Economic & Political Characteristics of Asia Francisci WG.11 & 12

Standards of Living Some countries in Asia are extremely poor and developing. Other areas are highly developed with strong infrastructures. Industrialized nations in Asia have economies based on commercial farming and manufacturing whereas poor areas focus on subsistence farming.

Standards of Living Japan is an example of a highly industrialized country. Has high tech manufacturing and is a major player in the global market. Having little natural resources, Japan’s workforce is its most valuable resource. Other industrialized areas include South Korea, Singapore and Taiwan.

Agricultural Activities Primary economic focus of Asia: to feed the enormous and fast growing population. 2/3 of the work force in China, Tibet and Indonesia work in the farming industry. Rice is the major crop in Asia. Other crops include wheat, millet, maize and barley. Fishing is a major economic activity in Asia. Most of the fish that is caught is sold to other countries like the U.S.

Green Revolution: A movement following WWII when Asia started using technological advancements to increase crop production. Fertilizers and modern machinery increased the production of food and saved people from starvation. Mountain areas of Asia use terraced farming: carving out steps on a mountainside and planting crops on each step.

Environmental Issues The desert areas in Asia are growing due to desertification; a dry area becoming increasingly dry with no water regions due to climate or human activities. The forests of Nepal and Malaysia are being cut down by humans causing deforestation; clearing of forests for human development.

Environmental Issues Beijing, China is experiencing major air pollution. Major health problems are associated to this pollution. China is experiencing acid rain pollution. This pollution is the result of air pollution mixing with precipitation. It can kill vegetation and wildlife.

Politics China has a communist government: A system of government in which the state plans and controls the economy and a single, often authoritarian party holds power. Characteristics: 1 party system, classless society, all religions rejected, no ownership of property. Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN): Economic alliance created in 1976 to reduce trade barriers between member countries.

Boundary Disputes China & Taiwan: 1949 Chinese revolution; communists claimed China and the Nationalists fled to Taiwan in 1950. The U.S. is Taiwan’s most important friend and protector. Taiwan has become one of Asia’s biggest traders of computer technology. India & Pakistan: Great conflict between the Hindus of India and the Muslims of Pakistan – both countries fight over Kashmir.

Boundary Disputes Korean War: Fought between 1950 and 1953, the North Korean Communists attacked the non-communist South Koreans. The Russians helped the North Koreans (both communist). The U.S. came to the aid of the South Koreans (democracy). Resulted in the permanent split of North Korea and South Korea; have never signed a peace treaty. 5 million people died; half of the casualties were citizens.

Site vs. Situation Site: Actual location of a city. Island sites: Hong Kong and Singapore. Situation: Relative location of a city. Varanasi, India – point of pilgrimage for Hindus Xi’an, China – trade route (Silk Road) Singapore – maritime trade route