World Cultures

Unit III: Southeast Asia, Oceania and Austrialia

Name: __________________________

SOUTHEAST ASIA [Page 705 709]

A Long History of Diversity:
1. In a paragraph, explain how the early history [prior to 1000 AD] was highly diversified.
The early history was so diverse because there was so much influence from other countries.
China and India were two of the biggest influences. China used to rule northern Vietnam and
that helped them have a big influence. The Chinese influenced Southeast Asia through art,
technology, political ideas, and ethical beliefs. India had an influence because of the religion
that spread. Hinduism and Buddhism influenced religion and art in Southeast Asia after
spreading from India.
2. How was the area of Southeast Asia organized and governed during their early history?
They didnt have the best organization because the states didnt have set borders. They had
something called mandalas and these were states organized as rings of power around a central
court. The only problem with this though was some overlapped each other and caused problems.
3. How did this change from 1300-1800?
This changed because during this time there were 5 main powerful states. These states were
similar to mandalas but they were a lot bigger and more complex.
Colonialism and its aftermath
1. What is colonialism?
This is the process of changing the land into colonies. The Europeans had a lot of ways of
doing this and by the 20th century had all of Southeast Asia except one country into
colonies.
2. What was the only country in the region that wasnt a colony?
The only country was Siam which is now called Thailand.
3. Identify and explain the three ways colonialism changed Southeast Asia.
The first thing these leaders did was set up an organized government. The next thing
they did was force colonies to produce commodities that would help Europes economy.
The last change was sparking nationalism.
4. Skillbuilder: Interpreting Maps [p. 706] -- Answer #1 and #2
It was right between a British and French Country. New Guinea could access both
oceans.
5. What changes came to Southeast Asia during WWII?
Japan occupied Southeast Asia and began to exploit the region for their benefit.
6. How was control of the area in Southeast Asia by Japan different than European
control?
The only difference was the Japanese put Southeast Asians into leadership positions.
7. After WWII, Southeast Asia gained their independence differently. Briefly explain
this statement with examples.
Several nations gained their freedom peacefully. Indonesia had to fight for freedom
from the Dutch.

An Uneven Economy
1. Southeast Asia has a traditional economy. Explain that statement with specific
examples to back it up.
Many nations depend on agriculture for income. Rice is the biggest food crop in many of
the countries. There is also a lack of industry.
2. What is ASEAN? How has it helped to create a region within a region?
ASEAN stands for Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Its an alliance to promote
economic growth and peace in the region. This helps create a region within a region because
its a part of Southeast Asia grouped inside of the whole Southeast Asia.
A Rich Mosaic of Culture
1. How is this area a mosaic of religions? Identify the different religions and where they
are practiced.
This is because there are such a variety of religions practiced all throughout Southeast Asia.
Buddhism is the most popular and widespread. Philippians is mostly catholic, and Indonesia and
Brunei are mostly Muslim. Some practice Hinduism and others follow traditional beliefs.
2. Are there more rural or urban communities in this area?
There are more urban communities because more and more people are moving to cities and
living more modern lives.
3. Interpret the picture of page 709. What does this scene show about diversity in
Malaysia?
It shows the diversity because it is showing all the different religions and different ways people
dress.
OCEANIA [P. 711-715]
1. Identify these terms and explain their importance in the region:
a. Micronesia-tiny islands
b. Melanesia-black islands
c. Polynesia-many islands
d. Subsistence activities-Activities in which a family produces only the food, clothing,
and shelter they need.
e. Copra-dried meats of coconuts
f. Taro-a plant with a starchy root
2. What type of migration is happening within Oceania today?
They have a lot of urban growth as a lot of people are moving to cities for education and jobs.
3. How did contact with Europeans and Americans affect the societies of the Pacific Islands?
Just like the rest of Southeast Asia, people are moving to cities for jobs. Whether it be mining
industries or factories, the jobs are in the cities.
4. What is distinctive about Oceania in terms of its languages?
There are over 1,100 languages spoken among Southeast Asia. Papua new Guinea alone speaks 823
languages.
5. How has modern technology both helped and harmed Oceania?

It helps because it really helps bring in tourists but harms Oceania because it requires things that
threaten the environment.
AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALIND & ANTARCTICA [P.717-723]
1. What prevents Australia from benefiting completely from its mining industry?
The only thing stopping it from being a complete benefit is all the land it takes up to do.
2. What historic actions demonstrated New Zealanders concern for equal rights and social
welfare?
It was the first country to grant women the right to vote and provide pensions for senior citizens.
3. What is the major activity conducted in Antarctica?
Scientific research is the biggest thing that is done in Antarctica.