Abstract
This paper discusses the impact of the Chinese New Year festivities in San Francisco with respect to assimilation. The paper relates that the formerly private parades and events were opened up in the 1950s and served to blend the cultures of the United States and China. The paper then discusses how the economy of San Francisco's Chinatown community benefited as the Chinese attempted to shake the communist label.

From the Paper
"In the cosmopolitan city of San Francisco, many cultures have come together to give the city a unique identity. Other than Chinese immigrants, those from Japan, Europe, and South America have put their unique stamp on the city's personality. The Chinese had a rather challenging period of assimilation due to the connection with Communism in their home country. By capturing the imagination of their new homeland they found ways to bring their worlds peacefully together. While Chinese immigrants have a rather large presence in the famous Chinatown neighborhood, their daily lives have been touched by heavy influences of..."

Tags:chinese, festival, american

Abstract
This paper discusses the history and current practices of the Chinese New Year. It looks at the origins of the festivities and at the Chinese New Year traditions that have been carried on throughout the ages. It then discusses the superstitions that are associated the lead-up to and celebration of the Chinese New Year. Finally, the paper discusses the significance of each of the fifteen days of the Chinese New Year.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Ancient Chinese New Year
Traditions
Superstitions
The 15 Days of Chinese New Year
Conclusion

From the Paper
"On the actual New Year's Day, hair should not be washed as this will wash away good luck for the New Year. Red is the color chosen for clothing, as it is a bright, happy color which encourages a bright future (as well as serves to fend off Nian). Children and unmarried friends are given "lai see", which are small red envelopes containing money for good fortune (ibid). Other superstitions include the consulting of an Almanac before heading out (in order to find the "best time" for doing so), the prohibiting of scissor and knife use (as this may "cut off" good fortune), avoidance of people in their bedrooms (this is considered bad luck) and external environmental cues. These include the words one first hears on New Year's Day (these are considered to reflect one's fortune) and signals such as songbirds or red-colored birds (these are supposed to be good luck) (ibid)."

Tags:ancient, lunar, Nian, calendar

Abstract
This paper explores in detail the tradition of Chinese New Year, which begins with the first day of each New Year, ending on the following full moon fifteen days later. The paper explains that theChinese New Year calendar is arranged according to solar and lunar movements, whereby lunar movements occur approximately every 29.5 days. Like the Western New Year, the Chinese New Year is a cause for celebration and thanksgiving, for families and also reunions. However, many of the traditions and characteristics of the Chinese New Year vary in a number of significant ways. The Chinese New Year is a unique yet traditional celebration of the New Year for a fascinating land and culture - and is celebrated all over the world.

From the Paper
"The Chinese New Year begins with the first day of each New Year, ending on the following full moon fifteen days later. The Chinese New Year calendar is arranged according to solar and lunar movements, whereby lunar movements occur approximately every 29.5 days. Like the Western New Year, the Chinese New Year is a cause for celebration and thanksgiving, for families and also reunions. However, many of the traditions and characteristics of the Chinese New Year vary in a number of significant ways. The Chinese New Year is a unique yet traditional celebration of the ..."

Tags:monkey, phoenix, rooster, animal

Abstract
This essay discusses the differences between Canadian and Chinese New Years. It further notes that the Canadian New Year, following the solar calendar occurs each year on the evening of December 31/January 1, with toast and singing at Midnight. The Chinese New Year begins on the first New Moon after January 20, and runs through a fifteen day period of feasts, family reunions, and celebrations, ending with the Lantern Festival.

From the Paper
"The traditional Canadian New Year is celebrated with parties which begin on New Year's Eve and climax at midnight. Based on a solar calendar, the holiday is celebrated on the same day each year, December 31/January 1. It is typically marked with toasts of champagne at midnight and the singing of "Auld Lang Syne." The Chinese New Year is more elaborate and lengthy. It begins with the first new moon after January 20, and ends with the full moon 15 days later, marked by the Lantern Festival, with lantern displays and parades. Based on the lunar cycle of approximately 29.5 days, the Chinese New Year falls on a different date each year."

Tags:new year, chinese, canadian

Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that Japan and China are similar in a sense because they share some traditions, beliefs and cultures; yet they are dissimilar for the same reasons. The writer notes that if one looks at the present day celebration of the New Year in China and Japan, one may think that it is overly commercialized like the western traditions of Christmas and Easter. The writer maintains that if one examines it deeply, one sees that the religious facade is still there and most Japanese and Chinese will relate to a lot of religious traditions embedded in these festivities. The writer concludes that after all, most celebrations celebrated worldwide whether Christmas, Easter or the New Year would not have been in existence today without any real religious roots or traditions that signify their deep and true meanings.

From the Paper
"The New Year's festivities for one are one of the most important celebrations of the country embedded in deep traditions and rich culture. China follows both the Western New Year and the Lunar New Year but the latter is more important. Japan considers the Western New Year more important and holds big celebrations. Although religion is not a big part of the two countries New Year celebrations, some of the activities and beliefs have its roots on religious flavors."
"The earliest known history about the Chinese New Year had something to do with the legendary Nia."

Tags:Chinese, Buddhist, New, Moon, Japanese

Abstract
The paper offers an intimate glimpse of racism and its impact on the individuals who are adversely affected, by sharing the experiences of Maria Cheng, a 24-year-old second-generation Chinese, born and raised in California.

From the Paper
"With their distinctive physical features that distinguish them from other racial groups in American society, Chinese Americans have faced racism throughout the history of their existence in America. During late 19th century, laws were passed that barred Chinese immigration and forbade Chinese from testifying in federal courts against white men (Fung 37). Although Chinese Americans no longer face the same kind of prejudice and have made great strides in establishing themselves in American society, they still suffer from discrimination today."

Tags:discrimination, racism, china

Abstract
This paper examines how the political status of Hong Kong was transformed from that of a British Crown Colony to that of a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People?s Republic of China (PRC) when political control of Hong Kong passed to the PRC from the United Kingdom on July 1, 1997. It analyzes the economic crisis of enormous magnitude that began in east and southeast Asia in the late summer of that same year and evaluates if the transfer of political control over Hong Kong to the PRC was a causal factor in the development of the economic crisis that swept east and southeast Asian nations in the last half of 1997.

Outline
Introduction
Comparing Pre-Transfer to Post-Transfer Macroeconomic Performance by the Hong Kong Economy
Population
Gross Domestic Product
Industrial Production
Consumer Prices
Unemployment
Wages
Real Estate Performance
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Real estate prices plunged in Hong Kong once effects of the wider Asian economic crisis began to be felt in Hong Kong. During this period (which lasted approximately six months in late-1997 and early-1998), real estate prices fell approximately 50 percent. No recovery in real estate prices began to occur until 1999. During the first six months of 1999, real estate prices have recovered to the extent of increasing approximately 15 percent. Analysts in Hong Kong are divided over the issue of whether the recovery in real estate will continue. Many of these analysts are pessimistic because of the recent deterioration in political relations between the PRC and Taiwan ("Hong Kong Land Sale Above Market's Expectation," 1999)."

Tags:industry, real, estate, unemployment, wages

Abstract
This paper first relates that, for thousands of years, although the Chinese Empire set a standard of civilization and innovation that few others cultures have matched, there has always been a struggle between the politics of Empire and the cultural aspects of its people. The paper then examines the language, literature, philosophy, law, religions, inventions, science and ancient political history of China to underscore the diversity of its cultures and clans. The paper concludes that Chinese culture survived despite the Empire and its various rulers, who recognized the average Chinese only as a human tool to be used for their own needs.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Interaction of Various Cultures In China
Literature and Literature/Philosophy
The Law
Religion- Emperors as Divinities
Philosophers versus the Court
Daoist Alternatives
Anarchists
Qin, The 'Anti-Historian
The Failure of Reformers
The Tiers of Society
So Many Diverse Cultures and Clans in China
Inventions and Science
Is There an Antagonistic Position of Culture vs. Empire?

From the Paper
"Considered by many China historians, the name Mencius is second only to Confucius. He did something no philosopher in China had emphasized. He preferred a state of monarchy to the thought of democracy, or "power to the people." Of course, the culture of China in those days was one of reverence by the peasants to the nobility, and the payment of gifts by the nobility to the Emperor to remain nobility. More over, Mencius and his followers infuriated the Emperor because they were avowed pacifists."

Tags:feudalism language women confucius, civil service

Abstract
This paper examines Chinese exclusion/limited immigration in Canada before World War II, including the notion of 'yellow peril'. Recounting changes in policy and Chinese experience, the paper notes how the Chinese responded, earning a fine reputation as conditions gradually improved. This paper also notes the pride of the Canadian Chinese in sometimes humble ancestors who came to build the railway, or simply entered Canada with nothing.

From the Paper
"The paper explains Canadian reluctance concerning Chinese immigration and the formation of Chinese communities in Canada, in the light of ideas and policies once common in other parts of the British Empire and in the United States. Notions of `yellow peril' and Chinese criminality were important influences upon this exclusion, as derived from British Asia, Africa or the Caribbean, or California, more than within Canada itself. Much opposition had to do with simple ignorance and ideas of the Chinese that were incorrect."

Tags:canada, chinesepolicy, responses

Abstract
This paper provides a quick look at basic Chinese culture for a traveler or businessman. It explains that Chinese customs are rooted in thousands of years of tradition. Therefore, etiquette is socially ingrained and in many instances, immutable. The writer points out that a foreigner who stays in China for any length of time or who hopes to do business with China should be respectful and observant of Chinese manners.

From the Paper
"Chinese thinking styles have been found to be different from Western style of thinking. A study of Chinese corporate executives by Francesco Sofo and Ting Wang showed that the Chinese subjects showed a "high" style of thinking, characterized by analysis and critique: Chinese people will not immediately agree to an issue before thinking about it carefully and questioning all possibilities. Blind faith is not common. Similarly, Chinese executives enjoy implementing plans and creating rules, as long as their social position requires it. Because Chinese culture is hierarchical, it is important for people to be aware of and respectful of different roles and levels of power. Moreover, Chinese culture is less individualistic than American culture; personal progress is never placed above the progress of the organization. Chinese people generally frown upon open displays of anger or any other strong emotion and are indirect in their modes of communication. Directly insulting a person is one of the strongest taboos; "losing face" is an insult to a person's honor and integrity."

Tags:meal, etiquette, banquet, tradition