The main theme of the chapter is, how do cultural traditions arise? is it political, social or economic conditions? Or is the human imagination despite environment?
In 500 B.C.E. - a big boom of cultural traditions emerged in the following areas:
China-Confucianism and Daoism
India-Hinduism and Buddhism
Middle East-monotheistic tradition, Zoroastrianism, based on the prophet Zarathustra.
Israel-Judaism,Prophets are Amos, Jeremiah, and Isaiah
Greece-rational thinkers, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle and others.
Chinese and Greek philosophy are similar in thought in regards to the affairs of the world and human rationality to understand reality. Whereas Indian, Persian, and Jewish cultures were more religious and dealt with the Realm of the Divine and its relationship to human life. All the previously mentioned groups had practiced polytheism. Polytheism is based on the Gods and Spirits, seen as powerful beings who are the root cause of all things. In order to placate these Gods and Spirits humans would perform rituals and sacrifices.
CHINA during the "Age of Warring States"(403-221 B.C.E.) was going thru great turmoil and disorder. Thinkers of this time were seeking answers to regain former the peace and tranquility during the Zhou Dynasty(1122 B.C.E.). They proposed three different schools of thought:
Legalism- to govern the civilization through strict rules or laws enforced through rewards and harsh punishments. This inspired rule in China During the Shihuangdi and Qin Dynasty(221-206 B.C.E.). This was not successful, but is still used as a base model.
The Han and following Dynasties based their rule on "Confucius" teaching.
Confucianism- born in Lu, China, into a aristocratic family. His teachings are collected in a volume titled "Analects". He influenced Asian culture immensely, China, Korea, and Japan. His philosophy is that order and tranquility is not obtained through laws and punishments but with REN. Ren is defined as human heartedness, benevolence, goodness, nobility and heart.
He believed that society is based on unequal relationships:
Father - Son
Husband - Wife
Older Brother - Younger Brother
Ruler - Subject
The woman's role was also dictated to yield, be humble, honor her chastity, not to cause trouble, not to gossip, and choose her words wisely. Her responsibilities were to cook, clean and do anything that required her to better serve her husband.
If one treats these relationships with sincerity, benevolence and genuine concern, the lesser party will respond in a positive(deference and obedience) manner and harmony will be achieved.
These virtues were to be achieved through a broad education, rituals, ceremonies and filial piety. This education encompassed language, literature, history, philosophy and ethics as it applied to government. Filial Piety is respect for parents and senior members of family. The family was considered a mini model of political life to be governed by "Confucianism". To this day it is ingrained in education, government and culture.
Daoism- Its founder is Laozi, a 6th Cent. B.C.E. archivist. He wrote "Daodejing"(The Way and Its Power). Daoism is in opposite view of Confucianism. It is mor spontaneous, individualistic and natural. Its emphasis is on nature and its mysteries. The Dao is "Way of Nature", it meant withdrawal from self improvement, political and social activism. It defined life as circular.
The Dao and Confucianism are both embraced, unity of opposites, symbolized by a "yin & yang".
INDIA birthplace of Hinduism and Buddhism.
Hinduism- Has no historical founder and it did not seek converts. It grew from a particular people and territory. It is an amalgamation of influences, it reflects the diversity of the people who migrated or invaded the south Asian peninsula. Hinduism is based on the 'Vedas". The "Vedas" are a collection ancient poems, hymns, prayers and rituals. It was compiled by Brahmins(priests). The vedas were traditionally passed down orally, then in 600 B.C.E. it was written in Sanskrit. People became dissatisfied with the Brahmin's need for money to perform prayers and rituals. From this dissatisfaction grew the "Upanishads". The "Upanishads" were written by anonymous thinkers, it delved into the meaning of sacrifices in the Vedas, a more introspective thinking.
"Brahman" thinking is the idea of the World Soul, it is beyond reality and material objects. It is a primal unitary energy or divine reality. It is infusing of all things(similar to the Dao), our life as humans(sense if being) is an illusion.
Atman-is the individual human soul and is a part of Brahman. The goal in Hinduism is to reach Moksha. Moksha is the liberation, the union of Atman and Brahman. Reaching moksha ends the cycle of rebirth(is painful). How is one to achieve this goal? It is through Samsara. Samsara, considered rebirth or reincarnation. The soul migrates body to body, over many lifetimes. Depending on ones actions during his/her lifetime, your rebirth result will be determined. The caste you will be born into is dependent on your "karma". Moksha can also be achieved through knowledge and study and leading a spiritual life. Leading a spiritual life means, detachment of action in the world, doing work without regard to consequences, with passion and devotion to a deity, and meditation(such as a wandering ascetics, Brahmin priests).
Buddhism- emerged same time as Hinduism but it is distinct and separate. It was founded by Siddhartha Gautama( 566- 486 B.C.E.). He reached enlightenment at age 35, and was a Prince. His goal was understand "suffering and to end suffering". His idea was through modest living and leading a moral life one could reach enlightenment or "Nirvana". The state of nirvana is, no individual, no greed, no hatred or delusion.
Serenity is filled with love, kindness, compassion and ordinary life is an illusion(this idea originates from Hinduism). In Buddhism, release from rebirth can be achieved on a personal level and a Brahmin is not needed. Buddha did not believe in the caste system. He felt that everyone was responsible for his/her own spiritual development. Questions concerning God and creation were not relevant because it served no purpose to achieve enlightenment.
According Hinduism and based on the "Laws of Manu" the female child is subject to the father and the female youth to her husband. When the husband dies the wife is then subject to her sons. A women must never be independent. In Buddhism, women were allowed as nuns but were subordinate to monks. Nuns were allowed to run their own affairs, forbidden to do chores and were devoted to the "Awakening".
Several interpretations of Buddhism exist, but there are two main schools of thought:
Theravada-sees Buddha as a wise teacher and model. It is more psychological based, practices vs. beliefs. Individuals are responsible for themselves.
Mahayana(Great Vehicle)- believe in or follow, Bodhisattvas, spiritually developed people(super-beings). They are here to assist others to enlightenment. Buddha is seen as a God. This type of practice allows a greater amount of people to reach enlightenment, "Great Vehicle".
As Buddhism dies in India, Hinduism gets revived with some Buddhist influence. The emphasis is ordinary people could achieve enlightenment or Moksha, by performing everyday duties in their lives. Another path is, devotion of a God/ Goddess.
Monotheism- a single supreme deity responsible for creation and goodness a universal religion open to all mankind, negative aspect is it is exclusive and intolerant to other faiths and challenged polytheism.
ZOROATRIANISM originated from the Persian Empire. Founded by prophet Zarathustra(6-7 Cent. B.C.E.). Belief in one God, "Ahura Mazda", whom rules the world with all truth light and goodness. There will be a day of judgement, those who believe in Ahura Mazada will be granted eternal life in paradise, those who do not will be condemned to everlasting punishment. Its emphasis is on free will of humankind and its struggle to choose between Good and Evil is constant.
This faith spread to Egypt, Mesopotamia and Anatolia. But declined when Alexander the Great conquered them. Few survived and is still practiced today in India known as Parsis("Persians"). Despite the decline, its roots can be seen in Judaism, Christianity and Islamic religions.
JUDAISM traditions recorded in Old Testament. Hebrews migrated from Mesopotamia to Palestine, under the leadership of Abraham. A portion later fled to Egypt, where they were enslaved and later freed. They rejoined in Palestine, then split into to factions
North - Israel, assimilated into Assyrian culture
South - Judah, conquered by Babylonians but retained "Jewish" heritage.
Their God is known as Yahweh and its beliefs are based on the 10 Commandments. Yahweh is divine, but one could actively communicate with him. Singular, transcendent, personal, separate from nature, social justice and moral righteousness. No sacrifices and rituals.
Classical Greek and the Rational Order
Greeks were similar in thought to the Chinese, the world is a physical reality governed by natural laws. Humans through these natural laws choose a system of moral and ethical life. Cultural tradition is not based on religion, it is separate.
practices that existed;
secrete fertility cults
oracles-predict the future
mythology - Gods and Goddesses of Mt. Olympus
Greek thinkers were rational and non-religious in their quest for explaining reasoning:
Pythagoras-beneath chaos lay a foundation of unchangeable mathematical order
Hippocrates-"Humors", four fluids the body was composed of, ailments were cause when these fluids were out of balance.
Herodotus- men and humans are the reasons for conflict not the whims of Gods.
Plato- "The Republic", the basic design for a good society ruled by highly educated "Guardians" led by a "Philosopher-King".
Among all the Greek thinkers, Aristotle(384-322 B.C.E.) is the most prominent. He was student of Plato and teacher of Alexander the Great. He is known for the following: empirical observation, he cataloged the constitutions of 158 Greek city-states, identified over 100 of species of animals, wrote about logic, physics, astronomy, weather etc., on ethic's "virtue" could be trained and cultivated, and believed in a mixed system of government which combined principles of monarchy, aristocracy and democracy.
Jesus and Christianity
appears 500 yrs. after Confucius, Buddha and Zarathustra. He was a carpenter that came from a rural small-town. His emphasis was love and compassion, especially for the destitute. Christianity is not tolerant of other religions and it is not polytheistic but it does celebrate several saints. It does have some Jewish roots, such as the 10 Commandments. Christianity separates into two main factions, Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox.
Questions for Chapter 5 - Eurasian Cultural Traditions
1. Based on Confucianism, what tone is set regarding a woman's role?
A woman's role is to be subordinate to all male figures throughout her lifetime, to father, to husband and to son. To yield and be humble before them. To honor her chastity, not to gossip or cause trouble, clean and prepare meals - anything that is required to better serve her husband.
2. What are the differences of Hinduism vs. Buddhism?
Hinduism vs. Buddhism, there is some cross over themes, regards to "moksha" (enlightenment) and rebirth, "Samsara" and release from it. The differences lies in how one achieves this and the motivation behind it.
Hinduism has no historical founder and is built upon ancient text called the Vedas.It is caste based and its belief is what you do in your lifetime(karma) here on this earth will dictate what your outcome or rebirth will be. Also earlier belief was that enlightenment could only be achieved through Brahmins(priests), but this later evolves with the introduction of Buddhism. Enlightenment can be also achieved through ordinary duties and devotion to Gods/Goddesses.
Buddhism is founded by Siddhartha Gautama. It is based on idea of "suffering and its release from it. Buddhism is accessible to all mankind, and each is responsible for his/her own enlightenment. Buddhism does not believe in the caste system. Nirvana can be achieved without Brahmins but through a modest and moral life combined with meditation.
3. Who is Socrates?
His lifetime is approximately 469- 399 B.C.E. He was an Athenian philosopher, who exemplified Greek way of thinking. He did not write his thoughts, but preferred to teach through questioning. He questioned assumptions and logic of his students. He emphasized importance of wisdom and virtue. He challenged the wealth and the power. He also admired the Greek enemies, the Spartans. Socrates was accused of corrupting the youth and sentenced to death.
In 500 B.C.E. - a big boom of cultural traditions emerged in the following areas:
China-Confucianism and Daoism
India-Hinduism and Buddhism
Middle East-monotheistic tradition, Zoroastrianism, based on the prophet Zarathustra.
Israel-Judaism,Prophets are Amos, Jeremiah, and Isaiah
Greece-rational thinkers, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle and others.
Chinese and Greek philosophy are similar in thought in regards to the affairs of the world and human rationality to understand reality. Whereas Indian, Persian, and Jewish cultures were more religious and dealt with the Realm of the Divine and its relationship to human life. All the previously mentioned groups had practiced polytheism. Polytheism is based on the Gods and Spirits, seen as powerful beings who are the root cause of all things. In order to placate these Gods and Spirits humans would perform rituals and sacrifices.
CHINA during the "Age of Warring States"(403-221 B.C.E.) was going thru great turmoil and disorder. Thinkers of this time were seeking answers to regain former the peace and tranquility during the Zhou Dynasty(1122 B.C.E.). They proposed three different schools of thought:
Legalism- to govern the civilization through strict rules or laws enforced through rewards and harsh punishments. This inspired rule in China During the Shihuangdi and Qin Dynasty(221-206 B.C.E.). This was not successful, but is still used as a base model.
The Han and following Dynasties based their rule on "Confucius" teaching.
Confucianism- born in Lu, China, into a aristocratic family. His teachings are collected in a volume titled "Analects". He influenced Asian culture immensely, China, Korea, and Japan. His philosophy is that order and tranquility is not obtained through laws and punishments but with REN. Ren is defined as human heartedness, benevolence, goodness, nobility and heart.
He believed that society is based on unequal relationships:
Father - Son
Husband - Wife
Older Brother - Younger Brother
Ruler - Subject
The woman's role was also dictated to yield, be humble, honor her chastity, not to cause trouble, not to gossip, and choose her words wisely. Her responsibilities were to cook, clean and do anything that required her to better serve her husband.
If one treats these relationships with sincerity, benevolence and genuine concern, the lesser party will respond in a positive(deference and obedience) manner and harmony will be achieved.
These virtues were to be achieved through a broad education, rituals, ceremonies and filial piety. This education encompassed language, literature, history, philosophy and ethics as it applied to government. Filial Piety is respect for parents and senior members of family. The family was considered a mini model of political life to be governed by "Confucianism". To this day it is ingrained in education, government and culture.
Daoism- Its founder is Laozi, a 6th Cent. B.C.E. archivist. He wrote "Daodejing"(The Way and Its Power). Daoism is in opposite view of Confucianism. It is mor spontaneous, individualistic and natural. Its emphasis is on nature and its mysteries. The Dao is "Way of Nature", it meant withdrawal from self improvement, political and social activism. It defined life as circular.
The Dao and Confucianism are both embraced, unity of opposites, symbolized by a "yin & yang".
INDIA birthplace of Hinduism and Buddhism.
Hinduism- Has no historical founder and it did not seek converts. It grew from a particular people and territory. It is an amalgamation of influences, it reflects the diversity of the people who migrated or invaded the south Asian peninsula. Hinduism is based on the 'Vedas". The "Vedas" are a collection ancient poems, hymns, prayers and rituals. It was compiled by Brahmins(priests). The vedas were traditionally passed down orally, then in 600 B.C.E. it was written in Sanskrit. People became dissatisfied with the Brahmin's need for money to perform prayers and rituals. From this dissatisfaction grew the "Upanishads". The "Upanishads" were written by anonymous thinkers, it delved into the meaning of sacrifices in the Vedas, a more introspective thinking.
"Brahman" thinking is the idea of the World Soul, it is beyond reality and material objects. It is a primal unitary energy or divine reality. It is infusing of all things(similar to the Dao), our life as humans(sense if being) is an illusion.
Atman-is the individual human soul and is a part of Brahman. The goal in Hinduism is to reach Moksha. Moksha is the liberation, the union of Atman and Brahman. Reaching moksha ends the cycle of rebirth(is painful). How is one to achieve this goal? It is through Samsara. Samsara, considered rebirth or reincarnation. The soul migrates body to body, over many lifetimes. Depending on ones actions during his/her lifetime, your rebirth result will be determined. The caste you will be born into is dependent on your "karma". Moksha can also be achieved through knowledge and study and leading a spiritual life. Leading a spiritual life means, detachment of action in the world, doing work without regard to consequences, with passion and devotion to a deity, and meditation(such as a wandering ascetics, Brahmin priests).
Buddhism- emerged same time as Hinduism but it is distinct and separate. It was founded by Siddhartha Gautama( 566- 486 B.C.E.). He reached enlightenment at age 35, and was a Prince. His goal was understand "suffering and to end suffering". His idea was through modest living and leading a moral life one could reach enlightenment or "Nirvana". The state of nirvana is, no individual, no greed, no hatred or delusion.
Serenity is filled with love, kindness, compassion and ordinary life is an illusion(this idea originates from Hinduism). In Buddhism, release from rebirth can be achieved on a personal level and a Brahmin is not needed. Buddha did not believe in the caste system. He felt that everyone was responsible for his/her own spiritual development. Questions concerning God and creation were not relevant because it served no purpose to achieve enlightenment.
According Hinduism and based on the "Laws of Manu" the female child is subject to the father and the female youth to her husband. When the husband dies the wife is then subject to her sons. A women must never be independent. In Buddhism, women were allowed as nuns but were subordinate to monks. Nuns were allowed to run their own affairs, forbidden to do chores and were devoted to the "Awakening".
Several interpretations of Buddhism exist, but there are two main schools of thought:
Theravada-sees Buddha as a wise teacher and model. It is more psychological based, practices vs. beliefs. Individuals are responsible for themselves.
Mahayana(Great Vehicle)- believe in or follow, Bodhisattvas, spiritually developed people(super-beings). They are here to assist others to enlightenment. Buddha is seen as a God. This type of practice allows a greater amount of people to reach enlightenment, "Great Vehicle".
As Buddhism dies in India, Hinduism gets revived with some Buddhist influence. The emphasis is ordinary people could achieve enlightenment or Moksha, by performing everyday duties in their lives. Another path is, devotion of a God/ Goddess.
Monotheism- a single supreme deity responsible for creation and goodness a universal religion open to all mankind, negative aspect is it is exclusive and intolerant to other faiths and challenged polytheism.
ZOROATRIANISM originated from the Persian Empire. Founded by prophet Zarathustra(6-7 Cent. B.C.E.). Belief in one God, "Ahura Mazda", whom rules the world with all truth light and goodness. There will be a day of judgement, those who believe in Ahura Mazada will be granted eternal life in paradise, those who do not will be condemned to everlasting punishment. Its emphasis is on free will of humankind and its struggle to choose between Good and Evil is constant.
This faith spread to Egypt, Mesopotamia and Anatolia. But declined when Alexander the Great conquered them. Few survived and is still practiced today in India known as Parsis("Persians"). Despite the decline, its roots can be seen in Judaism, Christianity and Islamic religions.
JUDAISM traditions recorded in Old Testament. Hebrews migrated from Mesopotamia to Palestine, under the leadership of Abraham. A portion later fled to Egypt, where they were enslaved and later freed. They rejoined in Palestine, then split into to factions
North - Israel, assimilated into Assyrian culture
South - Judah, conquered by Babylonians but retained "Jewish" heritage.
Their God is known as Yahweh and its beliefs are based on the 10 Commandments. Yahweh is divine, but one could actively communicate with him. Singular, transcendent, personal, separate from nature, social justice and moral righteousness. No sacrifices and rituals.
Classical Greek and the Rational Order
Greeks were similar in thought to the Chinese, the world is a physical reality governed by natural laws. Humans through these natural laws choose a system of moral and ethical life. Cultural tradition is not based on religion, it is separate.
practices that existed;
secrete fertility cults
oracles-predict the future
mythology - Gods and Goddesses of Mt. Olympus
Greek thinkers were rational and non-religious in their quest for explaining reasoning:
Pythagoras-beneath chaos lay a foundation of unchangeable mathematical order
Hippocrates-"Humors", four fluids the body was composed of, ailments were cause when these fluids were out of balance.
Herodotus- men and humans are the reasons for conflict not the whims of Gods.
Plato- "The Republic", the basic design for a good society ruled by highly educated "Guardians" led by a "Philosopher-King".
Among all the Greek thinkers, Aristotle(384-322 B.C.E.) is the most prominent. He was student of Plato and teacher of Alexander the Great. He is known for the following: empirical observation, he cataloged the constitutions of 158 Greek city-states, identified over 100 of species of animals, wrote about logic, physics, astronomy, weather etc., on ethic's "virtue" could be trained and cultivated, and believed in a mixed system of government which combined principles of monarchy, aristocracy and democracy.
Jesus and Christianity
appears 500 yrs. after Confucius, Buddha and Zarathustra. He was a carpenter that came from a rural small-town. His emphasis was love and compassion, especially for the destitute. Christianity is not tolerant of other religions and it is not polytheistic but it does celebrate several saints. It does have some Jewish roots, such as the 10 Commandments. Christianity separates into two main factions, Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox.
Questions for Chapter 5 - Eurasian Cultural Traditions
1. Based on Confucianism, what tone is set regarding a woman's role?
A woman's role is to be subordinate to all male figures throughout her lifetime, to father, to husband and to son. To yield and be humble before them. To honor her chastity, not to gossip or cause trouble, clean and prepare meals - anything that is required to better serve her husband.
2. What are the differences of Hinduism vs. Buddhism?
Hinduism vs. Buddhism, there is some cross over themes, regards to "moksha" (enlightenment) and rebirth, "Samsara" and release from it. The differences lies in how one achieves this and the motivation behind it.
Hinduism has no historical founder and is built upon ancient text called the Vedas.It is caste based and its belief is what you do in your lifetime(karma) here on this earth will dictate what your outcome or rebirth will be. Also earlier belief was that enlightenment could only be achieved through Brahmins(priests), but this later evolves with the introduction of Buddhism. Enlightenment can be also achieved through ordinary duties and devotion to Gods/Goddesses.
Buddhism is founded by Siddhartha Gautama. It is based on idea of "suffering and its release from it. Buddhism is accessible to all mankind, and each is responsible for his/her own enlightenment. Buddhism does not believe in the caste system. Nirvana can be achieved without Brahmins but through a modest and moral life combined with meditation.
3. Who is Socrates?
His lifetime is approximately 469- 399 B.C.E. He was an Athenian philosopher, who exemplified Greek way of thinking. He did not write his thoughts, but preferred to teach through questioning. He questioned assumptions and logic of his students. He emphasized importance of wisdom and virtue. He challenged the wealth and the power. He also admired the Greek enemies, the Spartans. Socrates was accused of corrupting the youth and sentenced to death.
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