| Erica B. Svatek |
An Interdisciplinary Study of the Himalayan Region
| Home |
| Geography |
| Religion |
| Literature
& Art |
| Modern Conflicts |
| Connections |
| Resources |
| About the Author |
| Bibliography |
Cultural Diffusion:
The spread of ideas and technology through trade and warfare.
The spread of ideas and technology through trade and warfare.
This is the pivotal concept for all of global history. My students must walk away from their 9th grade global history class (ancient world history) having a full understanding of concept of cultural diffusion. When I see them again for 10th grade global history (modern world history) they must carry their understanding of this term and apply to modern historical events.
How do the Himalayas help me teach cultural diffusion?
- By discussion the spread of Hinduism and Buddhism through Central, Southeast, and East Asian civilizations.
- By addressing the blend of religious ideas in various regions of the Himalayan Mountains.
- Through teaching about the Silk Road and the emergence of trade cities within the Himalayas.
- By analyzing early accounts of interaction between various ethnic groups within the Himalayas and interactions with ethnic groups from outside of the Himalayas.
- Tracking the spread of artistic forms and practices
throughout the various elevations and sub-regions within the
Himalayas.
- By listing all the modern nations that comprise the "Himalayan Region."
- By listing all the different languages spoken in the Himalayas and their connectivity to European languages.
- By analyzing the religious festivals and holidays that are
practiced within the Himalayas and contrasting it to religious
practices from other regions of the world.
By adding the Himalayas into your course curriculum you will be adding in layers of knowledge, critical thinking and higher level thinking skills, and broader world perspective for your students.