Compare and contrast the Babylonian Empire to the Hittite Empire

Babylonian empire was located in what is known as the Iraq region, and was established before Sargon of Akkad’s reign whose rule spanned from 2334-2279 BC and is credited with building of Babylon temples. It was founded after the collapse of Ur’s Third Dynasty (Vacín, 2008).  The political system was closely linked to the religion of this ancient city. There was early urban civilization in the empire whose endurance lasted from 18^th century to about 6^th century BC.  The urbanization in character and its basis was agriculture rather than trade. Kingship was the major leadership style at the top of the empires political system. The rise of this system resulted from the unification of Old Babylonian City states to the Babylonian City States, while primitive population centers in the lower part of the Tigro-Euphrates valley made contact among them to give rise to the Babylonian culture (International History, 2004).  The King was at the centre of the religion, and was considered closer to gods, while there were subordinates some of whom presided over the states.  The government established in the empire involved a large bureaucracy which served to bring to the attention of the king all information. The rule of the empire was the guardian of justice and he was involved in settling land disputes, contact disputes and other legal matters. The king’s will was the law while officials depended on the king. The religion practices also involved a priest who served as mediator between the gods and the people, with the deity’s favor being the at most desire of the people. The role of the religion was indispensible and inseparable to the life of Babylonians, while there various ritual restrictions whose violation would result to disaster to the people (Vacín, 2008).

 Agriculture was the major economic activity even though industry and trade had been highly developed like in Babylonia. There existed taxation systems that helped to protect revenues including offerings to the temples, customs duties and land taxes. There was a differentiation of labor with names of workers indicating the kind of occupation they were involved in.  In addition, the Babylonian empire had a well differentiated society based on economic activity and leadership. Slave population formed the lowest class and who were employed in farms and temples (International History, 2004). The slaves were protected from the rich class who owned land or property by the law that ensured there were no injury, were paid wages and against separation of children from parents.  The slaves were followed by free laborers in the social class, and then peasant farmers and the wealth merchants.  There were various contracts or agreement that ensured that the relationships among farmers, free laborers and merchants were maintained.  The society had become organized in towns which were protected by thick and high walls to protect against invasion by enemies. Family formed a very important part of the society (Vacín, 2008).

Unlike Babylonian empire, Hittite Empire emerged from occupation of various places like central Anatolia and making Hattusa their capital. Early kings consolidated the control of the Old Kingdom (1650-1620 BC) after conquest of other places Anatolia and Babylon (Cohen, Gilan, Miller & Singer, 2010). The political system was organized around Kingship with the king wielding complete authority. The Hittite King like the Babylonia King was the chief and military leader, a supreme judge and closed to the storm god on earth. Unlike the Babylonian king, the Hittite king was said to become a god upon his death (Guisepi, 2003).  The society of Hittite Empire was fundamentally agrarian and feudal, and the common people were either slaves, or artisans. This formed the major economic activity of the people, given that Anatolia had a lot of metals majorly iron and silver (Guisepi, 2003).  This can relate to their good skills in developing or building chariots and using them in battles.

While Babylonian formed strong trade and commerce culture, the Hittites industry concentrated on iron-working technology which helped to initiate the Stone Age.   The religion of this empire was different from Babylonian religion in that it was polytheism involving not only deities but also divinities of Hurrians and Syrians (Guisepi, 2003). Like the Babylonians, the religion formed an essential aspect of the social life with women particularly being part of it.  The King and the queen were high priest or priestesses even though their sister carried out certain religious ceremonies. As mentioned, the Hittites seems to have adopted these religious from the deities of the peoples they conquered.  The empire also involved a mixed art culture with composite of other cultures like Assyrian, Syrian, Phoenicians and Egyptian influences and motif (Guisepi, 2003). In addition, their culture placed a lot of importance to the family unit which was a basic part of the society.

The major similarities between the Babylonians and Hittites can be seen in their political organizations and social structures where kings had absolute authority while society was organized into hierarchical classes. The major differences are observed in economic activities and religious activities where Babylonians extended to trade and commerce while Hittites were experienced in iron-working. 

References

Vacín, L. (2008). The Babylonian world–Edited by Gwendolyn Leick. Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute, 14(4), 897-898.

Cohen, Y., Gilan, A., Miller, J. L., & Singer, I. (2010). Pax Hethitica: Studies on the Hittites and their neighbours in honour of Itamar Singer. Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz. 70-76

International History, (2004). Babylonia, A history of ancient Babylon (Babylonia) including its cities,  laws, kings and legacy to civilization. Retrieved from: http://history-world.org/babylonia.htm

Guisepi,R. (2003). A history of the Hittites including their cities, kings, art and contributions to civilization. Retrieved from: http://history-world.org/hittites.htm

World War I

1. German Artists as War Veterans in World War I

As most Germans ran away from the war, artists participated in the war, in order to be able to capture different images. Most artists such as Dix, were on the front line, during the First World War, in order to make sure that the country regained what it thought was rightfully its own (Jonathan, 58). Most artists participated in the war, and consequently showed the world, the art of patriotism because of the love of art since they were artists. Most artists such as Ernst Ludwig joined the army in the year 1914, but was not however able to continue with the work, due to mental collapse. While in the battlefield Dix could not feel any form of guilt, and he consequently carried on with his work as a soldier. He met a lot of corpses while walking on the battlefield, but this did not in any way affect him. He kept the memories of what he saw on his mind, thus making him not to forget.

After returning home from the war, Dix suffered posttraumatic disorders, as he could be able to clearly see the images of the dead soldiers. This consequently affected him, since he had not experienced such things while in the battlefield (Jonathan, 58). In order to be able to control this, Dix resulted into painting whatever images came into his mind. Through the use of those images, Dix was able to show the world what was actually happening in the battlefield, and how the life in the battlefield really is. For instance, Dix painted an image of a skull with its helmet still on the head, with no eyes, but surrounded by a lot of maggots. This consequently shows how the battlefield was, with dead bodies being separated from other parts of the body being scattered all over the battlefield.

In a different image, Dix has painted soldiers wearing gasmasks while advancing under a gas attack. This consequently shows what the soldiers used to do while in the battlefield. The soldiers seem to be celebrating after winning a battle against some of their enemies. There is also an image whereby the soldiers are inside a whole which looks like a tarvan, and they are slaying people using their swords (Jonathan, 60). While other soldiers are slaying the people, others are busy drinking some liquid looks like alcohol. This is an image which seeks to explain what soldiers did while in the battlefield, which included killing innocent people and destroying property.

1. Comparison between Erich Maria Remarque’s All Quiet on the Western Front and Ernst Juenger’s Storm of Steel

Erich Maria’s All Quiet on the Western Front, talks about the war and how the soldiers feel before and after joining the army. Paul, who is a soldier in the Western front, was impressed before the joining the army, as one of their lecturers talked about being patriotic as a soldier. Paul together with his classmates joined the army, knowing that they would be patriotic citizens to serve their country (Remarque, 56). After being recruited into the army, Paul together with his friends realized how bad joining the army was. This was after falling into the hands of Corporal Himelstoss, who was very cruel. After being deployed to fight, Paul together with his classmates in the front realized how bad it was for them to have joined the army. They consequently met dead people, and most of the front members lost their lives during the war. Paul realized he had made the worst decision, since he could feel the guilt of killing other people. People who looked very innocent to him. At one time Paul stabbed a French soldier with a knife, and he later on came to realize that the soldier had a son and a wife, he could not help but feel guilty. This consequently made him to hate making the decision of being a soldier.

Ernst Juenger’s Storm of Steel, consequently speaks about what soldiers see and how they feel while in the battle field. According to Juenger, while in the battle field, he could not be able to feel any form of sympathy, and he would consequently kill the enemies without feeling guilty at all. As opposed to Paul’s feeling of guilt in the All Quiet on the Western Front, Juenger could not feel guilty, a move which motivated him to continue killing his enemies. As Juenger states, he felt nothing such as guilty, and he would continue killing all the enemies, since he could not be able to feel guilty over someone who could also kill him (Jünger & Michael, 23). Juenger does not understand how his heart used to change, hence becoming very courageous to easily kill without the fear of feeling guilty or being haunted later. Juenger consequently enjoyed his work as a soldier, and he did not see anything bad with being a soldier.

1. Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms

Hemingway reacts to the war negatively, stating that the war is nothing better than dark, homicidal extensions of a world which has refused to protect, preserve and protect true love. People are only concerned with their self-interests, and they will consequently do anything in order to better their interests (Ernest, 84). The world has consequently been divided by hate and greed, which seems better than love, hence making people to kill in order to be perceived as better compared to others. The world has been turned into a battlefield where the poor are killed while the rich who started the war are enjoying themselves, making others to suffer for their own interests. Greed has consequently taken over the world, love has been turned into hate, and no one wants to love, since love leads to poverty, and hatred makes people rich. Everybody is now running in order to get his own share of wealth in the war, through causing deaths.

The theme of love in the time of war is ironic, whereby Catherine seduces Henry, even before tell him that she is mourning the death her fiancé’. Catherine tries to distance herself from pain and suffering through entering into a relationship with Henry, even at a time when she is supposed to be mourning the death of her fiancé’.  On the other hand, Henry also wants to distance himself from the talk of the war, through getting into a relationship with Catherine at such a time. This is very funny, since Catherine is supposed to be thinking about her future now that her fiancé’ is dead, but she decides to seduce Henry (Ernest, 85). Henry, who is a soldier, also supposed to think about the ways through which they can be able to end the war, other than focusing on a relationship, rather than protecting the lives of other people. This theme consequently depicts the real behavior of human beings, as they are only concerned with their interests, and satisfying their heart desires. The two love birds, are only concerned with their relationship, instead of looking for possible ways of saving the country from the attack. When Henry realizes how much he loves Catherine, he decides to flee from the country in pursuit of Catherine, at the expense of innocent people who depend on soldiers such as Henry for protection.

1. The Rise of Adolf Hitler and Nazism

After the end of First World War, Adolf Hitler was against the Weimlar Republic and the Treaty of Versailles. Hitler was not in good terms with the current government, as it had allowed other countries, through signing the treaty of Versailles, to take large tracks of land from Germany. This were the things which Hitler considered as betrayal from their ruling party. In the year 1919, Hitler joined Deutsche Arbeiterpartei party (DAP). The party later changed its name to Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei (NSDAP), which meant the National Socialist German Workers’ Party, and was usually referred to as the Nazi Party (Rinderle & Bernard, 35). The party consequently advocated for nationalism and Pan-Germanism. During this period, most Germans were not impressed by the government’s action of signing the treaty of Versailles, hence leading to the loss of their land.

Hitler’s rise consequently ended in the year 1933 after he was appointed as a Chancellor by President Paul Von Hindenburg after a sequence of parliamentary elections. In the same year, the Reichstag implemented the Enabling Act of the year 1933 (Rinderle & Bernard, 35). When this act was used in the wrong way and with total authority, it could become ruthless. The act consequently assured Hitler he could be able to exercise dictatorship without any problems, since it was legal as stipulated in the act. Hitler consequently blackmailed other party members to make him the party leader, since he was a good speaker, failure to which he would exit the party and would never return.

Most party members offered Hitler support, since he had decided to use violence against the ruling party. In the year 1930, through Hitler’s proper use of his tongue, he was able to convince most electorates to support the party, thus making the party to become the largest party in Germany (Rinderle & Bernard, 37). Hitler’s used his gift of speaking as a means of lying to the electorates, through his cunning ways of speaking, he was able to attract most supporters, thus making the party to be very popular. After getting into power, the Nazis described that period as the time of struggle. Adolf Hitler consequently viewed other countries as traitors, and decided to work very hard in order to be able to revenge on the atrocities committed against the Germans. Hitler used propaganda against foreigners in the country, a move which allowed him to be able to kill the Jews in the country, and a tone of other immigrants as a means of revenge.

Personalities

1. Dhimmitude: A term used to refer to non-Muslims living in an Islamic country
2. Allenby: British soldier and Imperial Governor.
3. Chaim Weitzman: former Israeli president and a Zionist leader.
4. “stab in the back”: it was a legend which was used by the Nazis when defeated.
5. David Lloyd George: A British statesman who became the prime minister during the First World War.

Work Cited

Jünger, Ernst, and Michael Hofmann. Storm of Steel. , 2016. Print.

Remarque, Erich M, and A W. Wheen. All Quiet on the Western Front: A Novel. , 2013. Internet resource.

Ernest Hemingway. A Farewell to Arms: A Division of Simon & Schuster, Inc. 2012.

Rinderle, Walter, and Bernard Norling. The Nazi Impact on a German Village. Lexington: University Press of Kentucky, 1993. Internet resource.

Jonathan, Jones. The First World War in German art: Otto Dix’s first-hand Visions of Horror: The Gurdian. 2014. Print.

Westward Expansion

Over the years, the state of the US cities kept changing from time to time, due to the industrial revolution which was being witnessed in the world. Different countries in Europe were now becoming industrialized, a move which consequently made countries such as the US to become industrialized in order to be able to manufacture different products. In the 1860-1870 periods, the US seemed to be a small developing country which was trying to look for possible ways of becoming developed (Bruhn, 2011). The country only hard small railroads, whereby they moved to designated areas only and not in different parts of the US. This consequently limited the flow of goods from one area to another (Buder, 2009).

Major cities in the country were not highly industrialized, making activities in such cities to be scattered. In addition, there were huge tracks of land which had been left bare, thus making the cities to look dormant (Montoya et al, 2018). The city of New York, for instance looked as if it was a small city which had different activities scattered in different areas. One could not be able to distinguish the activities which were taking place in major cities, since different activities had been scattered in the cities. The road systems in that period were not that good, since the country only had major roads (Buder, 2009). These major roads were used for linking major cities in the country. Minor roads in the country were less as compared to major roads, since the country had no use of such roads.

The agricultural systems were not that good, since few rural areas had been dominated by agricultural practices (Bruhn, 2011). This consequently made the country to look green, since most of its land had not been put into good use. Authorities in different states did not seem functional, since the country only concentrated on urban areas, forgetting about rural areas. These was consequently the period when the US was developing and the country majorly concentrated on improving the state of its major cities.

In the periods of 1870-1880, industrialization kicked in, a move which consequently saw the country developing massively (Montoya et al, 2018). There was an emergence of railway barons during this period, who made sure that railways lines traversed each and every corner of the country. This was a move of making the transportation of goods and products easy, so us to improve the performance of the country. For instance, J. Edgar Thompson, came up with a strategy of consolidating small railroads into major railroads (Buder, 2009). Thompson therefore consolidated the Ohio and Pennsylvania railroad into one major railroad. This major rail road would therefore be used for the transportation of raw materials from Ohio and Pennsylvania directly to the sea port where they could be imported.

The rail barons became very rich, due to the ways through which they could be able to easily transport their manufactured products to other parts of the world. The developments of the railway systems led to an increase in immigration, whereby most people travelled from the as far as Europe in order to work in the US (Bruhn, 2011). The country witnessed a high number of immigrants, particularly thee Jews who had fled from Germany due to the atrocities which were being witnessed against them. Italians also moved into the country in order to be able to secure good jobs. Word had reached different parts of the world that the US had become a good place where high paying jobs were easy to find.

The immigrants moved into the country, where they offered cheap labor, which consequently led to the growth of major cities. Most immigrants participated in the building and construction sectors, where they helped in the construction of bridges and roads thus making it easy for the country to develop (Bruhn, 2011). These immigrants mainly lived in urban areas, a move which made urban areas to grow rapidly. The face of major cities changed and more and more buildings were built in order to cater for the increasing population of both the immigrants and the Native Americans. Major cities became concentrated and high populated, since different activities were taking place in them (Buder, 2009). Different activities became concentrated in major cities, and roads linking major cities with rural areas also started being built.

This was also the era within which the country started investing massively in agriculture. Different States such as California and Texas became the main producers of agricultural products (Montoya et al, 2018). These states were therefore responsible for the production of agricultural products, since they had adopted the use of farm mechanization. California, Florida and Texas practiced large scale farming, where the farm produce were usually transported by either rail or road to Chicago for packaging. The country was now being turned into an agricultural estate, since most of its food supplies came from within the country (Buder, 2009). The state authorities became serious with their work, and they consequently fostered developments in their areas, where they made it possible for the construction of roads and communication systems in order to better the flow of produce from rural areas into urban area. This was consequently the period when the US had started becoming lively, with different activities taking place in a conducive way.

In the 1880-1890 period, the US started experiencing massive changes in its industrial systems. The country adopted the use machines in each and every sector, in order to reduce the time taken in the production of different services (Bruhn, 2011). This was a move which allowed the country to be able to grow significantly, since most people could therefore be able to reduce the consumption of time taken while working. In addition, machines replaced hard jobs, making it easier for more work to be done within the shortest time possible (Buder, 2009). Major cities became the centers of developments in the country, since most industries were in the cities. In addition, local authorities were created in order to allow them to control the activities which were taking place in the areas.

Agriculture became one of the significant activities in the country, since the country was able to consume the agricultural produce, and export surplus agricultural produce. Moreover, railway became the main driver of developments in the country, since most agricultural produce could be transported from the farm to the industries for packaging through the railway (Montoya et al, 2018). The developments of roads in the country became tremendous, since roads from different parts of the country were supposed to link with the railway. The face of the country changed, the living standards of the people were also raised, since most of them were able to sustain themselves through the jobs the salaries they received.

Reference

Bruhn, J. G. (2011). The Sociology of Community Connections. Dordrecht: Springer Science+Business Media B.V.

Montoya, M. E., Belmonte, L. A., Guarneri, C., Hackel, S. W., Hartigan-O'Connor, E., & Kurashige, L. (2018). Global Americans: A history of the United States.

Buder, S. (2009). Capitalizing on change: A social history of American business. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press.

Westward Expansion, 1860-1890. Retrieved from: http://www.pbslearningmedia.org/asset/akh10_int_expansion/ 

The Coquette and Hope Leslie

The Early Times in the Massachusetts also known as Hope Leslie is a novel written by Catherine Maria Sedgwick in 1827. Among the books written by that time, this book has been considered more important because of its strong ideas of equity and fairness as well as the feminism theme it promotes toward Native Americans. On the other hand, the history of Eliza Wharton or the coquette a type of novel called epistolary published in 1797 by Hannah Foster Webster express the theme of love, gender, and friendship.     

1. What feature(s) or element(s) did you most enjoy about Foster’s The Coquette? Why?

In foster’s the coquette there is unique and fascinating employment of different stylistic devices as well as features and elements right from plot, to theme, to characterization, tone and manifestation of the conflict therein. First and foremost, at the beginning of the story foster employs religious language, sounds and colors that give a mood expression of a religious setting or ambient atmosphere of Christian community. In addition, the genre itself is classic and fester’s point of view in this novel literally took the angle of the multiple first person narrators through the use of letters (Foster 25).

Another interesting element in the novel is the buildup on the novel’s climax and major conflict. Foster’s style of escalating the major conflict that has been underlying and mild overtime is very interesting. In the course of her writing, she reveals the conflict in the story of whether or not Eliza will accept the marriage proposal and be seduced by the major Sanford, the wile of the known libertine, which she considered as bringing shame to herself and losing her virtue. The discovery by Mr. Boyer about Eliza inappropriate misbehaviors with Major Sanford that prompt him to break off their engagement makes the climax in this novel (Foster 40).

The use of mood and tone in the novel is also high class and interesting, the author keep shifting the tone of the story that makes the story so interesting. Fester’s shifts the story from letter to letter throughout the novel that is from anxious to glee to elation to moralizing to ennui to despair. The characters are clearly defined; the protagonist and the antagonist. The themes in the story in the story are clearly manifested hence making the novel interesting and worth educative, such as marriage, gender, and friendship.

2. Do you think The Coquette would be a better novel if it were written as standard narrative rather than in epistolary form? Why or why not?

Primarily, there was no a better form to write the novel, the coquette that the epistolary form. Insofar as the epistolary form is an ancient or an old form of novel writing that involve the use of letters written between and by the characters to make the plot, it has numerous advantages over the standard narrative.

The most significant one regarding this novel by Foster is the fact that the reader to the letters in this form of novel writing is privy to the private feeling and thoughts of the character and the writer including the setting, plot, and themes of the narrative. The advantage is manifested in realization of Eliza’s reluctance in accepting the marriage proposal from the clergyman, Major Stanford.  

Moreover, this style also enhances the presentation of the events in the novel from several points of view, which lends the story verisimilitude and dimensions as in the case of Eliza and Major Stanford marriage plan. More importantly also is the fact that this style made the literal work or the story more realistic psychologically and penetrating as a result of its reliance on subjective points of view, unlike, the standard narrative hence making epistolary style more appropriate even as it was the style used in this novel.

3. Why does Hope Leslie begin as it does—with a story of jilted love followed by narratives of white and Indian brutality?

The main character hope had to surface with authority and audacity, and focus to her vision, since she was coming in at a time when the feminism and discrimination of women was at its peak in the society (Sedgwick 100). In addition, she was also surfacing at a time when the cultural customs were strong and dictated people’s decisions including the aspects of marriage and love.      

4. How satisfying is the ending of the novel for you? Why?   

Personally, the end of the novel is satisfactory basing my argument on the major occurrences and issues in the entire novel. Since the major themes that emanate from this story primarily revolve around love and independence and to some extend the role of women in power and authority, these entire themes have been build and the story ends when every theme is realized. All the characters have the chance to escape from the status quo to gain their freedom and desire. Hope surfacing in a male dominated society fights her way out though the difficult cultural background and the end the “Love conquered all”              

Works cited

Sedgwick, Catharine Maria. Hope Leslie. 1st ed., London, Penguin, 1999,

Foster, Hannah Webster, and Cathy N Davidson. Coquette (Early American Women Writers). 1st ed., Oxford University Press, 1986,.

John D. Rockefeller, was born on July 8, in the year 1839, in New York. He was a very hardworking and business oriented person, a move which consequently made him to earn money through raising turkeys, doing jobs for neighbors, and selling candy. John studied bookkeeping as soon as his family moved to Cleveland in Ohio (Rockefeller, 2015). In the year 1885, at the age of 16 years, a Cleveland Commission firm employed him as an office clerk. The firm bought, shipped and sold, coal, grain and other types of commodities. In the year 1859, Rockefeller together with his partner came together and started their own firm.

In the year 1863, Rockefeller, together with other partners, entered the new oil industry, through investing in one of the Cleveland refineries. In the year 1864, Rockefeller made the best decision in his life, through marrying Laura Celestia, whose father was a wealthy merchant, a politician and also an adversary who was active in the Underground Railroad (Rockefeller, 2015). In the year 1865, Rockefeller borrowed money from his friends and family, where he bought out some of his partners’ stakes in the oil company, thus making him to take total control of the refinery. After a few years, Rockefeller acquired new partners who helped in growing the oil industry. During that time, Kerosene, which was derived from petroleum had become one of the bestselling commodities in the country. In the year 1870, Rockefeller together with his younger brother formed an oil company in Ohio, which was commonly known as the Standard Oil Company. Rockefeller became the major shareholder in the company, hence becoming the company’s president.

Reference

Rockefeller, J. D. (2015). John D. Rockefeller on making money: Advice and words of wisdom on building and sharing wealth. New York: Skyhorse Publishing.

The use of the Atomic Bomb in World War II

Introduction

The use of atomic bomb in World War II had negative effects on both the Japanese and the environment in general. This was the period when the atomic bomb proved to be more than just a bomb. The bomb was very reactive, and this was consequently witnessed after bombing Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Most people suffered, and there are those who are still suffering up to date due to the effects of the atomic bomb. Prior to the US attack in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the League of Nations had reached a resolution against bombing from the air, since it would result in the death of innocent civilians. The League of Nations consequently agreed that bombing from the air was against the law, and in case of such an action, the innocent civilians should be warned before dropping the bomb. This paper is consequently going to argue against the use of atomic bombs.

During the World War II in the year 1945, the US bombed Japan, in a bid to persuade the country to surrender from the war (Southard, 2015). Two towns in Japan that is, Hiroshima and Nagasaki were bombed, and the weapon used was the nuclear bomb. Most of the people who lost their lives during the attack were the civilians. It was estimated that the twin bombs killed more than 700,000 civilians (Wilson, 2014). The civilians were unarmed, and they did therefore pose any threat to the US army. This was a very wrong move which was taken by the US, since the country went against the dictates of the League of Nation.

According to the dictates of the League of Nations, the US should have first and foremost warned the civilians before launching the attack. This could have really helped in reducing the casualties witnessed during the attack (Southard, 2015). Moreover, since the US had learnt that Japan was looking for an opportunity of surrendering, they country should have used an alternative means of attacking the Japan rather than using the atomic bomb. On the other hand, this was a new weapon which the US was using, and it did not consequently understand the effectiveness of the bomb (Wilson, 2014). The bomb was dropped without the knowledge of how effective the bomb could have been.

The US could have either warned the civilians, or otherwise looked for an alternative way of bombing Japan, so as to reduce collateral damage. In this case, the US government acted dumb, and it did not therefore consider the lives of the innocent civilians before dropping the bomb (Southard, 2015). The bomb seemed to be very effective, a move which led to death of a huge number of people. Moreover, after the explosion, atoms of the bomb still affect those who live in the areas where the bombs were dropped (Wilson, 2014). This has consequently led to the increase in likelihood of contracting terminal diseases by those who live in such areas.

Conclusion

Bombs should not be dropped from the air, without the knowledge of the civilians, as this may result in the deaths of innocent civilians. In addition, the use of air attack should be the last option, if other measures have been used without bearing fruits. The US went against the resolutions of the League of Nations, when it bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The country did not think about the effects of the bomb, neither did it consider the lives of the innocent civilians before dropping the bomb. This move consequently led to the death of huge number of innocent civilians in Japan.

Reference

Southard, S. (2015). Nagasaki: Life after nuclear war.

Wilson, R. G. (2014). Nuclear war: Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and a workable moral strategy for achieving and preserving world peace. Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse.

The US and the Cold War

The Cold war was basically a world supremacy conflict. After the end of the World War II, there were only two countries which stood as the world’s superpowers (Kotlowski, 2011). Each of the two countries had its own economic and political ideologies, and strategic interests, hence a conflict between the two countries was inevitable (Cooley, 2014). This competition was the main cause of the cold War, and since both countries did not want to give up and concede defeat, the conflict was staged to continue for as long as the two parties continued dominating as the super powers.

When the Soviet Union, which is currently known as Russia, began to proclaim its control of Eastern Europe, the expansion of communism became the main concern of the US (Kotlowski, 2011). The US government consequently became afraid of the domination of communism, and it thought that since the Soviet power was growing, this move could cause a revolution to the Western parts of Europe. This revolution would then spread in different parts of Western Europe, and finally into the US. According to the US, this danger was very high, since communist parties were existing in the Western Hemisphere (Cooley, 2014). In addition, the communist states had been isolated from the other parts of the world. This isolation really affected the US government, since such states would easily support the Soviet Union’s revolution.

Cold war was basically rooted in the fear of the domination of communism. In order to avoid such a possibility, the US had to come up with measures of blocking the growth and expansion of the communist ideology. This type of war was not consequently started unknowingly, but it was a well-planned type of war, which the US was using in order to be able to bring to an end the domination of communism in Europe (Cooley, 2014). In the year 1946, President Winston Churchill delivered a speech in the town of Fulton, Missouri, pointing out the dangers which the Western democracies were on the danger of being dominated by communism. The President therefore requested for a close Anglo-American alliance, in order to protect their interests. During this period, the US could blackmail the Soviet Union through the use of the Atomic bomb, since the Soviet Union had atomic bombs too (Kotlowski, 2011).

On the other hand, since the Soviet Union had not staged up a threat or otherwise a war, the US had to use a defensive mechanism. In the year 1947 President Truman announced the Truman Doctrine, due to his security concerns of Turkey and Greece. The US also offered to support any free nations to fight against any attempts of suppression (Cooley, 2014). This consequently meant that the US was aimed at doing anything possible, in order to contain the expansion of communism. The US was more than determined to dominate the world, and nothing could stop the country from being able to dominate the world. Moreover, the US planned to use propaganda as a means of awakening the Europeans, thus making them to do away with communism (Kotlowski, 2011). Furthermore, since the Soviet Union was a country which was well prepared for war, the US had no other alternative but to use propaganda as a means of stopping the domination of communism in the world. The ideologies of the Soviet Union were good, but this move could have resulted in the end of the U.S.A as a super power.

Reference

Cooley, W. (2014). Communism, the cold war, and a company town: the rise and fall of UE Local 709. Labor History, 55(1), 67-96. doi:10.1080/0023656X.2013.843839

Kotlowski, D. J. (2011). The First Cold War Liberal? Paul V. McNutt and the Idea of Security from the 1920s to the 1940s. Journal Of Policy History, 23(4), 540-585. doi:10.1017/S0898030611000297

The Culture of Saudi Arabians in the 17^th Century, and the Modern Culture of the Turkish

The Saudi Arabian Culture in 17^th Century

The ancient Saudi Arabia was basically influenced by the Islamic religion, hence their culture relied on the dictates of the Islamic religion. In the 17^th century, Arabic language was the main means of communication, and the Saudi Arabians consequently conducted themselves based on the dictates of the Islamic religion. Women used to wear a Burqa or Chadari, a type of dress which covered the whole body except the eyes. This was the type of cloth which was mainly worn by young ladies who were not married (Etheredge, 2011). They were supposed to wear such dresses in order to prevent married men from admiring them. Married women wore Chador, a type of cloth which covered the whole body, with a hijab. The women’s faces were not covered, a thing which symbolized marriage. On the other hand, men wore robs, with a well-rounded turban on their heads.

The Saudi Arabians socialized with each other freely, the issues of race or ethnicity were not an issue in the country, since all the Saudi Arabians were inclined to the same language and religion. However, the concept of origin was usually taken seriously, with those in Hijaz being recognized as the descendants of Mohammed. The descendants of Mohammed are commonly known as Ashraf (Etheredge, 2011). The Arabian origins were usually taken seriously, and they could consequently be used to distinguish the Saudi Arabians. When it comes of families, men were allowed to perform polygamous marriages. The religion allowed polygamous marriages, in order to increase the number of descendants of Mohammed in the world. Moreover, this was a means of discouraging men from committing adultery, hence making them to remain loyal to their partners. Saudi Arabians consequently loved meat, and they would therefore eat meat on special events. Their ordinary meals consisted of fruits and bread, alcohol was however forbidden in the country.

The ancient Saudi Arabian architecture resembled that of the Egyptian, since of the buildings were made out of sunbaked bricks. The buildings were straight, and had curvatures which looked similar to that of the mosque. Houses were built closely together, in order to be able to cater for the ever increasing population (Etheredge, 2011). In addition, most houses were built near oases and water bodies, since water was used in the construction of the buildings. Moreover, some buildings were built on top of mountains, in order to be able to get a clear view of different areas in case of an attack. This was basically so, consequently because Saudi Arabia had been frequently attacked by its enemies.

Modern Culture of Turkey

            Turkey is an Arab country, however, Turkish is the national language of the country. Turkish language is spoken by 90% of the population, whereas 1.2% of the Turkish population speaks Arab. On the other hand, most Turks are bilingual speakers, and they consequently speak both Turkish and Arab. However, Turkey is a country with a very diverse culture, due to different nationalities in the country. Islam is the dominant religion in the country, since most people are Muslims in Turkey (Scott, 2014). Turks therefore pray five times a day according to the dictates of the Islamic religion. They consequently pray at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset and evening. Nonetheless, most males tend to attend the afternoon congregational prayers. All Muslims in the country fast in the holy month of Ramadhan in the country.

            The way of life of Turks is different from that of Islamic countries in the world, since the country is more of a secular Islamic country. Most Turks have copied the way of life of the Europeans, since country lies in between the Middle East and Europe (Scott, 2014). Their mode of dressing is slightly similar to that of the Europeans, even though women from rural areas tend to wear a hijab. In urban areas, the Turks dress in a similar way to the Europeans. In addition, different forms of entertainment which are illegal in Arab countries are also legal in Turkey. The Turks grow berries, which are responsible for the production of wine. They manufacture wine, but they are prohibited from drinking alcoholic drinks. Moreover, they only eat halaal approved animal products.

            However, the Turks have some forms of etiquette, and this includes the meeting and greeting etiquette. When people meet in Turkey, they shakes hands, and while departing it is not a must to shake hands but most people tend to do so (Scott, 2014). In addition, when entering a room, one is supposed to greet the most senior person in the room first. When it comes to gift giving etiquette, when a gift is given, it must be well appreciated. When foreigners move into Turkey, they are supposed to carry with them gifts which include food, and craft items. This is however not a must, but it is highly appreciated in the country.

Reference

Etheredge, L. (2011). Saudi Arabia and Yemen. New York, NY: Britannica Educational Pub. in association with Rosen Educational Services.

Scott, A. (2014). Turkish awakening: A personal discovery of modern Turkey.

Introduction

Q2. After World War 2, Japan gained a greater economic power which was derived from occupational forces. In 1945 and 1952, Douglas A. Mac Arthur led the U.S forces and enacted socioeconomic and political reforms. In 1945, the allied powers including the U.S implemented indirect rule to Japan. Prior to the reform policies, the Supreme Commander Douglas Mac Arthur prevented the production of military by developing economic demilitarization. In 1947 when MacArthur implemented economic demilitarization, Japan created the Constitution. During this period, Japan had no military power or defense forces but rather it used outside forces from U.S.   

Thesis: Although both the Japanese and the Americans claims to have influenced the economic growth in Japan the United States occupation in Japan established reform policies to recover and reconstruct State as well as the economy. Reform policies from U.S occupation were Zaibatsu break up, labor democratization and land reform. These reforming policies held great effect in modernization and democratization of the nation thus impacting its capability for growth.

The argument  with Japanese is that  they brought an amazing economic growth  which was influenced by  application of  knowledge  and  skills  in the economic  system[1].  The point is that the reform policies from the American forces were not enough to bring economic recovery and for that reason, Japan ready had their unique and dependent plans for recovery after the defeat.  After the  World War 2, Japan’s economy was destroyed and  the country  needed economic reconstruction.  Even though U.S implemented three major reforms,   Japan had the plan on developing economy and preparing the country for the Cold war. In the period of 1947, Joseph Dodge implemented the Dodge plan which was effective for providing the country will full strength in solving the economic problems on inflation[2].   The Doge plan developed a balanced budget, elimination of new loan which increased inflation and reduction of subsidies.

  The important point to note is that the Dodge plan caused recession and labor unrest but the economy was influenced by the Korean War. During the period of 1950-1951, Japan had recovered from economic recession and it experienced a significant boom.  The economy effect after the Second World War decreased the international competition but after the Korean War, Japan had technological innovation and achieved recovery and stabilization. Other point is that in 1950s-1070s, cumulative effort from Japanese was also significant in improving the economy.  People were able to apply imported skills and knowledge   in the economic system. Through technological-know how, Japan had numerous technology which led to industrial growth such as steel industry. The economy was also influenced by the economy policies which were implemented by the policy-making authorities.  In other words, the political system played a significant role in developing the economy by implementing the Yoshida Doctrine which led to economic reconstruction through saving military expenses. The policy created the Japan’s contemporary diplomatic identity and a complete recovery.  Other strategy was Income Doubling Plan which doubled the income of Japanese workers and accumulating private and public forms investments.  The Ministry of International Trade and Industry in Japan led to rapid expansion by creating private business initiatives which were associated with long-term success[3].  Steel industry, chemical industry and others entered in the international markets and applied technological knowledge thereby promoting economic growth.  

 In 1868-1912, feminists’ consciousness led to human rights and modernization of Japan in 1887[4].  During 19^th century, idealists and advocates had the interest   in shaping the political and economic issues.  They focused on reconstructing the constitution and creating political reforms which could eliminate the inequality.  During 1894-1895 between China and Japan, women were in the front line to define roles in the society and to inform the government the necessary social changes which would be implemented[5].  In 1886, men and women had joined forced and they were interested in reforming the social practices especially the major problem of the sexual abuse.  In 1869, political and economic policies which were made after Meiji Restoration led to division of labor in the households[6].  Men, women and children were affected but in 20^th century, the government played a significant role in shaping the role of the women.  Generally, the household division reflects on the women history and their role in production and reproduction. Japan had diversity of local practices and during the Tokiugawa period, women role led to economic development especially in preindustrial agriculture[7].

 Even though Japan implemented   domestic factors and technology for industrial development, allied forces played a big role in bringing economy recovery.  Indeed, Japan knew U.S as the Supreme Commander of the Allied Powers (SCAP) since U.S led to effectiveness in different ways[8].  In this case, SCAP was Douglas MacArthur who implemented reform policies for economy recovery. Prior to reform policies, Douglas formed the Japan Constitution in 1947. Prior to the formation, Macarthur had developed economic demilitarization and after the creation of the constitution, Japan had the power of military forces[9].  Apart from demilitarization, U.S occupation led to three major reforms policies which not only developed the economy but also democratized the nation.  First, U.S led to the zaibatsu breakup inform of destroying the holding companies and creation of Anti-Monopoly Law which was responsible for banning cartel activities.  Zaibatsu breakup also allowed the creation of Decentralization Law which reduced the number of companies with market control[10].  U.S occupation led to land reform which democratized the nation.  The land reform also brought the transfer of land ownership and developed tenancy practices for farmers.  Prior to the establishment of land reform policy, owner-operated land was 54% but the change increased the number to 90%[11]. Japan recovery was achieved in an effective away through the elimination of feudalistic state and the nation’s interest in modernizing Japan.  The third historical event which led to economy recovery in Japan is labor democratization.  This led to development of labor unions and the growth of labor union was high given that in 1948-1949, it was 60%[12]. This was also influenced by the zaibatsu breakup which allowed the allied force to implement the Trade Union Law. The latter allowed workers to work in private industry and to participate in collective bargaining and strike.  The law also developed good working condition and higher unions which in turn led to domestic consumption and economic development[13].

 Conclusion

Both Japan and U.S played role in creating economic recovery.  However, the important point to understand is that U.S was a powerful nation as it brought reforms which led to recovery.  In other words, U.S brought guidance and control which led to a powerful constitution responsible for the creation of superpowers. Even though Japan established the Dodge plan in 1948 which controlled inflation and stabilized the nation, U.S occupation led to profound changes. Indeed, U.S main goal in economic recovery was to establish a new constitution which would encompass important aspects.  The constitution   was responsible for woman’s right, labor unions, income distribution, land ownership and elimination of child labor.  Thus, the point is that U.S occupation made Japan to benefit not only economically but also socially and military.

Work cited

 Caprio E. Mark& Yoneyuki Sugita Yoneyuki. Democracy in Occupied Japan: The U.S. Occupation and

Japanese Politics and Society. Volume 10 of Routledge Studies in Asia's Transformations. 2007

Sievers, Sharon L. Flowers in Salt: The Beginnings of Feminist Consciousness in Modern Japan. Stanford,

Calif: Stanford University Press, 1983. Print.

Bernstein, Gail L. Recreating Japanese Women, 1600-1945. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1991.

Print.

Dower, John W. Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Wake of World War Ii. New York: W.W. Norton &

Co/New Press, 1999. Print.

Yokoi Noriko. Japan's Postwar Economic Recovery and Anglo-Japanese Relations, 1948-1962

Routledge Studies in the Modern History of Asia. 2004

[1] Yokoi Noriko. Japan's Postwar Economic Recovery and Anglo-Japanese Relations, 1948-1962
Routledge Studies in the Modern History of Asia. 2004 (16).

[2] Ibid (16)

[3] Ibid (20).

[4] Sievers, Sharon L. Flowers in Salt: The Beginnings of Feminist Consciousness in Modern Japan. Stanford, Calif: Stanford University Press, 1983. Print. (10)

[5] Ibid (26)

[6] Bernstein, Gail L. Recreating Japanese Women, 1600-1945. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1991. Print. (42)

[7] Ibid (42)

[8] Dower, John W. Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Wake of World War Ii. New York: W.W. Norton & Co/New Press, 1999. Print. (23)

[9] Ibid (23)

[10] Caprio E. Mark& Yoneyuki Sugita Yoneyuki. Democracy in Occupied Japan: The U.S. Occupation and Japanese Politics and Society. Volume 10 of Routledge Studies in Asia's Transformations. 2007 (26).

[11]  Ibid (32)

[12] Ibid (34)

[13] Ibid (38)

Political Significance of Female Emperors in Ancient Japan

Women role in ancient Japan educe contradiction because of various manipulation, which was incorporated in different time period. Religion was the key factor that contributed to this inconsistence whereby; there was amalgamation between Buddhism with Shintoism (Shillony, 2008). The combination generated an absurdity on female gender individuality thus; a woman place was altered. Women were seen less important as compared to men thereby; only few of them were allowed to occupy political system. In ancient Japan the female gender was highly limited that, they were denied the freedom of choosing a marriage partner whereby; it was for the families to decide (Gelb & Palley, 2009). It was rare for the female to acquire a position in the political system whereby; in the ancient time only two women were give a chance to hold a position in government. Women role was considered as a backbone that cared and protected her family even though; men were highly valued as compared to them. In the ancient era some women were trained as warriors whereby; they were to fight with men in battles (Andaya, 2016).

According to the Advisory council report (Shillony, 2008), higher levels of social as well as economic development has favored the level of women in Japan. The report indicates that since the first exercise practice by the female for their right in politics, the ratio has increased whereby; Japanese women makes up to over 100% representations in politics (Andaya, 2016). On the other hand according to Tonomura, ancient Japan women possessed strong religious power whereby; they were allowed to rule over their own authorities. The traditions on Japanese women continued whereby they were obliged on performing religious tasks as well as production. Tonomura suggests that it was until the 17^th century when Japan adopted the Chinese system which, excluded female from ritual offices. It began with Suiko who served as the first Japanese female ruler and, six more female were positioned to occupying the imperial regions (Tonomura, 2012).  In accordance to the Japanese constitution, it is clear that the imperial Household Law requires that; based on hereditary the throne should be succeeded by the male decedent in the linage. However, women have been and are still excluded from the position of succession thus; supporting gender inequality (Shillony, 2008).

Female in Japan have been favored since they are highly subjected to education though; they are still under-represented in higher education as well as leadership positions after graduation. Most women have decided to enlarge their learning levels whereby; they continue at tertiary levels. Gender tracked the education condition whereby; the male are placed into various companies as well as business centers after graduation, unlike the female who has to continue with studies with no employment position. According to Yoshie (Yoshie, n.d), the history of women’s education in Japan as well as the crossroads of social policies is resistance to marginalization. Despite the global consideration on gender equality, education appears to be unconsidered whereby; the female gender still remain underrepresented on higher education as well as leadership positions in the society. After the Second World War, female education was not considered as essential in Japan thereby; they were enrolled in junior schools where they learnt skills on household chores as well as making a good wife plus a mother (Tonomura, 2012). Junior school is a level of education that every Japanese woman must enroll in even in recent days whereby; if a woman does not continues her higher education it is possible to do so at junior schools. According to Yoshi’s writing (Yoshie, n.d), higher education on women in Japan are recently taking place thus; improving the position of female in the nation (Andaya, 2016).

The education implication on the female gender made most of the Japanese individual become uneasy, on accepting the female consideration in the succession position. The ancient belief that women were not rulers generated a misinterpretation on the Japanese citizens. In accordance to the Household Law, gender equality should be practiced whereby; women are symbols of peace thus; should symbolize Peaceful State of Japan (Kobayashi, 2014). In reference to the Advisory council report (Shillony, 2008), the author indicates that women presentation in politics have been considered as essential. However, there is still the issue on feminist scholarship in Japan whereby; unlike in other nations, Japan seems to be behind in dealing with issues of gender inequality. On the other hand in accordance to Yoshie writings (Yoshie, n.d), the government has generated measures to consider circumstances which comply with the policies of gender equality. It is since 2003 that plans of gender equality have been raised. However, the average on women representation in the advisory council has been designated by the government to rise.  There is much difference between Tonomura issues on women and Yoshe especially considering the time they use (Kokusai Keizai Kōryū Zaidan, 2014).  

According to Tonomura (Kokusai Keizai Kōryū Zaidan, 2014) , she illustrates on the ancient time whereby women were powerful as compared to men. They held public authority over; economic strength as well as religious prestige. It was in the 18^th that the political structure encouraged the male ideology in the State. The ancient Japan had no hypothesis which proved that an emperor was a man thereby; the position was used with no consideration gender (Shillony, 2008).

In reference to the Advisory Council Report  (Shillony, 2008), the issue on women discrimination is being considered by the Japanese government whereby; despite the nation being one of the largest as well as most successful it generates higher level of gender inequality. Over 60% women (Yang, 2015) in Japan feel discriminated among men, especially inconsideration of employment as well as wage gap. It is an ironic situation considering that the ancient Japan was ruled by a female, who was highly expressed as their highest goddess (Gelb & Palley, 2009).

In reference to Piggott articles (Piggott, 2009), Japan was a matriarchal in the ancient time until the 16^th century whereby there was a slight change on religion. Buddhism introduction in Japan changed the existence of religious system as well as the shape and position on genders. It was Buddhism that generated division between genders whereby; an anti-feminine society was developed. The ancient Japan generates an interesting history of women as compared to the male. Piggott articles explains how the external forces were generated thus; influenced the gender-based ideologies which are responsible of what women have become today in Japan (Piggott, 2009). Combination of Buddhism with Shintoism generated an absurdity the female gender individuality thus; a woman place was altered (Kobayashi, 2014). Women were seen less important as compared to men thereby; only few of them were allowed to occupy political system. In ancient Japan the female gender was highly limited that, they were denied the freedom of choosing a marriage partner whereby; it was for the families to decide (Yoshie, n.d).

Women right and values were lowered after the male took control in the 18^th century (Piggott, 2009),  There were tougher conditions on the female gender whereby; according to Yoshie, education was highly encouraged on women though there were specific books for women written by the males (Yang, 2015). The report indicates that since the first exercise practice by the female for their right in politics, the ratio has increased whereby; Japanese women makes up to over 100% representations in politics (Tsutsui, 2009) On the other hand according to Tonomura, ancient Japan women possessed strong religious power whereby; they were allowed to rule over their own authorities. The traditions on Japanese women continued whereby they were obliged on performing religious tasks as well as production (Tonomura, 2012).

In reference to Nihon shoki (Yang, 2015) the image of woman changed during the religion movement whereby; there were regarded for equality. There were images of good wives and wise mothers thus; made them easily identified with the society. Gender tracked the education condition whereby; the male are placed into various companies as well as business centers after graduation, unlike the female who has to continue with studies with no employment position. According to Yoshie (Andaya, 2016), the history of women’s education in Japan as well as the crossroads of social policies is resistance to marginalization. The Japanese historic bias over gender generates an essential impact on children in recent days since it easily develops an understanding on political issues (Haruko, n.d.).  The education allegation on the female gender made most of the Japanese entity become uneasy, on accepting the female consideration in the succession position. The ancient belief that women were not rulers generated a misinterpretation on the Japanese citizens (Haruko, n.d.).

Conclusion

In Medieval Japan men were highly valued as compared to women whereby; the most essential role a female received in the society was entertainers as well wives and mothers. In the ancient era some women were trained as warriors whereby; they were to fight with men in battles. It was authority from the higher rank that women to be trained as worriers, in order to provide necessary safety of their families The only women who had little liberty in Medieval Japan were women of high class though; marriage for them was a major consideration (Haruko, n.d.).

Generally all female in the Medieval Japan had obligations in the society expected of them to fulfill whereby; they had to serve the entire family male individual for lifetime. In accordance to the Advisory Report (Shillony, 2008), women right of gender equality is considered though; it also suggests that when a child is born they should quit work and concentrate on nursing the young one. However, it is fair for mothers to devote themselves to children before returning to work. The change on gender obligations in Japan brought various changes especially on women whereby; they are made to feel neglected as well as discriminated from various social positions. In reference to Yoshie (Yoshie, n.d.) writings, the government has generated measures to consider circumstances which comply with the policies of gender equality. It is since 2003 that plans of gender equality have been raised (Yoshie, n.d.). The female gender has been essential in the success of Meiji re-establishment plus on the Japanese market sector. In the 19^th century women education has been considered whereby; most of them are trained and employed with ease (Andaya, 2016).

References

Andaya, B. W. (2016). The flaming womb: Repositioning women in early modern Southeast Asia. Honolulu: Univ. of Hawaii Press.

Gelb, J., & Palley, M. L. (2009). Women and politics around the world: A comparative history and survey. Santa Barbara, Calif: ABC-CLIO

Haruko, W. (n.d.). Medieval household and gender roles within the imperial family, nobility, merchants, and commoners, in Women and Class in Japanese History.

Kokusai Keizai Kōryū Zaidan. (2014). Japan spotlight: Economy, culture & history. Tokyo, Japan: Japan Economic Foundation.

Kobayashi, A. (2014). Women, work and place. Montreal [u.a.: MacGill-Queen's Univ. Press.

Piggott Joan. (2009). Chieftain Pairs and Corulers:Female Sovereignty in Early Japan Ann Arbor: Worldwide archaeological approaches.

Shillony, B.-A. (2008). The emperors of modern Japan. Leiden: Brill.

Tsutsui, W. M. (2009). A companion to Japanese history. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Tonomura Hitomi (2012). Royal Roles, Wider Changes: Understanding Japan’s Gender Relations from a Historical Perspective: Center for Japanese Studies, Univ. of Michigan.

Yoshie Akike( n.d..).Gendered Interpretations of Female Rule:The Case of Himiko, Ruler ofYamatai: Univ. of Michigan.

Yang, U. E. (2015). Women's and children's Chambers of Parliament: Democratizing representation centuries after Aristotle.

Has the World learnt anything from the Holocaust?

Introduction

The holocaust was a genocide which led to the mass killing of six million Jews from Europe. The genocide was mainly influenced by Nazi’s Party leader Adolf Hitler. Hitler was determine to clear all Jews from Europe, and he therefore came up with laws which allowed him to kill all Jews living in Germany between the periods of 1941-1945. It was estimated that nearly 200,000 Nazi sympathizers took part in killing the Jews. The German government used its resources in order to be able to achieve the goals of its leader Adolf Hitler. This paper is therefore going to look at the lessons learnt from the holocaust, and to also provide recent events of genocides in the world, in a bid to explain if the world has really learnt any lesson from the holocaust.

The world has learnt a lot of things from the holocaust, and it is therefore the role of the international community to take charge of avoiding genocides in the world (Nancy & Wendy, 30). The holocaust was a very sad act, which left most people shocked, since they could not believe what had become of Germany (Steven & Zev, 57). The world seems to learn very quickly, and at the same time to forget very quickly. Whenever an act of genocide takes place in the world, the international community is usually in the first line to condemn such actions, however little or no efforts are put in place in order to contain such an issue.

The holocaust was supposed to prepare the world in order to make people understand the effects of a genocide. Moreover, the international community had been given an insight of what may happen in case of a genocide (Bauman, 81). However, the international community seems not to pay much attention to such issues, even as there are still a number of genocides which are currently taking place in the world. The world has done a lot of things in order to deal with the issues of genocides, but the body’s mandated with that responsibility seem to be weak (Nancy & Wendy, 31).

During the period when the holocaust was being conducted, there were no international bodies which could be able to deal with the issues of genocides (Steven & Zev, 57). This therefore allowed Adolf Hitler to be able to undertake such atrocities without any problems at all. However, the current world is very different with international bodies such as the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR) (Scott & Rebekah 21). The ICC acts as a toothless dog, and it is therefore controlled by the dictates of the wealthier and stronger countries in the world.

Many atrocities have been committed by different leaders in the world, but the ICC has done little in order to deal with such issues. For instance, in the year 1997, there was a mass killing of nearly 5 million people who lost their lives in Congo after the country was invaded by Uganda. The main cause of Uganda’s invasion into the country was in such of copper, since the country is very rich in copper. The international community did nothing in order to deal with the issue (Bauman, 81).

The ICC is given the right to arrest and convince the main perpetrators of such actions, thus making them to suffer because of their actions (Steven & Zev, 59). However, it is unclear on what the ICC did to the main perpetrators of the killings, since the court did not arrest and convict anyone concerning the invasion of Uganda into Congo. This therefore explains the reasons as to why the ICC is usually termed as a toothless dog. This is mainly because the court only talks but it never acts, a thing which encourages mass killings in the world (Nancy & Wendy, 31).

In Libya, civil wars led to the death of hundreds of thousands of people, and the war had been financed by the western powers. This was a move which was undertaken in order to oust the then president of Libya the late Muammar Gadhafi (Scott & Rebekah 21). Gadhafi as a leader, stood by his word and he would not therefore allow any country to control his actions, however strong the country was. He therefore posed a threat to the developed countries, since he was on a mission of uniting African countries thus coming up with a common currency of trade. This was a move which would have really impacted the economies of most African countries positively, on the other hand the move would have negatively impacted the trade between developed and developing countries (Steven & Zev, 59).

Conclusion

Developed countries therefore plotted to murder President Muammar Gadhafi in order to continue exploiting African nations which are developing countries. Developed countries therefore financed rebels who then overthrew the government of Libya. The ICC was then after the Libyan president, and it therefore wanted to prosecute him as the main cause of the war. The ICC is therefore a court which usually operates under the influence of the developed countries. It cannot therefore be able to undertake its tasks effectively due to being bias. This therefore explains why the world seems to have learnt totally nothing from the holocaust.

Work Cited

Rupprecht, Nancy, and Wendy Koenig. The Holocaust and World War Ii: In History and in Memory. Newcastle upon Tyne, UK: Cambridge Scholars Pub, 2012. Internet resource.

Moeschberger, Scott L, and Rebekah A. P. DeZalia. Symbols That Bind, Symbols That Divide: The Semiotics of Peace and Conflict. , 2014. Internet resource.

Jacobs, Steven L, and Zev Garber. Maven in Blue Jeans: A Festschrift in Honor of Zev Garber. West Lafayette, Ind: Purdue University Press, 2009. Print.

Bauman, Zygmunt. Modernity and the Holocaust. Hoboken: Wiley, 2013. Internet resource.

World War II

The Second World War which began in the year 1945 was mainly caused by the Japanese invasion and sinking of US ships at the Pearl Harbor. Japan was in support of Germany, as they waged a war against France. This therefore forced Japan to enter into a war with the US, in order to be able to prevent the country from offering any support to France. The US therefore became very furious, and it therefore decided to develop an atomic bomb which would be used to bomb Japan. The relationship between the two countries worsened, that is the US and Japan, became real enemies. The US took precautionary measures in order to be able to defend its citizens. All persons in the US with a Japanese decent were therefore termed as enemies of the US (Chapter 23). This move saw most people of a Japanese decent losing their jobs and were also being discriminated in the country. This move therefore led to the detention of 112,000 people in Los Alamos simply because they were from Japanese ancestry. Fred Korematsu, was a welder who was born in Oakland, and was also detained after being considered a threat to the US, due to his Japanese ancestry. Prior to his arrest, he lost his job at the boiler company simply because of the fear of working with a Japanese. All persons who had a Japanese ancestry were therefore declared a threat to the security of the US, and it was therefore the mandate of the country to deal with such people in order to secure its own citizens from being attacked while in their own countries. Moreover, President Roosevelt came up with a plan to create atomic bomb which was directed by Physicist J. Robert, Oppenheimer.

The US was not allied to Germany, which was the main perpetrator of the Second World War. Germany wanted to gain its own interests in the war, such as the reclamation of land from other European countries such as France and Britain. This was after the First World War when Alsace and Lorraine were declared to be in France and not in Germany. This consequently made Germany to seek a revenge thus declaring war on France and Britain. Japan was allied to Germany, thus making Germany to become very stronger (Chapter 23). This move therefore saw Japan and Germany working together in order to be able to deal with Germany and Britain. The two countries were being weakened by the collaboration between Germany and Japan, a move which led Britain to ask for naval support from the US. The US, had been neutral for this whole while, even when the other countries decided to take sides with the warring countries. The US therefore saw the need of entering into the war in order to support Britain. President Roosevelt, in the year 1941, asked for the amendment of the war laws, thus allowing the US to join in the war. After declaring its support to Britain, Japanese army sank a US ship at Pearl Harbor. This made the US very furious resulting to the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki with an atomic bomb. A very huge number of people lost their lives, and it is estimated that more than 1000,000 lost their lives due to the attack. The US went on to further bomb German military ships, a move which ended the domination of German in the world. The US therefore entered the in order to restore world order, through understanding the interests of Germany.

Reference

Chapter 23. World War II 1933-1945.