Essay 3 — Worth 8 Points: Ralph Linton Rewritten

Essay 3 -- worth 8 points Suppose Ralph Linton were to rewrite his essay “One Hundred Per Cent American.â€

Suppose Ralph Linton were to rewrite his essay “One Hundred Per Cent American” focusing on those American items that originated with or were heavily influenced by gifts from ancient China. How would his new essay read? Write 500 to 600 words, beginning with the phrase: “[Choose a name] wakes up unaware of how many aspects of her/his day were developed in China....”

Paper For Above instruction

In contemplating the myriad ways Chinese innovations and cultural influences have permeated American daily life, one begins to realize how deeply interconnected our societies have become. Imagine a person waking up in the United States, unaware that many of the modern comforts, objects, and practices they embrace daily are rooted in ancient Chinese inventions. This realization underscores the profound impact of Chinese civilization on shaping what we now consider quintessentially American.

First, the very act of waking up and preparing for the day often involves technological innovations originating from China. The modern alarm clock, while now digital and electronic, has its roots in ancient Chinese innovations in mechanical engineering and timekeeping. The development of early gunpowder-based fireworks, used today for celebratory purposes across America, originated from Chinese alchemy and invention. These fireworks have become a staple at national celebrations such as the Fourth of July, intertwined with American festivities but fundamentally Chinese in origin.

Secondly, the person's breakfast might include foods that have been fundamentally influenced by Chinese agriculture and cuisine. The popularity of soybeans, used in numerous American products such as tofu, soy milk, and soy-based meat substitutes, originates from ancient Chinese agriculture, where soybeans were cultivated extensively as a vital protein source. The ubiquitous use of tea in American daily life, whether in homes, cafes, or offices, traces back to China, where tea drinking began over a thousand years ago. Its soothing properties and social customs have been adopted globally, becoming ingrained in American culture.

Additionally, the person's clothing and accessories could reveal Chinese influence. The silk fabric, once a luxury item controlled by Chinese artisans along the Silk Road, revolutionized textile industries worldwide. Today, silk remains a popular material for clothing and accessories, symbolizing luxury and craftsmanship. Furthermore, traditional Chinese fashion elements, such as the Mandarin collar or silk scarves, influence contemporary American fashion trends, blending international aesthetics.

Transportation and architecture may also bear traces of Chinese influence, albeit indirectly. The Chinese invention of paper had a transformative impact on communication and documentation. The widespread use of paper in the U.S., for newspapers, currency, and books, traces back to ancient China's innovation. Although the modern cars or skyscrapers are Western developments, the appreciation for Chinese-designed motifs and feng shui principles sometimes influences architectural layouts and interior designs in the U.S.

In the realm of medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has significantly influenced American health practices. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and tai chi have gained popularity as complementary therapies, illustrating a blending of Eastern and Western medical philosophies. The use of medicinal herbs imported from China exemplifies the long-standing exchange of botanical knowledge, which continues to benefit health and wellness in America today.

Finally, the person might not realize that the concept of paper money used in the U.S., along with its banking and currency systems, has parallels in ancient Chinese monetary systems. The Chinese invention of paper currency during the Tang and Song dynasties laid the groundwork for the modern monetary practices we observe worldwide. These financial innovations from China have enabled complex economic systems that support the modern American economy.

In sum, a seemingly ordinary day in America is intricately infused with Chinese contributions. From technological innovations, foods, textiles, and health practices to financial systems and entertainment, ancient Chinese inventions and cultural elements have profoundly shaped American society. Recognizing these influences reminds us of the interconnectedness of civilizations and the importance of cross-cultural exchanges in shaping our world today.

References

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