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Small Business Management

Strayer University

Professor Sally A. McMillin

Abstract

In this paper I will answer the following questions about the case study on “Ted Leonsis and Filmanthropy”.

1.       Describe Leonsis’ concept of “idea generation” and explain the approach you would take as an entrepreneur in this kind of business.

2.      Describe your “big idea” and the methods you would use for finding statistics to validate the market size and growth opportunity for your potential business.

3.      How would you leverage your resources and network of contacts to begin to accomplish your entrepreneurial goal? 

4.      What strategies would you use to set up your network to start your own business?

Small Business Management

1.      Describe Leonsis’ concept of “idea generation” and explain the approach you would take as an entrepreneur in this kind of business. Leonsis’ concept of idea generation stated there needs to be a balance between the vision and execution of your idea and weather the idea is worth considering. Regardless of how excited and motivated you become on your idea you must also consider the factors that the consumer may not be interested in your idea and therefore will not purchase it. As an entrepreneur you cannot be only a visionary, you must be the person who connects your strategy with tactics to implement your idea, which will only come around every few years.

As an entrepreneur I would approach my idea with the process of creative thinking for my idea and how I make it better and more appealing to the consumer. It is very important that all ideas no matter how ludicrous or extreme they may sound should be processed and supported as an ongoing project, with a specific purpose and goal which I want to accomplish. This process would involve my company as a whole which would include every aspect from me as the owner, to my managers and employees as well as my clientele or customers. Using the idea generation process the gathering process one should not criticize the ideas of others, but should be freewheeling and supportive to help generate as many new ideas as possible.

2.      Describe your “big idea” and the methods you would use for finding statistics to validate the market size and growth opportunity for your potential business. The idea that I propose is to start a business which purchases the property from foreclosed storage units, residents and businesses. My company would then resale these items on local websites such as eBay and Craigslist as well as at local auction centers. The methods I would use to find statistics to validate the market size and growth opportunity for my potential business would be, first by conducting research at the court house to analyze how many civil claims have been filed by storage unit companies to seize property for non-payment of rental units. I would also research the number of residential foreclosures in a specified location as well as conduct a search of local businesses who have filed a close of business affidavit with the court house as well as the chamber of commerce.

I would conduct an internet search to see how many similar and competing companies they are in my market as well as to see where these businesses are located. I would use this information to help me decide where to locate and establish my potential business.

The next step in analyzing my potential business would be to research and gather statistics on the type of property my company would be reselling with local competitors to help my company establish a competitive price for the merchandise I would be offering to consumers. The last step in my research would be to complete a possible list of contacts to help my business establish a group of potential vendors which will supply the merchandise to my business.

3.      How would you leverage your resources and network of contacts to begin to accomplish your entrepreneurial goal? I would first complete an outline which would establish a strategy for my business which would explain my business goals and how my company would accomplish these goals and objectives. I would leverage my potential resources by offering them a long term contract where my company will pay them a standard fee for each unit or property which my company purchased. I would use the business tactic of long term investment to create a steady income with increased earning potential based on large quantity purchasing.

To successful network a list of contacts I would have to establish a business-personal working relationship with the people who would help support my business and help the day to day operations as well as increase my business’ growth and potential. I would leverage my network of contacts by making them feel as they are a part of my business and contribute towards the success of it. I would provide my network of contact with a finder’s fee for each new contact they help my business create as well as pay them a portion of the profits which they help my business create and earn.

4.      What strategies would you use to set up your network to start your own business? Once I have determined the goals and objectives for my business I will then create a list of strategies that my company will use which will be listed in my business plan. I will then explain how my company will achieve these goals and objective using the selected strategies.

The first strategy would be for my company to gain a competitive advantage over my competitors by offering the same quality product as my competitors at a low price.

I would then prepare my business for geographical expansion to help my business grow and increase my businesses’ profit earning potential.

I would also increase the length and price of the contractions with my resources helping them to expand their business which intern will help my business grow.

Market segmentation would be the next business strategy, by increasing the market that my company sells to will help my business grow and intern will increase the earning potential of my business.

The last business strategy would be to create a customer intimate to address my potential customer’s needs and wants and expand my market as well as the products which my company offers. This tactic will help eliminate my competition and corner the market so the consumer will only select my company.

The last and most important strategy for my company to create and accomplish is a strong business reputation as a reliable, safe and convenient company which offer the best products for the consumer’s money.

References

Scarborough, N., Wilson, D., Zimmerer, T. (2009) Effective Small Business Management, Custom Publishing, Inc. (2009).

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Marketing Information and research.Marketing information and research is an important aspect of a business plan, as it identifies what the customers as well as the stakeholders want. Marketing information and research is also a detailed description of what the target customers want, need as well as how they are responding to the products and services being offered. Below is a detailed discussion on the marketing Information and research of Buffalo Wild Wings, a fast food restraunt.

Research Question

The most important question the organization is trying to answer is what the needs and wishes of the target customers are.

The kind of information needed to make useful marketing decisions include; what do the target customers think of Buffalo Wild Wings? The question tries to answer what the organization can do to encourage the customers to consume their products the more and to encourage others to do the same. A question to the already existing customers is also important in a bid to understand their product or service knowledge and how often they consume the product/service and what they think about the products/service. It is also necessary to ask those who prefer other brands that their reasons are, answer their questions in a satisfactory manner, and end up winning them to your side. Asking about the products that sell the most is paramount, as well as understanding the products that grow in decline and those that are receiving the best rates and referrals.

Research recommendation.The necessary information about the business can be acquired by conducting a research where the study population will be the target customers. Another source of information would be from personal experience and knowledge, when employees really understand the markets, then they are in a position give the relevant information to steer the business forward. Regular data from the existing customers can be another source of information and the person tasked with collecting information should be persuasive and very imaginative.

Identifying the Customer and Problem

Identifying the customer and the problem is arguably the most powerful marketing strategy and tool, it enables the decision makers to ensure that marketing is effective because the customers are identified and considered and decisions on how their satisfaction will be obtained is made. the best strategy to be utilized is segmentation. a segment is defined as a group of people with similar needs and are also a part of the general market. The division of the market into segments enables the business to reach its important customers effectively and to efficiently provide the products and services.

Factors Influencing Customer Decisions

Customer decisions to purchase a product or service are influenced by a number of factors. One of the factors is geographical; in this case, the location of the customer influences their buying powers. In the urban areas for example, customers tend to consume a lot of fast food because of their busy schedules and the lifestyle in the city. Personal and demographic factors also play a greater role in influencing the purchasing power of customers. Male teen often purchase fast food because they do not give much thought to their bodies like their female counterparts. The family unit also may be a contributing factor; young families may often have take-outs because fast food thrill children and their parents may give in as they try to make them happy.

Reaching the Customer

The enterprise will focus on reaching the customer by using the example of successful business enterprises also it will ensure they do not at all cost tamper on the quality of the products and the services they are offering. Consistence is another important strategy in getting to the customer and the availability of a variety where the customer can choose.

Competitive Advantages

Buffalo Wild wings has a competitive advantage over its main competitors it may focus on having a unique product and the best dipping sauces something their competitors might not be doing. it is important to also adopt an enthusiastic culture in the business as well having friendly staff that reflects the company’s culture.

Market Niche and Positioning Strategy

Positioning strategy also enables the decision makers to understand where the customers think about the business and that information will help the organization to improve on the delivery of services and the communication of the improvements to the customers. Market Niche is a strategy that the organization must hack. it is important for the organization to ensure it places its products and offers the service in the right place.

Positioning Statement

The position statement leads in making and planning the marketing activity. The positioning statement will be to increase customer awareness in the locality. every strategy and effort will be geared towards getting the customers to know who Buffalo wild wings are.

Brand Description

The aim is to establish a distinct brand that will certainly stand out from the competitors. The logo is to be eye catching and distinct.

Brand Promise

The fries will be made by 100%fresh potatoes and with the best prices in town.

Brand Voice and Personality

Brand is excellently Delicious.

Brand never compromises on quality.

Brand Positioning and Strategy

There shall be a grand opening in a central place and colorful banners bearing the distinct logo will be displayed. A particular place in the mall will be the tester market and the most delicious wings prepared and letting out the aroma of freshly fried fries inviting people to taste the products.

When marketing information and analysis is appropriately done and the most appropriate information obtained it sets the business way above its competitors and it is safe to say Knowledge is Power against competition.

MARKETING MAJOR

TO:PROFESSOR

FROM:STUDENT

DATE:(INSERT DATE)

-1333501854210SUBJECT: (INSERT SUBJECT)

Marketing is an area which I am interested in and in this area of business the importance of communication is very important as it helps those within this field to communicate properly and make sure that whatever they are advancing and bringing to the market is fully accepted. Therefore it is a core part of business marketing and it comprises of the role of character as well as the role of competency or being competent in making sure that the success of marking it attained and made possible. These two are very essential in ensuring credibility is attained in written form within businesses since a person’s character as well as how they put down the message determines how this message is perceived and if it goes into making the organization better by marketing it (Raciti, 2010). Therefore character being and very important aspect should be visible through the writing and if the character is perfect then it means that credibility is attained. Character to some extent can be displayed through the level of competency and therefore these are two areas I want to work on very much.

The reason why I want to work on my competency and character is that these two play a very important role in my major which is marketing. Therefore working on them makes it possible for me to be successful in this field and my general career as a marketer. I would work on these two mainly through first of all making my character better in person and therefore this is expected to be passed down to the written communication as I will also practice more about how to be competent in my writing and keep on sharing with professionals in this area for more information and skills.

Therefore the ability to be competent and professional in business written communications is very important and therefore using this I will be able to overcome the issues at my job and make my marketing job better.

Reference

Raciti, M. M., & Dagger, T. S. (2010). Embedding relationship cues in written communication. Journal of Services Marketing.

Liberal Arts Capstone Assignment: Speech presentation

Speech presentation is one of the hardest activities have had to do in my personal life and educational career. I have had to make many speeches requiring different levels of preparation. During speech presentation, it is advisable to understand your audience and relate to them effectively in order to present your points efficiently. One of the speech presentations that stand out in my encounter is the one I presented for a group work in high school. I believe I presented myself appropriately to the audience, because I used sufficient and accurate body language as well as eye contact. I was nervous before being given the limelight to start the presentation. I had prepared for the presentation a day before the actual presentation in my room and I intended to deliver on the objectives. I developed supportive props and charts to aid my presentation. During the presentation, I was clear, vocal, and precise to adhere to the assigned duration.

At the end of my presentation, all I could hear were jubilations and appreciation from the audience. I made a great impression on my audience through organized, clear, precise, and vocal presentation. This is because of the feedback I obtained from my professor as well as other students and my group members. This was the best presentation I had done with the ability to overcome my great fear of presenting in front of a crowd of more than 100 people. I used attractive concepts and jokes to appeal to my audience hence capture their attention. My trick had worked on the audience, thus an opportunity to present the main points effectively and efficiently utilizing the props and charts for illustration.

A Do-not Resuscitate (DNR) Case Study

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A Do-not Resuscitate (DNR) Case Study

Case Study Summary

In their day-to-day life, healthcare professionals are faced with difficult decisions meant to save their patients’ lives. The case is not different for nurse Anne, a registered nurse at a private hospital in California. Anne was going about her usual business at work when a patient was hurled in by an ambulance. The patient was Mrs. Harper, a 67-year-old woman ailing from stage four breast cancer. The elderly woman is accompanied by her only daughter, Sonia, who is in her early thirties. Sonia is in tears and desperately pleads with the doctors and nurses there to help save her mother’s life. A few moments ago, Anne had just walked in from work. She was living with her mother, who had recently moved from DC to stay with her daughter and her live-in nurse. A few weeks ago, she had had a conversation about a Do Not Resuscitate Order, also known as DNR. Sonia did not want to agree with her mother’s wishes. She could not believe that her mother was asking for her help in ending her life. Mrs. Harper had stage four cancer and was in great pain. For a terminal illness, the doctors had estimated that she had at most five months to live. She was on pain medication, and she had decided to end her chemotherapy treatment sessions. Mrs. Harper told her daughter that she wanted to die under her own terms and that she wanted her daughter to be the one to administer the drug that would put her to rest forever. This was a tough call for Sonia, who was yet to come to terms with the reality of the situation. Sonia had not given up on her mother’s life; she had, in fact, enrolled her for a trial treatment with a clinic in California, but her mother declined. Mrs. Harper told her daughter that the only reason she agreed to move in with her was that a DNR order was illegal in the state where she used to live.

So on this particular day, Sonia was at work when she received a disturbing phone call from her mother’s caregiver. The caregiver informed her that her mother had refused to take her medication. Sonia told her mother that she would leave work and come home if she continued refusing the medication. The caregiver told Sonia that in most cases, if patients refuse to take medication, it is usually a sign that they are ready to go. Mrs. Harper later promised her daughter that there was no need for her to leave work and that she would take her medication. Later that evening, when Sonia arrived home, she found her mother alone. Mrs. Harper had refused to take the medication and sent her caregiver home. Sonia was in distress. She could not believe that the time for her mother to go had come and that she would be the one to administer the drug that would kill her. She held her mother in her arms one last time, and they sobbed and talked for the last time. Eventually, she gathered the courage, mixed the prescribed drug in orange juice, and held it for her mother to drink. Mrs. Harper was unconscious in a matter of seconds. Sonia could not believe this was happening. She was not ready for her mother to die. She called for an ambulance that took her mother to the emergency room. On arriving, Mrs. Harper was received by Anne and a team of other doctors. When asked what her mother had taken, Sonia kept screaming that they should just save her life. Upon looking at her condition, the nurses realized that Mrs. Harper was in stage four cancer, and her doctor had signed her Do-Not-Resuscitate Order. Anne was confused about how to handle the situation, but she had to oblige to the patient’s will, which is a conflicting position for any person.

Effectiveness of Communication Approaches in the Case Study

The communication strategies employed in this scenario were effective but, at the same time, placed Anne and her team in a conflicting position. A DNR is a legally binding order that a doctor signs at a patient’s request (Kim & Keneally, 2021). It directs medical professionals not to resuscitate a patient if they stop breathing or go into cardiac arrest. In this case, although Sonia was well aware of the fact that her mother had a DNR, she was still in denial that she was about to lose her mother for good. At her mother’s request, she is the one who administered the drug that put her in that state. Upon arriving at the hospital, at first, she did not disclose that her mother had a DNR to the doctors. After looking through her records, they realized she was a stage four cancer patient. Mrs. Harper had lost her hair and seemed that she had gone through a lot of pain. At this point, they asked Sonia if her mother had a DNR, to which she admitted. At this point, the nurse told Sonia that they could not administer CPR treatment as it would be going against the patient’s order.

Effectiveness of the Approaches Used By the Healthcare Professional

Upon realizing that Mrs. Harper was a stage four cancer patient who had decided to end her life, Anne knew immediately that she could not perform CPR treatment or any other action that could help revive her patient. Anne handled the situation as any professional would. Once Mrs. Harper was brought in, she quickly assessed the patient’s position, and the first question she asked was if her mother had a DNR order. She quickly realized something was amiss since Sonia did not want to disclose the information about her mother’s DNR at first. Anne realized that when asked a question, her only response was that they should concentrate on saving her mother’s life since they were doctors. After admitting that her mother had a DNR, Anne took a moment and explained that she could not administer CPR as it would go against the order. As a health professional, Anne handled the situation the best way she could. She did not violate the healthcare principles and the wish of her patient.

Application of Ethical Principles to Possible Solution for the Problem

In this case, there is a possibility that the DNR order could have been deemed invalid, enabling Anne and her team to resuscitate Mrs. Harper. There are circumstances where doctors can resuscitate a patient with a DNR, such as if what caused the breathing was something that was not natural, like sudden airway blockage or trauma (Osinski, Vreugdenhil, de Koning, & van der Hoeven, 2017). Sonia did not tell the nurses that she was the one that induced the condition by giving her mother a prescribed drug. She knew that had she told the nurses the information, they could have performed CPR on her mother. Her mother was already going through so much pain, and it was her wish to rest, and Sonia had no option but to respect her wishes.

References

Kim, C., & Keneally, R. (2021). The Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order in the perioperative setting: practical considerations. Current Opinion in Anesthesiology, 34(2), 141-144.

Osinski, A., Vreugdenhil, G., de Koning, J., & van der Hoeven, J. G. (2017). Do-not-resuscitate orders in cancer patients: a review of literature. Supportive Care in Cancer, 25(2), 677-685.

A Faction As Described By James Madison

Federalist 10

A faction as described by James Madison, is the total number of the citizens whether minority or majority, and are united by various interests that are adverse to citizen rights or a permanent interest of a given community. Factions is historically known to be breaking or destroying the republic, and one of the serious sources of faction is the diversity opinion which comes as a result of politics in the political life resulting to dispute of a fundamental issues that includes the religion and the regime supposed to be preferred. The other source of faction is passion. Even though, there seemed to be problems with republic government due to fragmentation, large faction can be avoided however there are still some tiny ones which could get together to form coalition.

If factional becomes intensive, the government tends to suffer a lot from disunity and when it becomes severe, ruptures in some organizations that impede effectiveness might be noticed. To avoid such disunity and perception Publius have tried to outline various options for overcoming faction. Firstly, to avoid harm to the republics, faction should be conducted secretly and with a minimal scrutiny for the republics. However, this act sometimes tends to lead to unethical behavior making the warfare within the factions to lead to frauds and fraudulent conduct.

According to Madison, faction can be overcome by removing its causes or controlling its effects to the republics. This can be done by destroying the liberty, however in most case, liberty is usually very essential to the political life. Another option is by creating a homogeneous society that has interests which is impracticable. In Madisons’ summary, he concludes that faction can only be limited when the government controls its effects to the republics.

Publius ultimate to the solution of faction in United States involves passing the bill of Rights which will act as the solution to the problem of faction while emphasizing on the powers separations. Publius also extends the sphere along with the pluralism of Republic to prevent the majority factions while forcing the process of decision making to slow down

Federalist 51

The separation of powers or checks and balances are regulations which tend to allow one branch in limiting another branch, for example the Congress power that alters the jurisdiction of federal courts as drafted by the United States Constitution. It involves three branches of government which includes the legislative, executive and the judiciary, each has a constitution that defines power and its function. However, one government does not need to interfere with the way other branches exercise their assigned power. Separations of powers sometimes divide the ability of making decisions to many people. One cannot abuse power because no person has much power than the other. For instance there are three branches of government and in a company; the separation of power might come from the owner who is also the General Manager. Another good example of power separation is taking a situation where two people are sent to the bank to access a safe within the bank. In this case one person will have the powers for opening the safe while the other person will have the powers of taking what is necessary. Publius believes that separation of powers is essential in the protection of liberty. This is because the general government tends to protect the rights of people but fails to take the potential for the role to be polluted by the party disciplines.

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Introduction

The shaping of societies in the past is responsible for the arrangement of the current society that we live in today. There are many factors that led to the growth and developments of all economic societies. Social origins explain the systems that countries practiced so that the countries could advance as a result. Some of the systems that played a significant role in the shaping of the communities were the agrarian and industrial revolution. These systems took place all over the world from the time of the ancient days to the advancement of technology (Moore, Friedman and Scott, p. 1-124).

The purpose of this paper is to apply the ideas or Barrington Moore’s book social origins of dictatorship and democracy to the book of master and lord’s mid-19th century Planters and Prussian Junkers. The paper will provide a summary of both books and their role in the political, social and economic aspects of the society. Barrington Moore will later be applied to the book of masters and lords. The paper will thus provide a concluding paragraph that will summarize the contents of the whole book.

Social origins of dictatorship

Barrington Moore’s book is one of the most recognized comparative books in the fields of political, social and economic arrangement. The book talks about the country’s political and democratic influences. One of the themes of the book states that the political systems are derived from the existence of the agrarian and industrial revolution. Based on the 8 influential countries in terms of their political roles at this time, the book divides the transformation into three phases which define the major periods.

The book looks at the social system in these respective countries and the role of different social groups. The society is divided into the wealthy and influential and the peasant who are not as influential. Different classes play different roles in the society contributing to the organization of the economy. The social classes were brought about by the transformation from a less complex system to the agrarian system. The agrarian system was defined by the adaptation of agriculture as the main contributor to the economy. This involved the practice of farming so as to produce enough produce for the country and export. This in turn improved the countries social, political and economic position. This led to the division of roles in society in that the peasants were responsible for the provision of labor. This left the upper class to run the country by providing policies that would fuel more production. The agrarian revolution was essential for the development of the countries as a whole.

Despite this, the system proved to have its disadvantages. The system was not enough of to finance the countries which demanded more funds due to the rate of growth. The agrarian revolution paved the way for the industrial revolution in that the use of the farming equipment brought about more inventions and innovations. When the world wars took center stage, the countries realized the need for arms and ammunition. This led to the creation of industries that were defined by machines which were used to ease the workload of human beings. The industrial revolution was a great determinant in the way countries organized themselves in all aspects. The creation of industries changed the dynamics of the political system of the world as a whole. Many countries invested in mechanical knowhow so as to further develop their countries by building infrastructure and financing their armies. This set apart the world powers from the rest of the world in that they had authority to influence their ideologies to the rest of the world. Industrial revolution led to the divide of the world powers into two groups. Some of the countries were in support of the socialist system that while others were in support for a democratic way of life. The Americans advocated for democracy which was defined by the giving the society power to choose the leader they preferred. It also allowed for the creation of more than one political party in that the society had the choice to choose from more than one leader. The socialist system on the other hand, was defined by the rule of the nation by one party state eliminating the possibility of having more than one party. The society did not have the opportunity to elect their leader due to the political arrangement that was in place. The two different sided used their power and influence to spread their ideologies to different parts of the world like Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas.

The agrarian and industrial systems of organization played a significant role in determining this factor. The agrarian system contributed to the formation of industries in different parts of the world. This in turn was marked by the invention and innovation of several machines which triggered further indusial development (Moore, Friedman and Scott, p. 1-456).

Analysis of the book of masters and lords

One of the main themes of the book is the difference of the economic systems that were practiced in the north and the southern states of America. The south had invested a lot in their agricultural industries that were defined by cotton and sugar plantations. This system had proved to be very successful to these states in that most of their labor came at a low cost. At this time, slavery had taken centre stage in that all the farmers owned slaves who worked in the farms. The south was intent on maintain this system due to its profitability. This situation was however different the northern states form in that they were intent on moving to the industrial system which involved the use of machines and the development of infrastructure.

The conflict of interest resulted in the occurrence of the civil war that was marked by the separation of the confederate states form the rest of the country. This resulted to the change of the dynamics of the economy of the country. The slavery laws were abolished paving way for the introduction of a new system of governance that recognized the rights of all individuals. The situation in the south is one of the examples that display the capitalism in America. The use of the slave indicated taking advantage of the ordinary man so as a small minority could gain.

One of the arguments concerning the early economy is whether the slavery shaped the economy of the southern states. The southerners argue that they had alternative industries that fueled the development of the states apart from the profitable slave trade. One of the factors responsible for the industrialization was the emergence of the world wars. The wars were defined by the use of arms and ammunition during the battles introducing a new phase in the economy and political system (Bowman, p. 1-357).

Application of social origins of dictatorship to the book of masters and lords

Both books have similarities in that they all display the formation of the early political, social and economic systems. What sets the books apart from each other is the mention of the social origin of different countries in the world. Most of the societies have been shaped through different occurrences in the case of the first book. This is owed to the different structure that the countries adopted. The first book concentrates on social dictatorship and which was mainly carried out by the economic systems such as the agrarian revolution and the industrial revolution. Majority of the peasants were placed under the authority of the masters through the arrangement of the land system that limited growth on the part of the peasants.

In the case of dictatorship, countries that adopted this system had no democracy in the country as a whole. The power is reserved for the powerful minority thus reducing the chances of the citizens to voice their opinion. This system applied to countries like the USSR and the democratic republic of china. Both the countries were a one party state. Such countries selected leaders who had absolute authority and could not be challenged. Moore compares this system to the one of democracy that was adopted by countries from the western sides. As mentioned earlier, the western world is responsible adopting the ideologies that encouraged democracy. Although democracy had its advantages, it was also responsible for the mismanagement of the community. Democracy encouraged capitalist systems that were favored by the wealthy. The capitalist were in control of most of the assets in the country. One of the ways that this system affected the growth of the country was the creation of different social classes. The people who owned the land and property used their power to make more money. This was done at the expense of the peasants in that they were responsible for the provision of cheap labor.

The book of masters and lords, concentrates on America as opposed to the systems of other countries. Masters and lords looks at the difference economic systems of both the north and the south. In the initial stages of the settlement of the British settlers, the preferred way of developing the country was through agriculture. This proved to be profitable in that it led to the invention and innovation of new ideas and machines. As America begun to interact with the rest of the world, it was evident that technology had begun to take centre stage. The south was predominantly known for their support of capitalism. This is similar to the ideas of Moore who emphasized the role of the south in the adaptation of democracy as a principle law.

Masters and lords concentrates on slavery and the role it played in the growth of the American republic. Slavery was categorized as an agrarian system in that the economy was highly reliant on the produce. Moore mentions the agrarian system in other countries where slavery was not practiced. For such countries to be productive, they took advantage of the peasants for very little pay. Both books thus bring out the effectiveness of the social classes and how the wealthy took advantage of the poor to improve on their wealth.

In conclusion, society has gone through a number of phases for it to have reached where it is today. This is owed to the different economic systems that were adopted at the time. All these systems had their advantages and disadvantages in that the wealthy took advantage of the peasants so as to improve their wealth. The shaping of the society ensures for the creation of social classes. The first book talks about democracy and dictatorship as a factor that shaped the world as a whole. The second book talks about how the economic system of the south and how it contribute to the growth of America. Both books are thus essential in that they display how history contributed to the way the societies are arranged in present day.

Works cited

Bowman, Shearer D. Masters & Lords: Mid-19th-century Us Planters and Prussian Junkers. New York, NY u.a: Oxford Univ. Press, 1993. Print.

Moore, Barrington, Edward Friedman, and James C. Scott. Social Origins of Dictatorship and Democracy: Lord and Peasant in the Making of the Modern World. Boston: Beacon Press, 1993. Print.

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Baroque and the Council of Trent

Religious affiliations and organizations have always been a great influence on the lives of many people and civilizations. In this accord, the religious affiliations in many countries affect and change the view of the world among the people who practice it. Religion also contributes to a great extent the formation of culture based on morality derived from these religious organizations’ teachings. The Catholic church is part of the Christian religion which has had a lot of impact and effect on society in various historical times. It has influenced so much of the world that the world’s history cannot exist outside Catholicism because it was a major role player in the formation of the government, educational, and faith-based structures. It is also a source of the rich literature of the brilliant minds of the old and good quality art of people like Michelangelo, known to be some of the best artists who existed in the world whom even up to today still is comparable few artists. (Watson, 166)

With the church and generally religious affiliations comes the artwork. The Catholic Church especially has a rich culture of art whereby they refer to or portray the different saints and the different great people in the church. Therefore the Catholic Church serves as one of the best sources of artwork. However, even though the Catholic Church has had its success stories, it has always been accompanied by issues and controversies, which are almost unending. The church in the olden days existed as the supreme authority, and it was above kingdoms and other forms of governments. However, with its rule, there came challenges, especially within the church, and this was mainly the challenges of some of the doctrines stated in the teaching of the church.

These doctrines, which everyone did not fully accept, brought a lot of harm to the church. The first thing was that there was a need for reformation in the Catholic Church. Due to the inability to reform without issues, Martin Luther decided to drift away from the church so that a reformation could take place (Brecht, 1528). Through his efforts, many changes came to be in the Catholic Church, and these challenges that existed before were mostly rectified over an extended period even though it was a very tough decision for the Catholic Church to accept its mistakes. One of the major responses and which I am concentrating on is the church’s response to the reformation call out through the council of Trent. This council is considered one of the major councils, which made it possible for the Catholic Church leaders to respond to the issues raised by the reformation of Martin Luther.

In this council, there were very many changes in the manner the church operated, and it was stated very clearly in this council the stand of the church when it came to matters of religion and what Martin Luther termed as his 92 theses. These were scrutinized, and even though the church accepted that some were valid and had to be looked into, it still held positions that fifty-two of his writings were heresies and could not be tolerated. The council met between December 1545 to December 1563. The council was presided by three different popes who came to power in the different times it existed (Monson, 20). Some of the significant changes were the vulgar being made the church’s official document as the bible along with the clarification and the determination for a new standard version to be composed. The definition of heresies was also determined and how to deal with them. Other important aspects discussed included; sacred tradition, salvation, justification, biblical canon, mass, original sin, and saints’ veneration. Therefore this council was a great step towards the reformation of the catholic church. From this council, the church has continued to grow, and one beautiful aspect of the church is an art that can be used for visual analysis.

Italy is the place where Catholicism is considered most strong because of Vatican City, the catholic church’s headquarters. It has many types of art and artefacts of great importance to today’s world. The Catholic Church history has contributed a great deal towards this state of Italy. The other country with a considerably rich culture of art and a slightly different religious background can be said to be the Netherlands. Even though the county has a Catholic Church presence to a great degree, the level of practice is not as much as it is in Italy. The two countries have religious forms of art, which are very important in identifying what it means for society. Baroque art was one of the most powerful and the best type of art as considered at that time.

Baroque art began its popularity around the 17th century towards the 1740s, and it was of great significance in the lives of the people of that time. It not only spread in Europe but also spread in places like Spain. In Italy, which hosts Vatican City, I will discuss Caravaggio’s artwork, who was one of the greatest artists at this time, and he helped paint the painting of David with the head of the goliath. This is a clear depiction of the biblical account that David killed goliath when he was very young. In the Spain part, I will discuss Christ’s Disrobing by El Greco. El Greco was one of the artists who were mainly involved in counter-reformation, and he was a very good artist who displayed his work in a which was always and even up to today remain relevant in the world generally but specifically to the world of the Catholics.

These two countries are very related in that their religion is almost similar. Italy could have been called the heart of the reformation, while the reformation brain was Spain. Therefore the two countries practice Catholicism, and they are almost of the same degree. However, Christianity in Italy is brought by Vatican city’s presence as the headquarters of the catholic church, while in Spain, it is due from 1939 to 1979 when it was a mandated nation religion. In this period, it was made mandatory for everyone to attend a catholic church. It was, therefore, at this time, that reformation came and therefore, in the desire to have a counter-reformation, many artists, including El Greco, came up and used art to retain the place of the church and protect its name.

The work of Caravaggio is about David holding the head of the goliath in his hands. (Polinedrio, 30) The work has been dated to be of 1609 to 1610. In this work, we see how David and goliath relate emotionally. This can be seen through the composition of the artwork. It is unique in its way since its colour plays an important role in showing how David hates the goliath and how blood flows from the head of the goliath, meaning it was a fresh fight whereby David had cut the head of goliath freshly after killing him. The blood acts as the perspective of Caravaggio.

On the other hand, Christ’s disrobing by El Greco was a Spanish painting that is of great significance in the anti-reformation campaign. Colour is mainly used to express the ideas and beliefs of Greco in this painting. Jesus is displayed as in a red garment, which might be assumed to mean his kingship and royalty. There are servants and other people around him as he is centred in the painting. The crowd around him threatens, but he keeps on looking up in heaven. This can depict human life, and a lesson that a person should always depend on God, even something unexpected or one which is not good happens (Turner, 310). A man dressed in green tries to pull the scarlet robe of Christ in red. This happens when two others are arguing on whom should have his clothes. The calmness of Christ in this picture is a contrast to the work of the executioners who are trying their level best to harm Christ. Light in the painting helps us admire and see it, thus getting the full concept.

In conclusion, we can say that it is true that these paintings and forms of art are of great importance, especially during the time of counter-reformation whereby the Protestants were in a great conflict with the Catholics over doctrinal issues and which martin Luther addressed in his 92 theses. This is a crucial time for us to consider as it might have been hurting the church and the people who were practising their religions or paganism. These two discussed above are some of the best artists in the countries indicated, and their role in the counter-reformation is of very significant importance.

Works cited

Brecht, Martin. Martin Luther: Shaping and Defining the Reformation, 1521-1532. Vol. 2. Fortress Press, 2009.

Monson, Craig A. “The Council of Trent Revisited.” Journal of the American Musicological Society 55.1 (2002): 1-37.

Polinedrio, Veronica. “Caravaggio and the Head of Goliath.” Kaleidoscope 10.1 (2012): 30.

Turner, Nicholas. “A Proposal for El Greco as a Draftsman.” Master Drawings (2007): 291-324.

Watson, Christine. “Touching the land: towards an aesthetic of Balgo contemporary painting/Christine.” (1999): 163-172.

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Bartleby, the Scrivener

Originally published in 1853, Bartleby, the Scrivener, is a short story authored by Herman Melville, an American writer. It follows a successful lawyer in Wall Street that hires Bartleby to help ease the load of work that his law firm is experiencing. The Scrivener conducts his job well with skill until he earns the owner’s confidence. In writing the story, Melville addresses the issue of capitalism. Melville is trying to say that capitalism has the capacity to dehumanize workers and its stability is dependent upon the illusion that it is a merciless system. At the time of writing the story capitalism was rampant and affected Melville’s works. In my viewpoint, Melville makes a valid argument as capitalism is only meant to benefit a specific group (the rich) while infringing on the rights of the helpless by controlling factors of production.

To make his case about capitalism to his readers, Herman Melville employs various story elements such as comical and descriptive diction and the first-person point of view. Melville uses diction to communicate the narrator’s attitude to Bartleby. The diction is both funny and descriptive. For instance, he shows diction when he mocks the narrator and using his own words to expose his flaws. The first-person narration is evident throughout the text. It enables the reader to get to know Bartleby closely while at the same time leaving one confused. The readers encounter him through his employers eyes. Melville (20) writes, “I repeated my request in the clearest tone I could assume; but in quite as clear a one came the previous reply, “I would prefer not to.” He had just refused to take orders from his boss, who sat on his desk stunned at Bartleby’s reaction.

To some extent, I agree with Bartleby’s argument because I share similar viewpoints with him. I agree that capitalism does more harm than good and that if uncontrolled, it would not only dehumanize workers but also damage that cannot be repaired. Capitalism tends to be exploitative and unstable in nature and it infringes on human and economic rights. As such, I agree that it can be exploitative and dehumanizing on those that find themselves on the receiving edge. The character I relate to in Bartleby, the Scrivener is the lawyer because I have come across people who, like him, prefer the easiest path in life. His ways of dealing with adversity include taking bribe which is something common in society.

Works Cited

Melville, Herman. Bartleby the Scrivener—A Story of Wall-Street. Good Press, 2020.

Li’s Role in Chinese History

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Li’s role in the Tradition of Chinese History

Development of civilization in China started earliest as compared to other countries in the world history (Pines, 2002). The development started about 5,000 years ago. Professor Li, a philosopher, discusses the history of China that dates back to almost a million years ago. Approximately 400,000-500,000 years back, the occupants of the Chinese land were human beings who were primitive (Berry, 2008). In Zhoukoudian, which is in the southwest of Beijing lived an upright Peking primitive man (Dreyer, 2007). He used fire and simple tools for his survival. Residents of the valley of Yellow River about 6,000 to 7,000 years ago also practiced farming and rearing of livestock (Wyborny, 2004).In China, the word ritual refers to ancestral worship ceremonies, parent’s burial and rules guiding the relationship between children and parents (Berry, 2008). The Chinese value and respect their customs and cultures and they view it as honoring an event that already exists. Rituals are performed by those who have belief in them and just someone doing it for the sake of pleasing the audience is just passing time (Ebrey, 2010). It is not encouraging though for a non-believer in rituals to discourage the believer. Strictly speaking, everyone has his own school of thought to perform what he views fit for his lifestyle (Pines, 2002).Socialization of morals lies in one’s daily experiences or the already existing customs a person is accustomed to. Use of common sense as proposed by psychologists to avoid doing things in a manner not expected is discouraged in Confucianism reasoning. Self or group motivation is a way of elevation that can be applied to improve morale and self-esteem (Berry, 2008).Slavery began in the twenty-first century in China. During this period, cattle keeping and agricultural practice significantly improved (Hung, 2001). They also had exquisite skills in blacksmith as smelting of iron increased. The culture of the Chinese flourished due to emergence and increase in the number of philosophers and critical thinkers famously known as Confucius. As a result, a multi- national feudal state that is unified was centrally established. It was the first empire of the Qin Dynasty, the Qin Shi Huang that arose in 221 B.C (Berry, 2008).The society of feudal continued and ended after the war of opium (Dreyer, 2007). China’s culture continued to develop as the economy grew. Technological development in science increased alongside the development of art and literature (Hung, 2001).During the Tang Dynasty, the civilization of the Chinese went a notch higher as they traded globally. Thereafter, Britain that had the interest in trading in opium in China began the opium war in the year 1840. The immense foreign powers by force occupied concessions after the war and China were divided into influence spheres. Therefore, a society that is semi-feudal arose and transformed China (Pines, 2002).The revolution of Xinhai led by Sun Yat-sen in 1911 put an end to the feudal monarchy. Later in 1978 the policy of Open Door was adopted by China thus the self-seclusion history of 5,000 years ended.Three traditions of philosophy have shaped the culture of Chinese. Such include Confucianism that deals with relationships between humans, Buddhism that favors philosophy than religion and Taoism that deals with how nature brings harmony to human (Berry, 2008). The three are teachings of philosophy but not religions as far as the Chinese are concerned (Hardy & Kinney, 2005).Confucianism and its FoundationRather than being a religion belief system, it is ethical and based on the relationships concept (Chou, 2012). According to philosopher Confucius, obligations and responsibility has a dual aspect in relationships in Confucianism (Ebrey, 2010). As a result, every relationship in all levels bears responsibilities and obligations that must be fulfilled (Pines, 2002).Under the right circumstances and with encouragement, Confucianism holds that individuals can control their emotions. It is also considered that for the mind to be thoughtful enough then it should be in its fresh and pure state (Hung, 2001). Li is embodied in the mind and is not influenced by the external factors that are independent. It is a fact that knowing what to do and doing the same right thing is are compatible. It is proper for a person to think correctly and do as his thoughts direct him but not vice versa.Punishment helps keep people in line by making them not repeat the wrongs ones done but does not create in them a sense of timidity in them (Hardy & Kinney, 2005). Though when an individual is guided by virtue and kept in line with rites will help to create a sense of both fear and reform one’s character. Alternatively, it is incorrect to assume that the government is virtuous since it is composed of people with diverse traits.The Confucians have a belief that by doing morally upright things then harmony prevails upon man. Anyway, in all levels of relationships, there is no given point that everyone will be lovely to each other (Chou, 2012).Three PrinciplesThere are three modes of representation of relationships in a society that is highly hierarchical (Ye, Fei & Wang, 2007). Such are the king is the master of the minister, father is the master of the son, husband is the master of the wife (Chou, 2012).Confucianism also entails the five virtues that are always constant and they include rightness, ritual, goodness, credibility and wisdom (Ebrey, 2010). Confucius maintains that the five constant virtues are critically important in every level of relationships and ensures that man lives in harmony (Ye, Fei and Wang, 2007).TaoismLao-Tse is believed by many as the founder of Taoism, a present-day of Confucius. It is the power that governs both the living and non-living things provides equality in the universe. It indicates that for anything right to exist, then its opposite wrong side exists too (Ye, Fei & Wang, 2007). Though it commenced as a combination of both the philosophy and psychology, Taoism, in 440CE, evolved into a religious faith and the state adopted it as a religion. Taoism state support ended in 1911 with the end of Ching dynasty (Ban & Dubs, 1948). In the next period of warlordism, heritage of Taoism was destroyed and there was no more freedom of religion after the victory of Communist in 1949 (Chou, 2012). Temples were confiscated and treasures pillaged as manual labor was put to monks (Ban & Dubs, 1948).BuddhismIt originated from India after being established by Siddhartha Gautama and got its way into China during Empire Han Ming Ti ruling. Gautama was a Confucius contemporary. Though its impact was not immediately felt as its followers were still having a test of it, its fame came during the great time of barbaric and social indecision (Dreyer, 2007). It took place to popularize due to Chinese resistance and their emphasis toward relationships that revolve around society and family (Ye, Fei & Wang, 2007).Gautama realized and felt saddened by the fact that human was suffering and decided to look for alternative means of bringing comfort (Hung, 2001). He realized that the human can overcome pain by overcoming his own desires. He, therefore, came up with a set of rules known as the Eightfold Path that are similar to the biblical Ten Commandments (Ban & Dubs, 1948). The mindset was to bring peace that is spiritual where it is believed that harmony substitutes pain (Chou, 2012).China Buddhism incorporates practices of religion that the Chinese believed brings salvation to them. There has been a mix of Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism since the incoming rule of Song Dynasty. The resultant mix is the philosophy and culture of Chinese (Wyborny, 2004).The Chinese LanguageChinese language is composed of over 45,000 characters though quite a number of the elements in the character have been simplified by the government (Dreyer, 2007). As a matter of fact, memorizing them is easier than before. The language has a variety of tones that make the Chinese words have plenty of meanings. Its grammar is not as complex as those of other languages (Ye, Fei & Wang, 2007).Chinese LiteratureIn the ancient, the Chinese novelists themes revolved around developments that are personal and relationships (Ebrey, 2010). Currently, Chinese writing concentrates on how to modernize China through revolution (Berry, 2008).Differences between the Western and Chinese CulturesWhereas the Chinese culture has much emphasis on relationships in which the concerned parties have an obligation to help each other, western culture emphasizes on freedom, privacy, and personal rights (Pines, 2002). Chinese still value their customs and cultures to date. They believe that giving of gifts is something from the heart and should not be given in a way that shows that it is a bribe. Additionally, priority is always given to guests and they are served with the best (Chou, 2012).Despite the cultural Chinese beliefs, there has been a significant change in the customs and cultural beliefs as China strive to be a modern superpower nation.The Han DynastyFounded by the rebel leader, Liu Bang, who was also an adventurer, the imperial Han Dynasty was the first in China that lasted for a longer time. It rebelled against Qin Dynasty that was the government so oppressive. Liu Bang and his lieutenants created a stable government after several years of political stability. The Han Dynasty is more of a golden age to Chinese in their history. It is composed of two periods that include the former Han Qianhan and the later Han Houhan. Geographically, Han Qianhan represents the western Han Xihan and the Han Houhan represents the Eastern Han Donghan (Hung, 2001).The court residence was in Changan during the Western Han rule and in the Luoyang during the Eastern Han government. The capital shifting from Western to Eastern is a pattern similar to those preceding governments (Hardy & Kinney, 2005). The only variation is that unlike the other dynasties that shifted as a result of military divergences, the Han Dynasty capital shifting was due to economic and political reasons (Hung, 2001).Equipped with apparatus of administration inherited from the Qin Dynasty, Liu Bang formed a government run on the basis of the Confucianism doctrines which ensured that the people’s welfare were well-taken care of (Wyborny, 2004). Measures of strict control of the finances of the state were put into place. Qin’s policy of legalists was adopted and a system that is censorial applied for registration of all the members of households. Bang’s administration came up with strict measures to put the local government into check (Berry, 2008).In the Han Dynasty, there were regions that were under the extreme control of the central government called commanderies which were administered by military commanders (Ebrey, 2010). The commanders were responsible for revenue collection and ensuring that peace prevailed. Due to rebellion from seven other states, these commanderies lost their independence. In 200BC, the Han Dynasty was defeated by Xiongnu and was forced to join the government as an inferior member. Xiongnu’s continued attacks on the Han’s borders forced the leader then, emperor Wu to launch a counter military strike that finally led to the defeat of Xiangnu (Hardy & Kinney, 2005).The sovereignty of Han thus extended to the basin of Tarim of Central Asia after the conquering of Xiongnu, which was then divided into two distinct confederations (Ban & Dubs, 1948). As a result, there was the start of trade along the Silk Road that extended all the way to the Mediterranean (Dreyer, 2007). Chinese silk had demand in the Roman Empire market and, as a result, there was an increment in the level of their wealth. Precious ores such as silver and gold were also traded on (De, 1973).Schools were established under the Han administration so as to promote the ideals of the official scholars. Additionally, the university was further established where the classics of Confucian were studied and thereafter the young graduates became bureaucrats (De, 1973). As the number of graduates increased the state became autocratic. With time, a political culture that was bureaucratic was formed. It helped balance the partnership among the scholars, political and economic elite (Pines, 2002).The Economy and the Social OrderThe Han leadership formed coalitions with other leaders thus they were able to get social support from other diverse regions (Ban & Dubs, 1948). The strategy ensured that the tax base widened hence there was more revenue collection. Promotion of business growth by the state pushed the merchants to form a business partnership with the ruling elites. Funds raised through trade in salt and silk was used in financing the military functions (Ban & Dubs, 1948).There was paper invention that improved the Chinese lifestyle. People started writing as painting with scroll commenced. Confucius teaching would be written as well as literature. The Han administration controlled the businesses of merchants as peasants got dignified treatment for being productive (Ban & Dubs, 1948).Expansion of the Silk Road and the EmpireSignificant economic achievement of the Han’s Dynasty was the opening and expansion of the Silk Road. Eventually, this opened up other routes that merchants could follow to reach out to the customers. As a result, the empire prospered economically and the intermingling led in exchange of cultures. The creation of an army that is powerful was essential to the expansion of the empire borders. The traders were, therefore, assured of security along the Silk Road. Since the military service was made compulsory, the army expanded to a million as compared to the rivals, the Roman Empire, that had about 30,000 soldiers. Settlement of traders and farmers brought lots of development along the Silk Road due to the government’s support (Ebrey, 2010).As most of the kids of the rich were tutored at home rather than being sent to school, the poor had their children taught in school (Ban & Dubs, 1948). The poor in the countryside lived a much peaceful life than those who lived in the city. Canals were built for better and efficient movement of goods and merchants who took advantage of the channels made wealth and invested. The interaction of the Han Dynasty and the Roman Empire brought about religious mix (Wyborny, 2004). The largest Chinese work of historiography known as the Grand Historian Records was done during the Han Dynasty by Sima Qian (Ebrey, 2010). The historiography contains the Chinese history that dates back to 2,000 years ago. It is also during the Han’s reign that the whole modern China proper the Northern Vietnam among others was incorporated into China (Ebrey, 2010).Generally, the Han Dynasty rule brought about changes in social, political and economic arena due to trade and political stability (Ban & Dubs, 1948).Zheng He who was a Kunyang’s second son and was originally named Ma He. He was a born Muslim but embraced different religious cultures as he grew up. His great-grandfather served in the Empire of Mongol as an administrator and was also a governor of the Yunnan during the Yuan Dynasty reign. His father’s surname Ma and the title hajji suggested that they ones made the pilgrimage to Mecca (Wyborny, 2004).Zheng He was captured by the Ming’s general at Yunnan in 1381 as he walked along the road. Zheng was about ten years old when he was castrated and later sent to serve in the Prince of Yan household. The prince lived in the northern frontier which was in the proximity of the hostile Mongol as he governed Beiping. Since they lived in a hostile environment, Zheng became a soldier at a young age and on the other hand participated in Zhu Di’s military operations (Ban & Dubs, 1948).Zheng He commanded his first expedition on the second of March, 1390, when he accompanied Zhu to counter the Mongols. It turned out victorious as Naghachu, the Mongol’s leader, surrendered on realizing he had been deceived (Hardy & Kinney, 2005). He finally became the prince’s trusted advisor (Ebrey, 2010). With the passing of time, he earned the trust and confidence of Zhu. While staying at Beiping, Zheng was educated on Buddhism (Hung, 2001).When Zhu Di’s father died, the prince of Yan was the apparent option as the successor to the Emperor of Yongle but still the empire was taken over by his cousin as the Emperor of Jianwen. Later in1398, Zhu issues a policy that strips the princes of their powers (Ban & Dubs, 1948). Zhu rebelled against his nephew 1399 and defends Beiping’s city against the armies of imperial with the aid of Zheng He as his army commander.Eventually, Zhu Di died and since he had no son to succeed him as the Emperor of Hongxi, Zheng He was apparently appointed as the defender of Nanjing. Zheng He was again appointed in 1430 by the Emperor of Xuande to command the last expedition in the Indian Ocean since he was viewed as a trustworthy comrade.Zheng had been ordered more than ones to be an envoy to several regions beyond China and each time he had several men to accompany him in his fleet of ship (Dreyer, 2007). He was the acting voyage and commercial representative of the court of Ming. He carried with him gifts that were valuable to all the countries he visited which he used as persuasive to lure the rulers of the nations he did visit. His aim was to convince the rulers to develop close ties with China (Dreyer, 2007). During these visits, he could study the customs of the hosts and their habits. His approach was through negotiations and consultations as he ventured into what could be of benefit to him (De, 1973).As a reward, he was given such valuables as precious stones, ivory among others for China. His expertise in the quick learning of the people’s cultures helped him seal deals. Zheng He had a warm reception in every region he visited. Emissaries and representatives of trade of the nation’s Zheng had visited were sent to China too (Hung, 2001). Sociable relations among the countries Zheng He voyages visited had strengthened ties with China and there was an exchange of both economic and cultural values. Visitors to China were treated with lots of hospitalities that always prompted them to keep ties with China (De, 1973).Zheng He’s most ambitious and exciting voyage was his fleet to Africa. It was the fourth adventurous journey and he visited such places as Malindi and Mogadishu among other regions. On his way back to China, he carried with him a giraffe which was a symbol of the region he had visited. Despite the smooth sailing, the fleet also had to deal with the dangerous situations as encounters with the pirates (Ebrey, 2010). He’s voyage was also faced with hostilities from individual rulers who did not like adventurous and intruders into their periphery. During such encounters, he and his men had to come up with strategies to meet the scenarios or live immediately (De, 1973).Zheng had his seventh and last voyage at the age of 59. Though his health was not at its best, it was already an order from the Emperor of Xuande. On his way back after the voyage mission in Kenya after several stoppages, He died somehow when the fleet was in the waters of Indonesia (De, 1973).Zheng He traveled a lot globally to increase the Chinese ties with the outside world and improve the trade. It was also designed to enhance the reputation of China with the other trading compatriots. Due to Zheng’s loyalty and patriotism, quite a number of monuments were erected in his remembrance (De, 1973).The genius in Zheng He is portrayed in his ability to build a big fleet ship that could survive for over thirty years (Hardy & Kinney, 2005). His ability to have about 5,000 soldiers under him without any squabbles and to operate his ship as he toured the world is a capability that is yet to be matched to any other person’s ability (Wyborny, 2004).

In conclusion, Zheng was more a conqueror than he was an ambassador of peace. There is no dispute to this as the number of countries he visited and made business ties with is a record that speaks for itself (Berry, 2008).

References

. China in Venice: From the Han Dynasty to Marco Polo. Milano: Electa.

Ban, G., & Dubs, H. H. (1948). The history of the former Han dynasty. Oxford.

Berry, M. (2008). A history of pain: Trauma in modern Chinese literature and film. New York: Columbia University Press.

Chou, G. A.-L. (2012). Confucianism, colonialism, and the Cold War: Chinese cultural education at Hong Kong’s New Asia College, 1949-63. Leiden: Brill.

De, G. S. (1973). Masters of Chinese political thought: From the beginnings to the Han Dynasty. New York: Viking Press.

Dreyer, E. L. (2007). Zheng He: China and the oceans in the early Ming dynasty, 1405-1433. New York: Pearson Longman.

Ebrey, P. B. (2010). The Cambridge illustrated history of China. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Hardy, G., & Kinney, A. B. (2005). The establishment of the Han empire and imperial China. Westport, Conn: Greenwood Press.

Hung, H. M. (2011). The road to the throne: How Liu Bang founded China’s Han Dynasty. New York: Algora Publishing.

Pines, Y. (2002). Foundations of Confucian thought: Intellectual life in the Chunqiu period, 722 – 453 B.C.E. Honolulu: U Zhongguo li shi bo wu guan., Università degli studi di Venezia., & Istituto italiano per il Medio ed Estremo Oriente. (1986)niversity of Hawai’i Press.

Wyborny, S. (2004). The Han dynasty. San Diego: Blackbirch Press/Thomson Gale.

Ye, L., Fei, Z., & Wang, T. (2007). China: Five thousand years of history and civilization. Kowloon, Hong Kong: City University of Hong Kong Press.

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