We continue our study of Chinese culture and history, presented by two instructors—one local and one in Nanjing, China. We discuss both ancient and more contemporary Chinese history and culture, and its relevance to the geopolitical climate between China and the United States.

The material will be new and does not depend on having taken previous courses.  

• Week 1- Ancient Culture: Concubines and eunuchs, imperial palaces and beyond
• Week 2- Religion in China: Origins, historical, present day, the surprising history of Jews in China
• Week 3- The Silk Road: Land routes, maritime, impact on China and surrounding countries, Belt and Road Initiative
• Week 4- Rise of Contemporary China: History, Late 1970’s China’s remarkable economic progress, Deng Xiaoping influence, special economic development zones, The Southern Tour, other Chinese leaders influence, modernization
• Week 5- Manufacturing: Why is China the world’s largest supplier of manufactured goods? Infrastructure, supply chain
• Week 6- US - China Trade War: Economic impact, government policy, popular opinion, news, social media, historic reasons for policy and public opinion