Daily threads, mostly about Asian history
Los Angeles, CA
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Confucianism Explained
A long 🧵on Confucianism. This ancient philosophy is constantly mentioned these days as a cornerstone of Asian societal values & ethics. But what is it really about? Here's a list of Confucian principles▶️
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The mom was already alarmed by a motorist following her but still let her daughter venture out on her own?
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We need to go back to this kind of vocational training. Apprenticeships need to come back in all professions
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Apparently there was global warming back then that wasn't caused by emissions or industrialization
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Apparently, a 9 year old kid named Michael Henley disappeared in New Mexico in April of 88 while hunting with his dad, and his family thought the kid in the pic was him. Too much of a coincidence. It was probably them.
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The Ming Dynasty's Collapse
The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) was a beacon of culture and power in its prime, but an array of factors led to its downfall, and the establishment of the Manchu-led Qing Dynasty. Here's summary▶️
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I think every reasonable person finds this type of judgment peculiar. But, she was an adult, and her mom probably couldnt stop her
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The Deadliest Anti-Chinese Massacre in History
The Torreón massacre was a devastating event in the Mexican city of Torreón in May 1911 during the Mexican Revolution. It is the deadliest incident of anti-Chinese violence in history, yet it is not well known.
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Back when high schools in Cali were chill and all the kids were optimistic about the future
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A🧵 History Of Steel Production In Ancient China
Steel first emerged in China during the Zhou Dynasty, around 1046 BCE.
This basic steel was likely created by increasing the carbon content of wrought iron, a process that wouldn't be adopted in Europe for nearly 2 millennia.
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Paper
Paper, a revolutionary medium for writing and communication, was first invented in ancient China. The development of papermaking techniques transformed the world, enabling the spread of knowledge and shaping the course of human civilization.
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Here's a snapshot that shows how much chaos China was dealing with from the middle of the 19th century, starting with the First Opium War, to the middle of the 20th, concluding with the end of the Chinese Civil War.
It is a miracle that China is a united, sovereign nation today.
ALT The major conflicts in China during the 19th and 20th centuries
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Suharto's Anti-Chinese Policies
Suharto's tenure as the President of Indonesia from 1967–1998 is marked by various anti-Chinese policies that used Chinese Indonesians as scapegoats for the country's social and economic issues
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The Boxer Rebellion
The Boxer Rebellion (1899-1901), was an event that brought the end of Qing dynasty and sparked the change for a rebellion in 1911. This anti foreign/colonial/Christian uprising was led by the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists, or "Boxers".
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The 3 Greatest Emperors Of The Tang Dynasty🧵
The Tang Dynasty was a golden age in Chinese history, and was led by several remarkable leaders.
Here's a list of my top three most impactful emperors and what they accomplished▶️
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🧵Mozi and Mohism
Mozi was a Chinese philosopher who lived during the Warring States period (~470 BCE to 391 BCE).
He founded the school of Mohism, a compelling alternative to the dominant Confucian ideology of the period. Here's what it entailed▶️
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The Incredible Life Of Qian Xuesen
Qian Xuesen (1911–2009) is known as the "Father of Chinese Rocketry," instrumental in establishing China's missile and space program. His journey from MIT and Caltech to China during the Cold War is both inspiring and complex.
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Legalism Explained
A🧵on Legalism. This ancient Chinese philosophy is part of the foundation of China's political thought & legal codes. But what is it really about?
Here are the key tenets and beliefs of Legalism▶️
ALT AI depiction of Shang Yang, a key Legalist philosopher
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CZ had a target on his back as soon as FTX went down. Gensler was going to avenge his boy. Im sure CZ knew this day was coming.
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A 🧵On The History Of Paper Currency In China
China's history with paper currency traces back to the 7th century during the Tang Dynasty.
China was the first society to engineer and manufacture paper on a mass scale, and they quickly found applications for financial use. ▶️
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Nara Era Japan & The Tang Dynasty Of China
The Nara Period (710–794 AD) was an important era in Japan's history because of significant contact with China. What influence did it have on Japan?
Here's a summary of key aspects that were integrated into Japanese culture🧵
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The Grand Canal of China, a marvelous feat of engineering, is the longest and oldest artificial waterway in the world. Its construction began during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC), led by King Fuchai of Wu.
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The Collapse of the Han Dynasty🧵
The Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE) which ruled China for over 400 years was extremely prosperous in its early years, but declined and due to a fatal combination of poor leadership and mismanagement.
Here's the events that led to its demise▶️
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Qin Shi Huang, China's First Emperor
He was the first emperor to rule over a united China, and is remembered for being buried in a tomb full of thousands of clay soldiers.
However, his accomplishments during his life were much more profound and impactful.
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The Yellow River
The Yellow River, known as Huang He (黄河) in Chinese, is one of the most important rivers in China and holds a significant place in Chinese civilization's history and development.
Here's why it is so important▶️
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The Xinhai Revolution
On October 10, 1911, the Xinhai Revolution, initiated by the Wuchang Uprising, marked the decline of the Qing Dynasty and the birth of the Republic of China. Here's a summary▶️
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The Yellow Emperor🧵
Also known as Huangdi, the Yellow Emperor is a cultural hero, and somewhat of a mythological figure who is an important part of ancient Chinese cultural identity.
Here's more about who he was and what he did▶️
ALT Depiction of the mythical Yellow Emperor Huangdi
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Not internships...apprenticeships as full time employees to learn a specific profession, and completely bypass college. They were pretty common on Wall St until the 80s. HS grads could go work on the trading floor, and then work their way up
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Britain's 1919 Aliens Restriction Act
The 1919 Aliens Restriction Act extended WW1 measures into peacetime, and was designed to exclude the 100K+ Chinese in the Chinese Labour Corps who had done the leg work to help them win the war.
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The Tang Dynasty & The Kingdoms of Korea
The relationship between the Tang Dynasty of China and the Korean kingdoms during the Tang period (618-907 CE) was complex and multifaceted, encompassing many aspects.
Here's an overview▶️
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The 60s were wild. It was a time when people could just let loose. My parents and relatives constantly reminisce about that decade, so it must have been fun
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5 Big Achievements of The Song Dynasty
The Song Dynasty era (960–1279 AD) in China was a significant period which is notable for some impressive achievements that changed China's future.
Here are the top 5▶️
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Confucianism centers around Ren (仁) - Benevolence.
It values compassion and kindness, urging people to treat each other with empathy, lend a helping hand, and embody humanity in their actions.
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Xiao (孝) - Filial Piety is fundamental. It emphasizes deep respect for parents and ancestors, honoring their sacrifices, and caring for them in their old age. This is why many Asian cultures have a tradition of going to their ancestors' graves every year.
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Home Office 213/926
In the aftermath of WWII, a secret British government operation, documented in Home Office file 213/926, forcibly "repatriated" hundreds of Chinese sailors from Liverpool.
Here's a🧵that explains this sad, racist event ▶️
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The Woman Who Ruled China
Empress Wu Zetian (624-705 AD) stands out in Chinese history as the only woman to rule as an emperor. Her reign broke gender norms of her era, and she left an indelible mark on China's history.
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What Was The Tongmenghui (同盟会)?
Founded by Sun Yat-sen, Song Jiaoren, and others in Tokyo, Japan, on August 20, 1905. This organization played a pivotal role in overthrowing the Qing Dynasty. Here's a 🧵 the details ▶️
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Li (礼) - Rituals or Propriety is a cornerstone. It envisions a ideal society where people observe proper conduct, manners, and rituals in their daily interactions, maintaining order, harmony, and mutual respect.
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Car accident...head on collision that killed 4 people, sent 1 to jail. 3 of the deceased went to my school, and the other one went to another HS, but had a cousin at my school. It was especially sad because one of the surviving guys lost all his friends in an instant. 3 dead, 1 in jail.
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Traditional Chinese Medicine🧵
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) centers around "Qi"—a vital concept. It's a life force that flows through meridians in the body.
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Zhi (智) - Wisdom encourages the pursuit of knowledge. People should continuously seek to expand their understanding, make wise decisions, and apply intellectual growth to enhance judgment. It is probably why Vo Nguyen Giap was such a respected leader - he was a former teacher
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Yi (义) - Righteousness is about doing what is morally right. It pictures a world where individuals prioritize justice and fairness, contributing to a more ethical and harmonious society.
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The Batavia Massacre Of 1740
In what is now Jakarta, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) ruled a colony that was a world leader in sugar production. A large influx of Chinese had recently arrived, and as their numbers grew, so did the tensions with the Dutch. 🧵
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The Tacoma Method
On 11/3/1885, in Tacoma, Washington witnesses saw the forced expulsion of its Chinese residents by a mob of hundreds of men, propelled by economic tensions and racial bias.
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The Compass🧵
One of the most profound ancient Chinese inventions to impact the world was the compass.
How did this profound tool function?▶️
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Xin (信) - Integrity stresses sincerity and trustworthiness. Envision a society where honesty is valued, and individuals uphold their commitments, fostering a culture of sincerity and reliability.
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A🧵Korean Silla Dynasty
The Silla Dynasty, one of Korea's Three Kingdoms, flourished from 57BC to 935AD.
It unified the Korean Peninsula and established the foundation for modern Korean culture ▶️
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The things that were tolerated up until about 2015 are pretty astounding now that we look back. Johnny Carson show was nuts
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Xuanzang, The Monk Who Journeyed To The West
Determined to bring more Buddhist knowledge from India, he set out on his journey against all odds. ▶️
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Ming China's Ban Of Christianity
The Chongzhen Emperor (Zhu Youjian) governed China during a turbulent period of the Ming Dynasty from 1627 to 1644, and created some strict laws to maintain order and control.
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Famous Admiral Zheng He, who was captured as an adolescent during the Ming conquests of the Mongol-ruled Yunnan province, was part of a group of 10k young men who were castrated and turned into eunuchs. I always wonder how they organized a mass castration event.
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Song Dynasty Rice Cultivation🧵
Most people are unaware that the Chinese consumption of rice wasn't always common, as it was a difficult crop to mass produce year-round.
Here's how it was growth hacked during the Song era🔽
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Tang Dynasty Poet Du Fu🧵
Du Fu (712-770 AD) was a prominent Chinese poet of the Tang Dynasty. He is often considered one of the greatest poets in Chinese literary history. Du Fu's work is revered for its moral depth, empathetic insights, and sharp commentary on social and political matters.
Here's some more facts about his life & works▶️
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Confucianism recognizes social hierarchy & duties. Imagine a society where everyone understands and fulfills their roles, be it teacher-student, parent-child, or elder-younger, contributing to social stability. The elder-younger dynamic is probably most common in Korean culture
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Xi, like Putin, has spent the last decade trying to weed out the corrupt officials that were in the pocket of the CIA.
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Continuity of Tradition is vital. Envision a culture that respects and preserves its traditions – from rituals and language to moral values. This continuity strengthens cultural identity and societal bonds.
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Sima Qian🧵
Often regarded as the father of Chinese historiography, he is an iconic figure in Chinese history. His most famous work, "Shiji" (史記), or "Records of the Grand Historian," is a foundational piece in Chinese historical writing.
Here's more about who he was▶️
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Loyalty and Reciprocity are crucial. Think of a world where loyalty to family & friends is highly regarded, and individuals engage in fair and reciprocal relationships to promote mutual trust.
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Tian (天) - Heaven represents the natural order. Picture a moral force guiding the universe, setting the foundation for ethical behavior, and fostering cosmic harmony in the world. I think this is one of the more abstract ones.
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An Lushan Rebellion🧵
The An Lushan Rebellion (755-763 AD) stands as one of the most catastrophic and transformative events in Chinese history, and started the downfall of the prolific Tang Dynasty.
Here's what happened▶️
ALT AI depiction of heavy-set Tang General An Lushan
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The Liao Dynasty
The Liao Dynasty, established by the Khitan people, was a formidable empire in East Asia from 907 to 1125 AD following the vacuum left by the collapse of the Tang Dynasty.
It flourished in parallel with the much more well-known Song Dynasty.
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What is Qi And Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) centers around "Qi"—a vital concept.
It's a life force that flows through meridians in the body.
Here's a🧵on what Qi is and its significance in TCM▶️
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The Boxer Protocol
The Boxer Protocol, signed in 1901, was a pivotal treaty in China's history that concluded the Boxer Rebellion, a violent uprising against foreign influence and Christian presence in China. Here's a summary ▶️
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The White Lotus Rebellion
The White Lotus Rebellion was a major uprising from 1794 to 1804 that kicked off the "century of humiliation"
This period marked the beginning of internal strife and external pressures that would eventually lead to the fall of the Qing Dynasty▶️
ALT Qianlong Emperor who ruled during the White Lotus Rebellion.
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The Longest Civil War In History🧵
The Taiping Rebellion, which lasted from 1850 to 1864, stands out as one of the most catastrophic conflicts in human history.
Here's how it happened▶️
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Three Kingdoms Period🧵
The The 3 Kingdoms period (~220-280AD) was a tumultuous period that resulted from the fall of the Han Dynasty. Though brief, it ended up having a profound impact of Chinese culture, literature, and philosophy.
Here's how it played out▶️
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Printing
The development of printing in ancient China revolutionized the world, enabling the mass production and dissemination of written knowledge. From woodblock printing to moveable type, the fascinating invention of printing in ancient China changed the world.
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The Grand Canal
The Grand Canal in China starts in Beijing and ends in Hangzhou, and connects the two longest rivers in China; the Yellow & Yangtze.
For 2000 years it has played a critical role in China's economic, political, and cultural life.
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19th Century Western Incursions Into Korea🧵
After the success of the British in the Opium Wars, the race for control of Asia was on. Korea became a target of trade demands by the US and France.
Here are a few notable incidents aren't mentioned enough▶️
ALT Emperor Gojong rallying his generals
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Portuguese Colonies In Asia🧵
Portuguese explorers blazed the trail of colonization in Asia, that would later be taken over and exploited by the British and Dutch.
Here's how their colonies impacted Asia▶️
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Who are the Miao People?
The Miao people, also known as the Hmong in some regions, are an ethnic group native to China and Southeast Asia. They primarily reside in the southern provinces of China, with significant populations in Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.
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The Guangzhou Massacre🧵
A horrific event that targeted foreign traders occurred in 878 AD during the Tang dynasty in the southern port city of Guangzhou.
Here's how it happened▶️
ALT Huang Chao probably looked nothing like this
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The Qing Dynasty's Economic Crisis
The downfall of the last dynasty didn't happen overnight.
In addition to the conflicts it faced with the European powers during the 19th century, the Qing govt. faced massive economic challenges due to population growth and natural disasters.
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A🧵The Lanfang Republic (1777-1884)
It is fascinating chapter in the history of the Chinese diaspora.
Founded in Borneo, Indonesia in 1777, this Hakka Chinese Republic even attempted to become part of the Qing Dynasty▶️
ALT Lanfang Republic Flag
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The Jinshi, Imperial Examination🧵
During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), the Jinshi exam system played a major role in shaping the imperial bureaucracy, emphasizing meritocracy over social status
Here's what the structure of this high pressure test was like▶️
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Mencius
Mengzi, or Mencius as he is known in the West, was one of the great teachers of ancient China, second only to that of Confucius in the Confucian tradition.
He is best known for developing an optimistic theory of human nature, which holds that human beings are capable of benevolence▶️
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Mount Tai🧵
Mount Tai (Tai Shan) is a legendary spiritual destination in Chinese culture and history, renowned as one of the "Five Great Mountains of China."
Here's why it holds historical, cultural, and spiritual significance for many Chinese people▶️
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The Ban Of Christianity During The Ming Dynasty🧵
The Chongzhen Emperor (1627-1644) led the Ming Dynasty during its final years, and implemented desperate measures to maintain order and control in a period of growing European influence.
Here's why he did it▶️
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The Kuomintang (KMT)
We hear a lot about them these days with all the "China Bad" rhetoric, and Taiwan independence talk.
Here's a summary of the history of the KMT
ALT Sun Yat Sen
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The History Of The Grand Canal🧵
The Grand Canal in China starts in Beijing and ends in Hangzhou, and connects the two longest rivers in China; the Yellow and the Yangtze.
Here's a summary of its amazing history▶️
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Yes, so many issues that caused the downfall of the Ming Dynasty are happening right now in the West
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This event highlighted the extreme forms of xenophobia and violence that Chinese immigrants faced in this era as they tried to establish themselves in the west, occurring within the context of broader societal tension and upheaval.
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