University of San Agustin

College of Liberal Arts, Sciences, and Education

Iloilo City

History 113 - Asian Civilization

Course Description

This course is a general survey of the history and culture of the different peoples in Asia. It is designed to
provide students an avenue to appreciate Asia’s role in the international community as well as to analyze the
causes and effects of issues affecting the region. Focus will be on the key political, social, economic and cultural
developments of the major peoples from their beginnings to the present. Of special interest will be how they
influenced each other, and how they interacted with Western Civilization in the modern period.

General Objectives

By the end of the semester, the students are expected to:

• know the different countries in Asia, their historical and cultural background and their significant
contributions to the international community;
• describe the similarities and differences among Asian civilizations in terms of political, economic, social,
religious, ethical and cultural aspects;
• develop a keen awareness of the region’s progress and its emerging power;
• analyze the impact of "globalization" to the Asian region; and
• understand the influence of the past on contemporary events and problems (“Historical Mindedness.")

Grading System:

Class Standing Periodic Exam + Class Standing

long test 2
quizzes
class participation
assignments/projects Final Rating = PG + MG + FG
3

Edwin C. Samis, Ph.D.

 History 113 - Asian Civilization

Course Outline

I. Introduction

A. History as Discipline
B. Rationale behind the study
C. Geography of Asia
D. Common Socio-Cultural Patterns

Stop, think, and do

A. The uniqueness of Asia

1. The pride and uniqueness of Asia and Asians

a. People Names and descriptions
b. Places Names and descriptions
c. Culture Uniqueness of the cited culture like foot-binding, rickshaw,
etc.

B. Religion of Asia

Religions Unique Features Teachings/Doctrines

1. Hinduism
2. Buddhism
3. Islam
4. Judaism
5. Shintoism
6. Zoroastriansim

N.B.

Christianity is not included because you have learned much of this religion from your Theology courses.

II. The First Civilizations in Asia

A. Southwest Asia
B. South Asia
C. East Asia

Stop, think, and do

A. In matrix form, write briefly but concisely the significant historical background of the First Civilizations in
Asia and your insights about what you have learned.

Civilizations in Asia Significant historical facts Insights

Southwest Asia

South Asia

East Asia
 B. What makes you proud of Asia?

Civilizations in Asia Persons of interest Contributions to the world

Southwest Asia
South Asia
East Asia

III. Imperialism in Asia

A. India
B. China
C. Japan

Stop, think, and do

A. Watch the films “Gandhi” and “The Last Emperor of China” and write your insightful learnings about
the history of India and China during the period of imperialism in Asia.
B. Why were there Opium Wars? What were the long term consequences of the wars?

Midterm Exam Questions

1. Why study Asia?

2. Cite two Common Socio-cultural Patters among Asians and explain each.
3. What can you say about the belief in karma, reincarnation, and life after death?
4. Who should be blamed for the Opium Wars and why?

IV. Nationalism and Independence

A. China
B. India
C. Israel
D. Taiwan
E. Pakistan

Stop, think, and do

Discuss the following:

1. Nationalism in China
2. Nationalism and independence of India and Pakistan
3. Zionism and the formation of the State of Israel

V. The Contemporary Asia

Stop, think, and do

A. Why China became a communist country instead of being a democratic republic?

B. Describe the following:
a. The Long March
b. The Great Leap Forward
C. Discuss how Japan Becomes an Economic Leader

VI. Cold War and Asia

A. The Vietnam War

B. The Korean War
C. The Afghanistan War
D. The Gulf War

Read articles about the enumerated wars and write a reflection paper about the readings.
 VII.Globalization and Asia

What is the impact of globalization to Asia in terms of politics, economy, and culture?

Final Exam Questions

1. Why is terrorism very prevalent in Asia?

2. What lesson/s can be learned from the Cold War affecting Asia?
3. How do you see Asia in terms of politics and economy vis-à-vis other regions in the world in the next
decades from now?

Final Requirements

a. A term paper about issues or concerns affecting Asia.

 To be personally presented via power point presentation

b. Students Portfolio (for each unit, you are required to write a reflection journal on topic of your
choice)

Edwin C. Samis
Rhoads Murphy