Message from gmora

[Anonymous]

When discussing the new imperialism with my students I always address the changes in culture. In the 1800s, Westerners advanced into non-industrialized countries hoping to sell their industrially produced goods at a great cost to local people and their culture. Westerners were hoping to make money and considered trade mutually beneficial to both societies. However, I ask my students to consider what was lost when colonized societies were transformed (traditional dress, foods, belief systems, cultural identity)? Although, the opportunity for economic development is great in Vietnam, what will this young generation lose in exchange for modernization?