Essay 4.2: Discovering My Self-Worth

What initially sparked my interest in educating myself on pre-colonial western African civilizations stems from a heated debate I once had with one of my Hispanic school mates (let’s call him ‘Hector’) back in High School. What started the dispute was Hector’s bold (and rather racist) assumption of Black Africa (I refrain from the term ‘sub-Saharan’) not producing any kind of civilization, thus leading to his reasoning as to why the European conquest of the continent was so ‘successful’. He stated: "Sub-Saharan Africa didn't really produce any strong or formidable nations. I remember feeling a vein pulsate atop my forehead, causing me to grip my desk instinctively. Needless to say, I was taken aback by this statement, and immediately started to protest his ‘theory’. “That’s a highly inaccurate assumption!” I charged.

“Really?” he rebutted, “then name a civilization in Black Africa that rivaled the Europeans.” I was stumped to say the least. I almost refuted with Egypt, however I (as well as Hector) was aware of the seemingly endless debate that currently exists in the scholarly world over the ethnic origins of the ancient Egyptians. I stood there rocking my bottom jaw, contemplating hard to come up with a name, I was stumped to say the least. “There you have it,” Hector continued, “there is not one civilization you can name.”

He then killed off the conversation abruptly in a cold and sneering fashion, leaving me to sit in a state of anger, shame, and embarrassment. I sat there, brewing in a toxic concoction of negative thoughts laced with fury. The very fact that I could not name one single Black civilization had burned me, causing me to question many things about myself. Thoughts ranged from my personal identity, to my own sense of ‘Blackness’. I eventually felt the need to prove Hector wrong, and made it my mission to do so. Little did I know, my research would end up enlightening me on numerous levels. My knowledge of these civilizations would soon turn to realizations, causing me to have a more clear understanding of the global dynamics that surround the pre-colonial history of western Africa. However, it must be made clear. One cannot explore the history of the region as a collective account for all the states/civilizations that existed prior to European colonialism, for that would homogenize not just the history, but the different cultures and societies that flourished traditionally within the area. 

On the evening of the deliberation, I made haste in collecting data to help substantiate my argument. Admittedly I feared that there would be no historical accounts of pre-colonial civilizations, or at least none without a tone of Euro-centrism. As I rushed to my computer, I immediately started looking for online resources for West African civilizations. The first one that happened to have stumbled upon was the Igbo kingdom of Nri. I learned how the Igbo people were skilled in iron smelting, creating a vast array of artifacts ranging from pottery to accessories such as majestically spherical anklets used by maidens. Perhaps what shocked me most was the fact the Igbo people have their own indigenous writing system known as Nsibidi (In-si-bi-dee).  This writing system has existed with them since the 5^th century AD. Not to mention that the Igbo people had their own banking system known as Isusu (Ee-soo-soo), in which there existed an extensive system of loans and savings. The people of Nri also had their own complex religion known as Odinani, in which the principles are similar to that of Japan’s Shintoism. Odinani promotes the peace and harmony of man (mainly interpersonal peace), nature, and the cosmos (central to the supreme god, Chukwu), in which the balance is sacred and is to be upheld through the proper veneration of the ancestors, who will act as the protectors of such a bond. The kingdom of Nri was also reputable for their legacy of using non-violence to extend its imperial powers, for it would send mburuchi (roughly translated = converts) as messengers and would convince communities to give their allegiance to their ruler, the Eze Nri (literally, the Divine King).

I was extremely pleased to have learned about the Igbo people, and while I was impressed at how complex their society was, I was frustrated at how limited the information was. So I continued to look for other complex societies that existed in Western Africa. It didn’t take me long before I stumbled up the Asante (also spelled Ashanti) empire, known as Asanteman in the Akan language. While studying up on the Asante, I was pleased to learn that one of the reasons why the Asante are acknowledged is due to their intricate architecture. Materials such as mud, wattle and daub, were used to construct courtyard based homes and their extensive shrines that were decorated with intricate and vibrant reliefs. This resulted in sophisticated structures that caused even European colonists to marvel. In Dr. R. A. Freeman’s “Travels In Ashanti and Jaman”, he spoke of the complexity of the architecture of his residence in Asanteman. In one instance he stated: “…[it was]…very highly ornamented…[and by far]…the largest in the compound and much more handsome than any of the…[other buildings]…” (R.A. Freeman p. 113). The Asante are also credited for their arts, which in this case would tie in to communication. Similar to the smoke signals that Native American tribes used, the Asante used a system of long distance communication in the form of a drum, the "talking drum" to be exact. Messages would be rapidly drummed well over a hundred mile radius, a concept similar to the telegraph (or in more modern terms, a text message).

After educating myself about these cultures, I came to a point in which I felt highly empowered, and proud. I wasn’t just proud at the fact that the Asante and Igbo existed at all, but rather, they pay testament to the fact that West Africa (as indeed, the rest of ‘Black Africa’) comprised of many vast and complex societies and polities; sovereignties that had long histories and extensive power. However, I was agitated at the fact that there wasn’t enough resources on the history of this region, which caused me to come to a realization of another fact that exists. History is always told by the victor which equates to there being a slant in the story, causing the lines of truth and fallacy to be blurred. That said, I had to accept the fact that the information that colonists chose to ignore (about west African societies) could never be recovered, which is why pre-colonial African History is virtually non-existent in American History books. I was both humbled and angered by this fact.

The following day, as I passed by Hector, I opened my mouth about to resume the intense discussion. Yet, I asked myself, “What have you to gain from arguing with him?” I realized that arguing with Hector would probably not make a difference in how he perceived the African continent, or the African people in general. Knowing him, he wouldn't have cared to listen in the first place. However, I was content in knowing that he had encouraged me to do extensive research on traditional societies that I, as a product of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, could possibly descend from.  So I allowed him to live in his ignorance, gaining full pleasure at the fact that I was enlightened about the history of a region that is often deemed as “plighted”. Despite the fact that information on pre-colonial African History isn't mainstream, I have become empowered on many levels.  Its come to a point in which I flaunt my skin with pride unapologetically, just as how Americans of other races speak passionately and proudly about their cultural heritages. I too deserve the right to exhibit heritage, and I pray that one day that I can pay homage to my ancestors. And I can only hope, that the academic world take African history serious enough to tell the story right, without dwindling their significance as centralized states and advanced civilizations. 

WORK CITED: 

-McGregor, J.K. "Some Notes On Nsibidi". The Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland. June 1909. Web 3 May 2011. 

-Afigbo, A.E. "Traditions of Igbo Origins: A Comment". History In Africa: A Journal of Method. 1983. Web 3 May 2011. 

-Freeman, R.A. "Travels and life in Ashanti and Jaman". Library of African Study.1898. Web. 3 May 2011.

Essay 4.1: Discovering Self-Worth

Race wasn’t always a matter that I took seriously. Like those who had unionized to oppose a system that promoted the overt political, social, and economic discrimination and inequities of a particular group; I have become aware of the dynamics and complex social paradigms that exist within our society today. Through numerous educational outlets, including both institutions and non-aligned organizations I have gained this knowledge. It was a gradual process of education (mainly driven by self-interest), thus equating to me developing an awareness of issues that are of great importance to me, race being one of them. My drive for learning about social issues (not just nationally but globally) has also caused an avid need to stay updated on current events, along with having an acute sense of historical overviews on topics of personal interest. That said, it is that same drive to maintain a good sense of information which has led me to become educated, and dare I say enlightened, on issues that are of importance to me for it is only natural to do so.

Despite my tendency to focus on social issues, I must stress that I do have a deep knowledge on historical overviews of my points of interest. In this case, the pre-colonial history of western Africa is a prime example as how my extensive knowledge comes to play. What initially sparked my interest in educating myself on pre-colonial western African civilizations stems from a heated debate I once had with one of my Hispanic school mates (let’s call him ‘Hector’) back in High School. What started the dispute was Hector’s bold (and rather racist) assumption of Black Africa (I refrain from the term ‘sub-Saharan’) not producing any kind of civilization, thus leading to his reasoning as to why the European conquest of the continent was so ‘successful’. Needless to say I was taken aback by his statement, and immediately started to protest his ‘theory’. “That’s a highly inaccurate assumption!” I charged.

“Really?” he rebutted, “then name a civilization in Black Africa that rivaled the Europeans.” I was stumped to say the least. I almost refuted with Egypt, however I (as well as Hector) was aware of the seemingly endless debate that currently exists in the scholarly world over the ethnic origins of the ancient Egyptians. “There you have it,” Hector continued, “there is not one civilization you can name.”

He then killed off the conversation abruptly in a cold and sneering fashion, leaving me to sit in a state of anger, shame, and embarrassment. I sat there, brewing in a toxic concoction of negative thoughts laced with fury. The very fact that I could not name one single Black civilization had burned me, causing me to question many things about myself. Thoughts ranged from my personal identity, to my own sense of ‘Blackness’. I eventually felt the need to prove Hector wrong, and made it my mission to do so. Little did I know, my research would end up enlightening me on numerous levels. My knowledge of these civilizations would soon turn to realizations, causing me to have a more clear understanding of the global dynamics that surround the pre-colonial history of western Africa. However, it must be made clear. One cannot explore the history of the region as a collective account for all the states/civilizations that existed prior to European colonialism, for that would homogenize not just the history, but the different cultures and societies that flourished traditionally within the area.

On the evening of the deliberation, I made haste in collecting data to help substantiate my argument. Admittedly I feared that there would be no historical accounts of pre-colonial civilizations, or at least none without a tone of Euro-centrism. As I rushed to my computer, I immediately started looking for online resources for West African civilizations. The first one that happened to have stumbled upon was the Igbo kingdom of Nri. I learned how the Igbo people were skilled in iron smelting, creating a vast array of artifacts ranging from pottery to accessories such as majestically spherical anklets used by maidens. Perhaps what shocked me most was the fact the Igbo people have their own indigenous writing system known as Nsibidi (In-si-bi-dee).  This writing system has existed with them since the 5^th century AD. Not to mention that the Igbo people had their own banking system known as Isusu (Ee-soo-soo), in which there existed an extensive system of loans and savings. The people of Nri also had their own complex religion known as Odinani, in which the principles are similar to that of Japan’s Shintoism. Odinani promotes the peace and harmony of man (mainly interpersonal peace), nature, and the cosmos (central to the supreme god, Chukwu), in which the balance is sacred and is to be upheld through the proper veneration of the ancestors, who will act as the protectors of such a bond. The kingdom of Nri was also reputable for their legacy of using non-violence to extend its imperial powers, for it would send mburuchi (roughly translated = converts) as messengers and would convince communities to give their allegiance to their ruler, the Eze Nri (literally, the Divine King).

I was extremely pleased to have learned about the Igbo people, and while I was impressed at how complex their society was, I was frustrated at how limited the information was. So I continued to look for other complex societies that existed in Western Africa. It didn’t take me long before I stumbled up the Asante (also spelled Ashanti) empire, known as Asanteman in the Akan language. While studying up on the Asante, I was pleased to learn that one of the reasons why the Asante are acknowledged is due to their intricate architecture. Materials such as mud, wattle and daub, were used to construct courtyard based homes and their extensive shrines that were decorated with intricate and vibrant reliefs. This resulted in sophisticated structures that caused even European colonists to marvel. In Dr. R. A. Freeman’s “Travels In Ashanti and Jaman”, he spoke of the complexity of the architecture of his residence in Asanteman. In one instance he stated: “…[it was]…very highly ornamented…[and by far]…the largest in the compound and much more handsome than any of the…[other buildings]…” (R.A. Freeman p. 113). The Asante are also credited for their arts, which in this case would tie in to communication. Similar to the smoke signals that Native American tribes used, the Asante used a system of long distance communication in the form of a drum, the "talking drum" to be exact. Messages would be rapidly drummed well over a hundred mile radius, a concept similar to the telegraph (or in more modern terms, a text message).

After educating myself about these cultures, I came to a point in which I felt highly empowered, and proud. I wasn’t just proud at the fact that the Asante and Igbo existed at all, but rather, they pay testament to the fact that West Africa (as indeed, the rest of ‘Black Africa’) comprised of many vast and complex societies and polities; sovereignties that had long histories and extensive power. However, I was agitated at the fact that there wasn’t enough resources on the history of this region, which caused me to come to a realization of another fact that exists. History is always told by the victor which equates to there being a slant in the story, causing the lines of truth and fallacy to be blurred. That said, I had to accept the fact that the information that colonists chose to ignore (about west African societies) could never be recovered, however I was humbled by this. The following day, as I passed by Hector, I opened my mouth, about to resume the intense discussion. Yet, I asked myself, “What have you to gain from arguing with him?” I realized that arguing with Hector would probably not make a difference in how he perceived the African continent, or the African people in general. However, I was content in knowing that he had encouraged me to do extensive research on traditional societies that I, as a product of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, could possibly descend from. So I allowed him to live in his ignorance, gaining full pleasure at the fact that I was enlightened about the history of a region that is often deemed as “plighted”.

Essay 3.2: An Appeal to His Majesty

Special salutations to His Royal Majesty Mswati III, Ngwenyama[1] of the Great Ngwane[2]. I go by the name Caleale Goodridge, and am a student of Ithaca College. I must first congratulate you on a healthy and strong reign over your country, preventing any breakout of civil war which has ruptured in many other states throughout the continent. I must also congratulate you on your efforts, such as retaining a higher literacy rate within the continent and diversifying Swaziland’s economy. However, it is not say that such strides have come about easily, especially when one puts the fact that you are the sole ruler of the nation into retrospect. Needless to say, this leaves you faced with a great deal of responsibilities and tasks to address. Such an abundance of duties are seemingly impossible to all meet. Organizations such as the World Health Organization, are keen to point out that Swaziland has an HIV infection rate of 25.9% amongst adults. Even entities such as the CIA propagate that 69% of Swaziland’s population live under the poverty line. However, contrary to much of the discourse within the international community, I do not wish to use this opportunity to badger His Majesty, but rather offer a suggestion as to how Swaziland can develop herself economically.

Despite its relatively small size, Swaziland is blessed with immensely fertile soil. That said; though it cannot be a major exporter in terms of agriculture, it can utilize the infrastructure it already has and further expand its prowess in food and textile processing. However the main factor that can help Swaziland achieve these capabilities is one that is controversial, yet the benefits that come from it is vast. This “key” if you will, comes in the form of a plant that can well be Swaziland’s premium crop. Hemp, not to be confused with marijuana (or ‘dagga’), is an extremely versatile plant and can be used for a variety of purposes. According to the Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum, hemp can be used for the production of clothing, paper, textiles, even building materials, food products, and fuel. Not to mention that Swaziland has the perfect climate to help sustain the growth of hemp. With a combination of fertile soil and perfect temperature, Swaziland is well poised to take advantage of such an equation and can profit from it tremendously.

Though the opportunities may be immense, it would also help to go more into depth of the capabilities of hemp. Chemicals from the oils found in the seeds and stalks of hemp, can be used in the production of bio-fuel (Hemp Museum). Bio-fuels are a series of fuel types that are made from renewable energy sources, usually plants. Given that hemp is an extremely durable and versatile plant (along with the fact that the country has limited natural resources), Swaziland wouldn’t have to settle with importing crude oil products, for it can utilize its reserves of hemp derived bio-fuels. Hemp can also be beneficial to the budget, particularly when one weighs in the ever rising costs of commodities. Hemp can be harvested two, even three times annually (Hemp Museum). That said, it would make costs on commodities cheaper (should His Majesty be obliged to ensure that there is accommodation for the mass cultivation of hemp) since it grows at a quick rate, which can help enable Swaziland to maintain its competitiveness thus enabling sectors such as textiles and food processing to expand in terms of production output. However, it also pays to be strategic in planning how Swaziland would go about this process, particularly when it comes to diplomacy.

By establishing economic ties through diplomacy, Swaziland would be taking strategic steps to securing its financial future. Currently China is the largest producer of hemp. If Your Majesty were to work towards building an economic system that encouraged the growth of domestic businesses that cultivate hemp, the price and rate of production would prove to be too attractive for investors to ignore.   However, it is not to say that the foreign investors should be the ones to make all the guidelines. Swaziland should issue demands that make investors accountable for upholding Swazi interests, such as requiring foreign companies to pay their employees a “livable wage”. In order to remain tactical in creating stronger economic ties, it would also be of great benefit to Swaziland if it were to establish itself as a major trading hub of Africa. If Swaziland were to build roads that connected it to major routes in South Africa and Mozambique (particularly routes that link to sea ports), it would not only ensure the ease of transport of goods, but the cheap costs of transport could potentially be eye-catching for Chinese investors.

 Not only should His Majesty set his prospects on China, but nations within the continent as well. By the time Swaziland has already managed to reel in enough investors, Swaziland should then begin to export to Nigeria. I mention Nigeria because it is the most populous nation in the continent, and is currently the continent’s second fastest growing economy, making it well poised to become one of the world’s 30 largest economies. Chinese manufactured textiles have ravaged Nigeria’s textile industry due to their low prices. However, should Swaziland export her textiles through China (along with being able to keep up with Chinese demand), China would begin to import more from Swaziland which then leads to Swazi products infiltrating the Nigerian market. Needless to say, the benefits would be even more immense, hence it can add to Swaziland’s competitive edge.

That said, I must acknowledge that ensuring these possibilities could add to the stress of His Majesty, however I am also aware that His Majesty is willing to make sacrifices for his people. I’m sure that His majesty would do all that he can to remedy the nation’s 69% poverty rate (CIA). If accommodating homegrown businesses would require too much money, then perhaps His Majesty should implement a system that is reminiscent of Saudi Arabia’s economy. Turn the country itself into an asset. Currently the Saudi Royal family controls key sectors within its economy (i.e. oil, petroleum). That said, if His Majesty were to establish a corporation (or corporations) that worked on a national scale, it will not only encourage economic activity and increase revenues, but it can also help enable His Majesty to provide a living standard that allows economic mobility for His people. By this time, His Majesty would be noted for his commitment and diligence, and will be remembered for how he had helped transform his nation and its people for the better.

Your Majesty may ask what if Swaziland will gain so much prominence, that it won’t be able to keep up with demand due to its limited space. As mentioned before, diplomacy is key, especially when it comes to making strategic strides. That said, I have noted that Lesotho and South Africa are primary trading partners of Swaziland. I would advise that His Majesty use diplomacy in order to have the company/companies expand to Lesotho and South Africa, allowing it to exploit their lands in order to help sustain hemp growth. Luckily, Lesotho and South Africa have the right climates to grow hemp. Also, the SACU (Southern African Customs Union) and the SADC (Southern African Development Community) already puts Swaziland at an advantage to remain competitive, for her membership of these unions would give her goods preferential treatment in the previously named markets (particularly South Africa) thus allowing the company/companies to grow further, along with the economy.

In essence, my suggestion works more so as a plan. I cannot go into greater detail of the logistics (mathematically speaking) of how things can go about. As mentioned before, I do not wish to badger His Majesty, but lend a suggestion as to how your nation can grow and develop. The decision as to whether or not this idea can be brought to life, rests solely with his Majesty. However, time is of the essence. Should this plan be implemented, the benefits can be enormous. The international community will no longer make a spectacle out of Swaziland’s 42.6% HIV/AIDS infection rate (WHO), for the economy would grow to a point in which the issue would be quelled. And your people will forever mark you as their most munificent and benevolent ruler. I’m sure that after realizing these prospects, His Majesty will make sure that his ministers and other aids see to it that this plan is enforced accordingly. That is, if His Majesty does indeed decide to give this plan a try.

[1] Ngwenyama (oon | gwen | ya | mah) = King

[2] Ngwane (oon | gwan | ay) = Swaziland

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/wz.html

http://www.hashmuseum.com/ 

http://www.who.org/

http://www.sacu.int/  

http://www.sadc.int/

Essay 3.1: An Appeal to His Majesty

Special salutations to His Royal Majesty Mswati III, Ngwenyama^[1] of the Great Ngwane^[2]. I go by the name Caleale Goodridge, and am a student of Ithaca College. I must first congratulate you on a healthy and strong reign over your country, preventing any breakout of civil war which has ruptured in many other states throughout the continent. I must also congratulate you on your efforts, such as retaining a higher literacy rate within the continent and diversifying Swaziland’s economy. However, it is not say that such strides have come about easily, especially when one puts the fact that you are the sole ruler of the nation into retrospect. Needless to say, this leaves you faced with a great deal of responsibilities and tasks to address. Such an abundance of duties are seemingly impossible to all meet. Contrary to the discourse of the international community on Swaziland, I do not wish to use this opportunity to badger His Majesty, but rather offer a suggestion as to how Swaziland can develop itself economically.

Despite its relatively small size, Swaziland is blessed with immensely fertile soil. That said; though it cannot be a major exporter in terms of agriculture, it can utilize the infrastructure it already has and further expand its prowess in food and textile processing. However the main factor that can help Swaziland achieve these capabilities is one that is controversial, yet the benefits that come from it is vast. This “key” if you will, comes in the form of a plant that can well be Swaziland’s premium crop. Hemp, not to be confused with marijuana (or ‘dagga’), is an extremely versatile plant and can be used for a variety of purposes. It can be used for the production of clothing, paper, textiles, even building materials, food products, and fuel. Not to mention that Swaziland has the perfect climate to help sustain the growth of hemp. With a combination of fertile soil and perfect temperature, Swaziland is well poised to take advantage of such an equation and profit from it tremendously.

Though the opportunities may be immense, it would also help to go more into depth of the capabilities of hemp. Chemicals from the oils found in the seeds and stalks of hemp, can be used in the production of bio-fuel. Bio-fuels are a series of fuel types that are made from renewable energy sources, usually plants. Given that hemp is an extremely durable and versatile plant (along with the fact that the country has limited natural resources), Swaziland wouldn’t have to settle with importing crude oil products, for it can utilize its reserves of hemp derived bio-fuels. Hemp can also be beneficial to the budget, particularly when one weighs in the ever rising costs of commodities. Hemp can be harvested two, even three times annually. That said, it would make costs on commodities cheaper (should His Majesty be obliged to ensure that there is accommodation for the mass cultivation of hemp) since it grows at a quick rate, which can help enable Swaziland to maintain its competitiveness thus enabling sectors such as textiles and food processing to expand in terms of production output. However, it also pays to be strategic in planning how Swaziland would go about this process, particularly when it comes to diplomacy.

By establishing economic ties through diplomacy, Swaziland would be taking strategic steps to securing its financial future. Currently China is the largest producer of hemp. If Your Majesty were to work towards building an economic system that encouraged the growth of domestic businesses that cultivate hemp, the price and rate of production would prove to be attractive for investors to ignore.   However, it is not to say that the foreign investors should be the ones to make all the guidelines. Swaziland should issue demands that make investors accountable for upholding Swazi interests, such as requiring foreign companies to pay their employees that a “livable wage”. In order to remain tactical in creating stronger economic ties, it would also be of great benefit to Swaziland if it were to establish itself as a major trading hub of Africa. If Swaziland were to build roads that connected it to major routes in South Africa and Mozambique (particularly routes that link to ports), it would not only ensure the ease of transport of goods, but the cheap costs of transport could potentially be eye-catching for Chinese investors.

 Not only should His Majesty set his prospects on China, but nations within the continent as well. By the time Swaziland has already managed to reel in enough investors, Swaziland should then begin to export to Nigeria. I mention Nigeria because it is the most populous nation in the continent, and is currently the continent’s third fastest growing economy, making it well poised to become one of the world’s 30 largest economies. Chinese manufactured textiles have ravaged Nigeria’s textile industry due to their low prices. However, should Swaziland export her textiles through China (along with being able to keep up with Chinese demand), China would begin to import more from Swaziland which then leads to Swazi products infiltrating the Nigerian market. Needless to say, the benefits would be even more immense, hence it can add to Swaziland’s competitive edge.

That said, I must acknowledge that ensuring these possibilities could add to the stress of His Majesty, however I am also aware that His Majesty is willing to make sacrifices for his people. I’m sure that His majesty would do all that he can to remedy the nation’s 69% poverty rate. If accommodating homegrown businesses would require too much money, then perhaps His Majesty should implement a system that is reminiscent of Saudi Arabia’s, turn the country itself into an asset. Currently the Saudi Royal family controls key sectors within its economy (i.e. oil, petroleum). That said, if His Majesty were to establish a corporation (or corporations) that worked on a national scale, it will not only encourage economic activity and increase revenues, but it can also help enable His Majesty to provide a living standard that allows economic mobility for His people. By this time, His Majesty would be noted for his commitment and diligence, and will be remembered for how he had helped transform his nation and its people for the better.

Your Majesty may ask what if Swaziland will gain so much prominence, that it won’t be able to keep up with demand due to its limited space. As mentioned before, diplomacy is key, especially when it comes to making strategic strides. That said, I have noted that Lesotho and South Africa are primary trading partners of Swaziland. I would advise that His Majesty use diplomacy in order to have the company/companies expand to Lesotho and South Africa, allowing it to exploit their lands in order to help sustain hemp growth. Luckily, Lesotho and South Africa have the right climates to grow hemp. Also, the SACU (Southern African Customs Union) and the SADC (Southern African Development Community) already puts Swaziland at an advantage to remain competitive, for her membership of these unions would give her goods preferential treatment in the previously named markets (particularly South Africa) thus allowing the company/companies to grow further, along with the economy.

In essence, my suggestion works more so as a plan. I cannot go into greater detail of the logistics (mathematically speaking) of how things can go about. As mentioned before, I do not wish to badger His Majesty, but lend a suggestion as to how your nation can grow and develop. The decision as to whether or not this idea can be brought to life, rests solely with his Majesty. However, time is of the essence. Should this plan be implemented, the benefits can be enormous. The international community will no longer make a spectacle out of Swaziland’s 42.6% HIV/AIDS infection rate, for the economy would grow to a point in which the issue would be quelled. And your people will forever mark you as their most munificent and benevolent ruler. I’m sure that after realizing these prospects, His Majesty will make sure that his ministers and other aids see to it that this plan is enforced accordingly. That is, if His Majesty does indeed decide to give this plan a try.

---

^[1] Ngwenyama (oon | gwen | ya | mah) = King

^[2] Ngwane (oon | gwan | ay) = Swaziland

Reflection 2.0

I really enjoyed writing this piece, however I can't help[ but acknowledge that I could have done better. For one, after my essay was reviewed in class, I tried looking for a scholarly source as advised. However, the sources that I found couldn't quite fit into my paper. I was looking for an expert specialized in parenting that gave their input on effective parenting, but I could only find sources that challenged Chua. In my  next paper, I'm aiming for more flexibility in my writing.

Free Write

I already know what my topic will be on. I wish to write about the current situation of Swaziland and point out the harsh paradigms that exist with the kingdom. A small kingdom situated between Mozambique and South Africa, the nation is a classic example of an oligarchy, in which the rich profiteer off of the suffering of the poor. I plan to take the time to point out the economic potential of the country, and propose a possible solution to the country's widespread strife. This could help to dwindle the chances of there being a bloody overthrow of the present regime. However, I would also like to establish that current dissidence that exists in Swaziland make it clear that they wish to retain their monarch, for they view the monarchy as the identity of the people. It would be arrogant of me to say that I am confidant as to how my paper would come about. My main concern is my tendency to concentrate very important data into large paragraphs, making it hard for my readers to comprehend what I'm trying to convey. I am also aware that I am attempting to write a piece that has many concentrations, which could contribute to my audience being left out of the loop. I'll have to create a balance in discussing politics, economics, societal issues, and more controversially, hemp. I can say however, that I look forward to tackling this piece, and I hope to achieve in educating some people.

Essay 2.2: Where Chua Failed

Amy Chua’s, ”Why Chinese Mothers Are Superior” (published by The Wall Street Journal), is a piece that attempts to explain the principles of Chinese parenting and how those values have given birth to a culture that produces high achieving students en masse. However, Chua’s efforts in providing ‘understanding’ of these values come off more so as a rant that is centric to the Chinese culture rather than an insightful article. In fact, throughout her piece Chua maintains a tone that can be perceived as condescending, which could prove to be detrimental to her credibility amongst her audience. With that said, it would be difficult for many readers to regard Chua’s piece as plausible, for it shows bias and fails to adequately acknowledge or credit other forms of child-rearing.

One of the major reasons why Chua’s piece isn’t sufficient is because it had a tone that was centered on Chinese culture. So patronizing was her piece, that it seemingly ridicules the values and ethics of other cultures. In one instance she states: “Chinese parents can order their kids to get straight A’s… [While] Western parents can only ask their kids to try their best” [Chua 9]. Chua’s choice of words clearly paints the Chinese parent as superior, particularly when it comes to authoritativeness. Her use of words such as “order” sends across a message that Chinese parenting requires an immense amount of control, which is portrayed as being essential to ‘successful’ parenting and ensuring a positive academic turnout on part of the student. Juxtaposed to phrases like “can only ask” for example, which appears to illustrate ‘Western’ parenting as too submissive thus being inferior to its Chinese counterpart. Such connotations could work against Chua’s clout as a writer in the sense that she depicts one subject as being better than another. In short, by portraying one culture’s ideologies as being superior to that of another, it is likely that Chua’s readers may reject her piece for they may interpret it is as being ethnocentric. Ethnocentric, by conventional definition, means a mentality or ideology that portrays a particular ethnic group as focal to the world.

What had helped to fuel the folly of Chua’s piece is the fact that she allows her voice to become bigger than her, hence leading her to not give adequate recognition of other cultural parenting styles. In one instance, Chua tries to pass off her use of the term “Chinese mothers” as an umbrella term for other cultures that may share similar values/customs when it comes to child-rearing. She states: “I'm using the term ‘Chinese mother’ loosely. I know some Korean, Indian, Jamaican, Irish and Ghanaian parents who qualify too” [Chua 2]. However throughout the rest of her piece, Chua almost exclusively uses the phrase “Chinese” as opposed to identifying the other nationalities she had mentioned previously. Such a move can cause her readers to feel as if their culture is being ignored, thus failing to appeal to a wider and more diverse audience (probably killing all her prospects in establishing a solid audience).

Chua’s attempt to portray education as a top priority within Chinese society is also one that is contorted, on the grounds that it is a notion that is baseless. As Chua gloats about how education is a pillar of Chinese culture, she provides little to no evidence to substantiate her claim. In one instance, Chua speaks of a ‘study’ that asked ninety-eight women (fifty of whom were ‘Western’, the rest being Chinese) on how education should be enforced upon children: “In one study… 70% of the Western mothers said…that ‘stressing academic success is not good for children’… [while] 0% of the Chinese mothers felt the same way.” [Chua 4]. Meanwhile, Chua has failed to provide any sources to back her claim. With a lack of reliable evidence (or any at all), it will be difficult for members of any audience to view a piece as credible. That said, the absence of proof in Chua’s work could potentially downplay her credibility (along with significance and integrity) as a writer.

Along with presenting unsupported ‘information’, Chua tries to give insight to a concept that isn’t reflected in actuality. In fact, she disregards data to a point in which she not only doesn’t identify her sources, but the ‘theory’ she delivers is also highly disprovable. With huge generalizations like Chua’s, one would expect that the value of education would be strongly upheld by the Chinese government. Especially when one considers China’s “86.7%” female literacy rate in a nation that is “91.6%” literate (according to the CIA World Fact Book), one would expect the figures to be much higher for a culture that deeply values education. That, in contrast to the U.S.’ “99.9%” literacy rate in its populace [CIA]. However according to www.china.org.cn’s, “Expenditure on Education”, a government sponsored web-portal: “… [China]… has increased expenditure on education… [up to] only 3.01 percent of the GDP in 2006…” That, in stark contrast to the United States’  “5.5%” in GDP expenditures for education in the year 2007 [CIA].

One could argue that if education is imperative to Chinese society, then the government would make more of an effort in giving more funding to the education system. And given China’s current economic status as the world’s largest and fastest growing economy, it would be safe for one to suspect that China has more than enough funds in its reserves to put forth extra funding towards its education system. That said, Amy Chua has not only lagged in providing evidence, but her portrayal of education as being a huge priority to Chinese society is debatable as well.

Overall, Chua has made it difficult for readers to widely respect her reputation as a writer. One being she speaks of Chinese values in a light that can be perceived as ‘Sino-centric’. Two being that she allowed her voice to become bigger than her, speaking for not just all Chinese parents, but cultures whose values which she claims could be perceived as ‘Chinese’. Personally speaking, I feel as if this marginalizes me for Chua’s discourse seems to propagate ethnocentrism, as if she were flaunting her contorted views of what "Chinese parenting" is as the supreme answer that can legitimately address any factors that play into a child's poor academic performance. In fact, it would be appropriate for one to label Chua as arrogant, feeding into the 'model minority' theory, a notion that portrays Asians as 'honorable whites'.  Thirdly, Chua provides little to no evidence when it comes to validating her claim. Her lack of sources also don't help to substantiate her argument. And lastly, her argument is so inaccurate, that even statistics from the Chinese government itself doesn’t help to back Chua’s piece. That said, it goes without say that Amy Chua’s “Why Chinese Mothers Are Superior”, can be viewed as nothing more than a well-publicized rant that’s meant to fan a cultural ego.

WORK CITED:

·         Chua, Amy. “Why Chinese Mothers Are Superior.” The Wall Street Journal. 8 Jan. 2011. Web 27 Feb. 2011

·         Central Intelligence Agency. “CIA World Fact Book.”  https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html. 14 Feb. 2011 Web 25 Feb. 2011

·         CHINA. “Expenditure On Education”. http://www.china.org.cn/english/GS-e/238983.htm 11 Jan. 2008. Web 27 Feb. 2011