Exam 18: Encounter and Confrontation: the Impact of Increasing Global Interaction

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Before the arrival of the Portuguese, slavery in Africa was already a common practice. It was primarily based on traditional systems of servitude and was often used as a means of labor and social organization within African societies. Slaves were often captured as prisoners of war or as a result of criminal punishment, and were used for domestic work, agricultural labor, and as a form of currency or trade.

However, with the arrival of the Portuguese in the 15th century, the nature of slavery in Africa changed significantly. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to engage in the transatlantic slave trade, and they began to capture and transport large numbers of African slaves to the Americas to work on plantations. This led to the development of a new and brutal form of slavery, as African slaves were now being forcibly taken from their homes and families and subjected to harsh and inhumane treatment in the New World.

The Portuguese also played a significant role in perpetuating and expanding the slave trade in Africa, as they established trading posts and forts along the coast and actively participated in the exchange of goods for slaves with African rulers and merchants. This further fueled the demand for slaves and led to the widespread and systematic exploitation of African people for profit.

In summary, while slavery was already a part of African society before the arrival of the Portuguese, their involvement in the transatlantic slave trade significantly altered the nature and scale of slavery in Africa, leading to widespread and devastating consequences for the continent and its people.

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The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as "chanoyu" or "sado," is a traditional ritual influenced by Zen Buddhism in which powdered green tea, or matcha, is ceremonially prepared and served to a small group of guests. The ceremony is typically conducted in a specially designated tea room, often with a traditional tatami floor and minimal decoration to create a serene and meditative atmosphere.

The rules and etiquette of the Japanese tea ceremony are highly formalized and steeped in tradition. Guests are expected to follow specific behaviors and gestures, such as bowing before entering the tea room, sitting in a prescribed manner, and using designated utensils to handle and drink the tea. The host of the ceremony, known as the "teishu," meticulously prepares the tea with precise movements and attention to detail, often using a bamboo whisk to froth the matcha and a special tea bowl to serve it to the guests.

The function of the Japanese tea ceremony extends beyond simply enjoying a cup of tea. It is a means of fostering harmony, respect, and tranquility among the participants. The ritual is intended to create a sense of mindfulness and connection, allowing guests to appreciate the beauty of simplicity and the fleeting nature of life. Through the shared experience of the tea ceremony, participants can cultivate a deeper understanding of Japanese aesthetics, cultural values, and the principles of Zen Buddhism. Overall, the Japanese tea ceremony serves as a profound expression of hospitality, grace, and mindfulness.