Make-up Assignments

[cgao]

Post your make-up assignment here.

[Benjamin Schwarting]

For my make-up assignment, I attended a lecture by Dr. Shelton Woods at Boise State University about the history of Qing Dynasty China and Meiji/Showa Era Japan. A good portion of this lecture focused on the complicated relationship between China and Japan and the growing tensions leading to the first Sino-Japanese War over control of the Korean Peninsula.

It was interesting to see how the tables turned between these two nations. Japan, historically, had struggled to compete with China, and in many ways had an inferiority complex that they constantly tried to kick: the Japanese central government went through many reformations to make its power and structure mirror China’s authority, religious and social overhauls incorporated Confucianism and Buddhism that Japan adopted from China, etc… But that all changed at the end of the Qing Dynasty.

Japan strove to emulate western modernity and colonialism, emphasizing military strength, national unity, and economic prowess. China, meanwhile, was emphasizing conservative adherence to Confucian ideals, condemning western nations as barbaric. While this did give Japan the ability to defeat China in both Sino-Japanese wars, it also sent Japan down a dark path that was extremely similar to the issues we see in modern China.

Essentially, when an undeveloped nation rushes to catch up with industrialized, colonial nations, they inevitably emphasize economic progress over sustainable practices. Without the boundaries of oversight or regulation, the environment deteriorates, pollution chokes resources, and quality of life declines. In this, Mao’s frustrations in making China a rich, powerful nation perfectly mirrored the Meiji Emperor’s frustrations in the late 1800’s.

[Virgina Jackson]

Originally posted on 2/25/20 in the "Museum Resources" section

The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum, established in 1996, is one of America’s foremost institutions dedicated to sharing the Chinese American experience, and to promoting Chinese art and culture. Centrally located in Downtown San Diego, the museum is a cultural force in San Diego and very true to its purpose and mission.  The mission of the museum is the following:

SDCHM's mission is to educate and inspire by preserving and celebrating the richness of Chinese history, art, culture, and the contributions of Chinese Americans.

SDCHM is extremely culturally rich, and its authenticity is reflective from its Executive Director to its Board, Staff and Volunteers.  The museum is very welcoming, and it makes you feel comfortable with all of its rich history and culture.  The exhibits, programming and ongoing educational opportunities are accessible to all in the San Diego region and beyond.  From its permanent exhibit about San Diego's historical Chinatown to its current exhibit about the history of San Diego's Chinese Laundries, the museum assures that it will keep the presence of China and its contributions in the forefront of the city.

SDCHM is a cultural breath of fresh air.  From presentations at the Arts Commissioners' meetings to the intertwining of historical and modern-day Chinese culture, the museum's impact is felt as soon as you walk through the doors.  So much so that on this particular visit, a high school senior was volunteering who, of Chinese descent, serves in such a role to learn more about his history.

San Diego is fortunate to have The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum - all stories need to be authentically shared.    

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