Monday, July 18, 2011

Chapters 11, 12, 13

This section was a little tedious.  Basically the same references to the empires and affects of the spread of the empires.  Chapter 11 did an ok job of explaining the spread of Islam and life of Muhammad.  I think Strayer could have given more detail on Muhammads teachings and religious beliefs, especially after the events of 9/11.  The divide in the Islamic world was touched on briefly, but also could have gone into more detail as far as "rightful" successor to Muhammad and turmoil that ensued after his death regarding power. The most important aspect of this section, to me, was how the spread of Islam also created a network of trade and improvements to existing technology.  The pilgrimmage to Mecca allowed for an infusion of cultures to flourish.
Chapter 12 discusses the Mongol empire.  This was interesting to me.  I had heard of Chinggis Khan and knew he was a strong leader that used "barbaric" methods for conquest.  What was interesting to me is that the empire originated from a small army into a more powerful army that, according to Strayer, needed something to do, thus the conquest and expansion towards China. There was no real plan for the empire, it just took on a life of its own. The Mongols ruled with brutal force.  However, if there was something you could contribute to their lifestyle, you were saved, but under their strict command.  I wish Strayer went into more detail about the plague that originated in Central Asia and spread to Europe.  Strayer gives some detail as to the gruesomeness and spread of the plague, however I would have liked to hear more on how the societies and communities were affected and how they handled the ineffected and dying.  Its amazing that this was the first recorded instance of biological warfare.  Although the Mongols were barbaric and cruel, they're empire was impressive, especially since they hay had no original intentions of growing so large.
Chapter 13 discusses the power and wealth of China, which seems to be a reoccurring topic throughout the chapters thus far.  It is impressive, as far as their power and history, and if anything, I think this should be addressed at the highschool level, as well.  I had no idea how much influence China has had over the years and the massiveness of their development and contribution to technology.  It's amazing that they had a grand ship, much larger than the ship used by European explorers like Columbus, and yet they never ventured very far.  However, like Strayer explains, the Chinese had no need to explore out as they already had what they needed.  But it is a bit awesome to think of how much our history would have changed and who the world powers would be today had China ventured out and "discovered" the Americas instead of the Europeans.