Chapters 22 & 23

In reading chapter 22, it is evident that European colonization affected many, taking a closer look into the lives of Asian and African people.  These countries currently struggle for their independence and to keep up with the modern way in terms of development.  Nelson Mandela makes a shift in time, representing the rights and new opportunities for his South African people.  I like how Strayer says, "It promised not only national freedom but also personal dignity, abundance, and opportunity." (pg.  1088).  I find this quote inspirational.  When you have lost almost all hope, somehow a new possibility evolves when you least expect such a change, against all odds.  History can be remarkable in ways such as this example. 

It's so interesting to learn that Ghandi was born into a pius, business caste family.  In addition, he was married at the young age of 13.  He knew that he wanted to study law in England.  Later, he went to South Africa for work as an indentured laborer.  There, he experienced persecution for his Indian race.  Interestingly, his non-violent tactic known as satyagraha (truth force) was a kind a action that he would take into his own hands in order to change political resistance against his people.  He was willing whatever it took; perseverance and the ultimate will power, in my eyes.  Strayer says, "Hundreds of thousands of women responded to Gandhi's call for participation in the independence struggle, marching, demonstrating, boycotting, and spinning (clothes). 

In chapter 23, we are looking at the bigger picture of the world and their outcomes in our present time.  We can look at the changes that have been made, in people and in countries.  In history, we also look back at the suffering that people went through or are going through.  Why does suffering occur in the civilization process.....war, racism, oppression, inequality, and much more.  We as a human race, we keep moving and continue to evolve and grow.  Strayer says, "We have survived and even flourished as a species, and civilization has proven resilience even in the face of catastrophes such as the Black Death and World Wars." (pg.1170).  It's good to hear and read about the changes that the human species is doing to improve our Earth/environment, ending slavery, braking free of empires, etc.  We are living in an era, a turning point in history.  Hopefully, with open minds and better & wiser approaches to solving our world and national problems.