Intercultural Exchange in Southeast Asia, Research Paper Example

There are several cultural elements that contributed to the human diversity of South Asia. One aspect of this diversity includes the different religion followed in the region. The major religions in the area include Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Christianity (Farmer 1). In addition, there are more than 30 languages spoken which are indicative of sub-cultures in the area. Last, different systems of government have been formed to address arguments that derive from the cultural diversity and personal beliefs of individuals in the region. In spite of the similarities that these regions shared prior to and during intervention by the British Raj, this interference shaped South Asia culture more significantly.

One of the most important impacts of the British Raj on the region was that he trained individuals in the region to have military prowess and acquire the ability to defend themselves. Furthermore, civil administration was more significantly developed. As a consequence, lands were better able to grow produce and the idea of caste or class became more prevalent. The different topography of these lands contributed to the ability for different crops to grow in different regions.

Each region in South Asia has a different type of land, which allows them to produce different types of crops more easily. Some land is flat, while other land is mountainous. Some cities are close to water, while others are not. Some countries are large, while others are small. Overall, it is likely that this geography influenced cultural similarities and differences in the area. Proximity and lack of barriers allow cultures to share ideas and these cultures are therefore more likely to be similar in nature compared to those who are separate (Alberts 5).

 Works Cited

Alberts, Irving, T. Intercultural Exchange in Southeast Asia: History and Society in the Early Modern World (International Library of Historical Studies). I.B. Tauris, 2013.

Farmer, B.H. An Introduction to South Asia. Routledge, 1993.