Chapter 6 Documents: Axum and the World

 Unlike previous documents we have studied in our textbook, these particularly documents are centered around the Axumite Empire; as oppose to various empires or places visible throughout the chapter.  Typically when we analyze the documents correlating with specific chapters, a variation of places are presented to us; however, that is not the case with chapter six documents.  I believe the reason that all four documents are focused around Axum is simply because it is one of the few places in Africa that possessed a significant amount of documentary evidence.  In addition, the other part of chapter six is divided among the Americas.  The civilizations within the Americas severely lacked the levels of documentary evidence found in places like Axum; thus making the Axumite Empire the hot topic for discussion within the chapter six documents. 

After reading the documents, I found the state of Axum to be a highly unique and fascinating.  In document 6.1, Axumite culture appeared extremely diverse, as it represented a gateway into other worlds and cultures.  The anonymous author in the document writes: “there are imported into these places undresses cloth made in Egypt for the Berber; robes from Arsinoe; cloaks of poor quality dyed in colors; double fringed linen mantels; many articles of flint glass...cooking utensils and cut up for bracelets and anklets for the women...” (Strayer 293).  After reading this, I wanted to visit Axum! The wide range of products from all over the world intrigued me!

Document 6.2 returns to roots of the Axumite Empire. The text describes the conquests that established the Axumite Empire.  However, I was surprised to read the the empire originated from somewhat Greek roots. I found most fascinating that the state worshiped fictional gods such as Zeus, Ares, and Poseidon; primarily because the state later became known as a predominately Christian empire. 

After reading document 6.2 I was a bit confused reading about Greek culture observed in early Axum, but document 6.3 answered some of my questions, in regards to the origin and overall spread of Christianity throughout the Axumite Empire. The origin of Christianity in Axum obviously represented a major change in culture and history for the state. I was quick to learn that a boy by the name of Frumentius, had a huge impact in the transition to Christianity.”Frumentius held the reins of government in  his hands God stirred up his heart and he began to search...” (Strayer 296). Frumentius influence became quite receptive to the royal family of Axum, and so began the spread of Christianity. 

Document 6.4 conveys that the Axumite Empire was not only concerned with Christianity, but also their economic ties to the world. What I found most interesting about these documents is the  processes of trading products for gold. “The owner of the meat approaches, and if he is satisfied he takes the gold away... If however he is not satisfied, he leaves the gold...” (Strayer 297).  This unique (speechless) style of business or trade was due to the vast number of different languages within the region.  This style ensured that a proper transaction could take place, without the need of an interpreter.

Before reading chapter six, I honestly had never heard of the Axumite Empire before, or at least I don’t ever recall reading or learning about the empire.  I found that these documents really allowed be to grasp some of the key aspect that made the Axum Empire unique and rememberable. 

Chapter 5: Inequalities in Eurasia/North Africa

       As the second wave of civilizations inhabited our world, s did the growth of inequalities in Eurasia and North Africa. Chapter five in our text book, provides details of    inequalities that further evolved in China, India, Greece, and Rome.  Interestingly enough, each of these counties developed their own structure of society which simultaneously took on massive inequalities. 

In China, society was structured around the wealthy males.  Political power and state officials came with a prestige social status.  Primarily the wealthy males were trained as a potential officer,and those who passed the test could be selected as an official. “After passing the examination, which shows something of fame and fortune that awaited an accomplished student as well as the continuing loyalty to family and home that ideally marked those who succeeded” (Strayer 22).  Clearly at this time in China, the teachings of Confucius were highly influential; as society was structured around educating officials yet maintaing the value of one’s family, two thing the Confucius strongly emphasized in his teachings. The vast majority of the population was not these wealthy officials, but peasants. Peasants are not slaves but people who were extremely poor owning little to no land. Because the peasant population was so immense, rebellions often broke out. The Yellow Turban Rebellion was the strongest and most massive rebellion, which sought for great peace or equality. Although they did not get exactly what they were looking for, they did manage to weaken the economy and overall states in China.  What I found most interesting was the the peasants were actually honored and celebrated  in the official ideology of the sate.  The peasants were considered the backbone of the country, while peasants were viewed as scum.  Merchants did not starts rebellions, but were regarded as selfish , luxury-loving, and materialistic.  Merchant were thought to unfairly gain their wealth, while impoverishing others. 

Similarly to China, in India birth determined social status; however, the caste system was unique and original to India. I know that the cast system started with racial encounters between the light-skinned Aryan invaders and the dark-hued native people.  These beginnings have evolved into a much more complex caste system, which I honestly find a bit confusing. From my understanding, at birth you are placed into one of the four caste system which you are pretty much stuck in for the remainder of you life. Hindu aspects definitely influence these Indian societies, as the particular caste you are born in reflects the good or bad deed of your previous life. Unlike China, Indian rebellions did not break out because the lower classes or peasants on the caste systems were divided.  This made it difficult for the poor and oppressed to gain enough strength to begin a rebellion, depicting another aspect of that favored the wealthy or elite. 

In the Roman Empire slavery was highly prevalent, as one third of the population were slaves.  Even the poor throughout the Roman Empire had two to three slaves, which I found astonishing. Some slaves did have limited rights, some had no rights, and some were lucky enough to receive freedom from their masters. Due to the vast number of slaves, no role was off limits.  THe slaves obtained countless roles that their master wished of them. When the slaves realized that they were a vast portion of the empire, they began a rebellion, The Rebellion of Spartacus. that lasted for two years. After the rebellion gained much success, but when its time came to an end, 6,000 rebel slaves were crucified. Thus reclaiming the elite as the ultimate rule over the empire. 

The dynamic differences between the cities of Sparta and Athens is quite intriguing, in regards to their sense of structure and their opposing priorities.  Athen and Sparta were both cities in Greece, yet had very different understands of a woman’s role in society.  In Athens woman functioned to manage domestic affairs.  They had little economic power and laws prohibited them to buy or sell land. Athens was a political centered city, giving woman “traditional” roles to assume. Sparta on the other hand was a military based city, meaning that men were often away in battles or training for war.  This meant woman accumulated much more power.  Woman were given the right to buy or sale land.  As girls they were even encouraged to play sport, to strengthen their bodies for childbearing.  Overall woman were offered greater freedom and were not segregated because they were an essential part of the Spartan life.  Although the Spartan society emits gender egalitarianism, Sparta was clearly a patriarchy. However, I don’t find anything wrong with Sparta’s patriarchal system. As a woman I am not offended that the Spartan man use their woman for breeding machines, to create great warriors. In fact, if I had to live in any of the places mentioned in chapter five, it would most definitely be Sparta.  There city worked in harmony to create a lifestyle that the people cherished, and most importantly both man and woman assumed vital roles within their society. 

Chapter 4: Documents

       I found the chapter four documents interesting as it depicts the ideology and religious beliefs of the various second wave civilizations and empires.  I am intrigued as to how each civilization adapted their own set of beliefs and religious values, in which some still exist prominently today. 

The first document are recordings from Confucius.  Confucianism thrived throughout China, and it was something that varied greatly from the previous beliefs of Legalism.  The documents are a collection of some of Confucius’ most profound teachings and thoughts. As I read The Analects, I thought this man is wise.  However, some of his response lead me wandering or wanting more of an explanation, as he answered questions with more questions.  When asked about death Confucius says “While you do not know about life, how do you know about death?”  I though this is true, but I wanted to know more, how does Confucius really feel about the afterlife. Although wise, I feel as if he is somewhat unclear.  

The second document are reflections from Hindu scriptures.  Krishna is responding to a moral conflict of killing one’s own blood in a battle.  Interestingly enough Krishna says it would be a sin if one did not kill for it would please Brahman to fight a righteous battle. Krishna emphasizes that those that die will be reborn. He says “For to one that is born, death is certain, and to one that dies, birth is certain.”  Comforting the man, for his family will not simply die, but will be reborn in a different body. Krishna says that he has been reborn time and time again, and one can control the quality of reincarnation by doing good deeds or living morally according to Brahman.  Although I do not agree with these ideas or philosophy of life, I find it entertaining. 

The third document is was a recording by Plato of Socrates, an Athenian’s philosopher, accused of impiety and corrupting the youth of the city.  After reading the Apology, I personally found Socrates innocent of the crime.  In some aspects Socrates reminds me of Confucius, both extremely wise in there words, frequently asking questions to promote critical thinking. Similarly to Confucius, Socrates does not speak of religious theology, although he does mention God.  Socrates make the greatest emphasis on one’s soul.  He  explains that people walk around consumed by materialistic objects and caring too much of one’s status, when they should really focus on gaining wisdom for one’s soul.  Socrates defends himself by stating that he was attempting to aid the works of God by enlightening the citizens of Athen about one’s soul.  I like the fact that Socrates has an immense sense of pride for himself and his philosophies,  not even death can manipulate any of his thoughts.  He sticks firmly to his word, and if that puts him to death, than so be it.  Socrates’ death did have a profound impact on the Greece, as philosophy and rationalism consumed Greece civilians. 

Document four comes from the bible, The Gospel of Matthew. Jesus is recoded, as he teaches a sermon on the Mount.  Jesus enlightens his disciples teaching to love your enemy, never retaliate, never judge, and do not commit righteous acts in order to achieve praise from your peers. All of Jesus’ teaching appear moral and foretell the coming of the kingdom of God.  Jesus also has a poised way of conveying his teachings.  His sermons and teachings obviously had a substantial effect on his disciple and future believers, for Christianity still thrives today.  

Although all four documents emphasize various ideas, one thing is similar;  all convey a sense of moralism, as they promote the differences between right and wrong or good from evil.  It is fascinating to see how these significant figures, recorded in the documents, play a profound role in shaping societies and religions.  

Chapter 3:Documents Regarding Empires

          This past summer I had the privilege of traveling throughout Europe.  During my travels, I encountered many ancient Roman ruins.  When I arrived in Greece I was astonished to see the same architecture and ruins that I had previously seen in Croatia, and Turkey.  It is beyond fascinating that in the Ancient Era, the Romans created such a vast empire, and proof of their empire still exists today. I have witnessed it first hand! In the city of Ephesus, located in Turkey, I was literally able to walk through an entire Roman palace. It was an eye opening experience to stand in the middle of the ancient amphitheaters, were not only gladiators fought, but preachers such as Paul, the disciple, shared the gospel.  Experiencing history first hand, has really enabled me to connect to what I have read in history books throughout my academic career, and has further excited me about this particular chapter in our textbook. 

These documents provide us with insight about the various governments throughout the empires.  It is interesting to hear the different perspectives of the two rulers and two scholars, as they share with us their opinions on the governments. Notice how I said “opinions,” meaning that not everything stated in these documents is a reliable representation of how the governments actually worked. 

The first document is provided to us by Pericles, the Athenian leader. He perceived himself and his form of government, much differently than it actually was. In “The Funeral Oration,” Pericles rants on and on about his democracy. He paints a picture where all citizens have the same rights, and justice is provided for all.  This may be true to a certain extent, but not everyone qualified as a citizen. Women, slaves, and foreigners, were led out of that realm. His speech is also contradicting in that he speaks so highly of his superior military, yet they had lost in the Peloponnesian War.  I find it  difficult to take Pericles’ representation into account, given so many contradictions. The picture he conveys  of Athens appears flawless, which is a clear indicator that he may have construed various details in his speech.

Aristides, a scholar, appears captivated by the Roman Empire, as he makes a speech to the Emperor in “The Roman Oration.” Aristides language varies greatly than that of Pericles, much more figurative language used, can tell he is a scholar. “Much greater in good order than it is in circumference.”   Aristides emphasizes that Rome is vast, yet more importantly the empire is operated in a suffice manner.  He further explains, that there is a great and fair equality between all classes and statuses. It is true that Rome did make many “outsiders” citizens. During the times this speech took place, Rome was in its prime, possessing the greatest extend and authority throughout its history.  Maybe Aristides was so amazed because no one had ever observed an empire, greater than that of Rome. 

Chinese writer, Han Fei, describe a political system driven by law, referred to as Legalism.  Our texts explains Legalism as clear rules and harsh punishment. Leading to the “two handles” of chastisement and commendation, or in other words punishment and praise. Han descriptions are much different from Aristides and Pericles, who have painted picture perfect empire. Han emphasizes to govern the state by law is to praise the right and blame the wrong.  However, due to human nature it is somewhat impossible to keep rule in place because ministers are afraid to punish.  However it is also dangerous to place the two handles into the hands of other because than the people will fear the ministry, instead of the ruler.  Therefore the ruler has no choice, but to enforce the laws himself; those would comply shall be rewarded, but those who violet the laws shall be punished. 

Ashoka philosophy of government is much different from the other empires.  He first cam to rule to expand his own power, but came to a turning point, where he veered to Buddhism. Ashoka writes: ”Now Beloved-of-the-Gods thinks that even those who do wrong should be forgiven where forgiveness is possible.” This philosophy is completely opposite from Han’s writing of the Chinese Empire, who would punish those who do wrong. Ashoka is the first to recognize rights for animals.  He diminished the usual sacrificing of animals and places instead medical treatments for animals. His officers work to promote the Dhammaas well as people's rights. However Ashoka believed contact between religions is good, so that people did not glorify their own religion excessively. Ashoka’s writing represent an overall sense over respect for himself and others, he emphasize that one should respect the doctrines provided by other. 

Although these empires occurred in the same era, it is fascinating to see how diverse their political system were, and overall lifestyles. There are pros and cons to every political system, making it interesting to see how each empire thrived or filed throughout history.