Petanque

Where in the World? Quebec, Canada

                Petanque is a game that comes from Quebec. The goal is to throw hollow metal balls as close as you can to wooden ball called a cochonnet or bouchon. It can be played on gravel, sand, grass, or concrete. It is similar to the game bocce. It originated in 1907 in Southern France. In France, 17 million people play it most during summer months. 20,000 people in Quebec play it as well. It has been shown to now come to the United States recently. This game can be traced back all the way to the Ancient Greeks who used to play a similar version. Since 1953, there are world championships for this game and 52 teams from 50 countries attended in 2007 in Thailand. This game is played by 2, 4, or 6 people organized onto two teams.

For more information on the history, rules, and stratagy as well as videos and picture on this sport, visit http://www.petanque.org/around_the_world/french_games.shtml (:

Blue Jeans

Where in the World? America

One example of popular culture is Blue Jeans. These are durable pants made from a blue tinted cotton fabric. They were first created for people who were working in the 1894 California Gold Rush. They used to only be worn by workers but in the 20th century. In the 1950's people thought that the young men wearing these were rebels. They were being worn all over the world, but still remained to be an American invention. The fabric denim was originally from a town in France named de Nîmes (which was shortened to denim), and died dark blue so that workers pants would not show any dirt. They were invented by Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss. In 2005, Americans spent more than $15 million dollars on blue jeans! I bet you never really thought about where the items in your closet originated.

Pop Culture vs. Folk Culture

First Off, Happy St. Nick Day! (see one of my previous posts)

Many may think of culture just as one general term, but in fact there are two types that are often confused. These are popular culture and folk culture. Popular culture is constantly changing and specific to a certain place and time. It is determined by the media, film, newspapers and is seen globally. Popular culture is seen all around us, everyday. Some say that it is the contemporary culture that is practiced by "ordinary people. Examples would be things such as Bugs Bunny, McDonalds, Brittany Spears. It is defined by objects, images, books, and music. Folk Culture on the other hand, refers to the lifestyle of a culture. It is often handed down through word of mouth and through generations. If folk culture is moved to a new place, its origin is still very apparent. Examples that were used in previous posts of mine were the Native American Tipis, Hawaiian Hula, or Shaker furniture.

What are some examples of folk culture or pop culture that you can now put into these categories?

Shaker Culture

 Where in the world? The United States

           There is a group called the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, or better known as the Shakers or Shaker Quakers. They came from England in 1774. They are a religious sect that was led by Ann Lee. They rejected sexual relations (relying on adoption) and believed in Social equality among all their followers. There are few left and their numbers continue to diminish. Their culture had a big impact on music and furniture. Their furniture is durable and simple, yet elegant. To View some of this furniture visit http://www.shaker.net/ Shaker music is very important spiritually and often follows by dance. Some of their music comes from syllables and words from unknown languages. Most of the early music is describes as being a single melodic line that doesn’t not have any harmonization. To view one of the first Shaker songs written by Elder Brackett in 1848.

Hula

Where in the world? Hawaii

  Where in the world? Hawaii The Hula is a Hawaiian dance that is presented along with a song or chant called a mele. It was developed by the Polynesians who originally occupied the Hawaiian Islands. This has become a sacred ritual because the Hawaiians think that it was first performed by a god or goddess but has recently also became a form of entertainment. Some think that is was performed only be men, but history showed that both genders have performed this dance. Every Hula movement and expression has a significant meaning to the Hawaiians.  http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/hacul/hula.htm says, "Traditionally it was not the dancer's hands but the words that counted the most. Today, because so few understand the language of the chants, increasing emphasis has been placed on movements and gestures." The dancers wear a lei for their head as well as around their neck, a skirt named the pau, and anklets named kupea that are made out of a whale bone or dog teeth.

Watch this interesting 2 minute video on Hula from National Geographic:
http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/places/culture-places/arts-and-entertainment/us_hula.html

Tipi (Teepee)

Tipis are a type of tent that is used by Native American of the Great Plains, as well as some other groups. They are traditionally made from substances such as animal skins and birch bark, but are now made of canvas. They are strong, and provide Native Americans warmth and a shelter for the winter; it keeps them dry when it is raining, and cool in the summer months. Unlike many structures, they could be quickly packed if the tribe wanted to move to a new location.  The Tipis are made with a smoke flap as well as many poles to hold up the structure. Ropes and poles are used to construct the Tipi and hold it in place. Most would not be decorated/painted unless there was a tribal battle or ceremonies going on. Some of the tips of the poles would be painted in accordance to the tribal member’s personal experiences such as a war they attended or hunting. They are large enough for a small fire to be placed in the center of the Tipi. This makes it easy for the people to cook their food, or get needed heat. The smoke flaps, mentioned above, are there to let the smoke from the fire exit the tent. (Think of our modern chimneys, which let smoke exit our houses in the northern winter months)

Stupas

Where in the world? Mainly in India, but also in various places of the world.

A Stupa is used as a place of worship for Buddhists. The latest Buddhist religious monument is the Stupa and was created originally from a mound of clay or mud to cover relics of the Buddha. This remains were later cremated and the ashes were divided up and buried under the 8 Stupas. Not much is known about early stupas because it is not possible to see the ten original ones. Little is known about these early stupas, particularly since it has not been possible to identify the original ten monuments.However, there are a variety of stupas around the world. The stupa shape represents the Buddha where he is meant to look like he is crowned and sitting in meditation on a lion throne. According to Wikipedia, His crown is the top of the spire; his head is the square at the spire's base; his body is the vase shape; his legs are the four steps of the lower terrace; and the base is his throne. They are also meant to commemorate 8 great deeds from his life as listed below.

1. Birth: Built at Lumbini
2. Enlightenment: Built in the kingdom of Magadha, on the banks of the river Nairanjana
3. Turning of the Wheel, the first teaching: Built at Sarnath (Varanasi)
4. Miracles: Built at Sravasti
5. Descent from Tushita: Built at Samkashya after Buddha returned from Tushita heaven, where he'd gone to give teachings to his mother
6. Reconciliation: Built at Rajagriha, after Buddha reconciled the disagreements of the monks
7. Complete Victory: Built at Vaishali, where Buddha meditated extensively
8. Parinirvana: Built at Kushinagara where Buddha entered mahaparinirvana

What is Culture?

This blog posting is a little different then what I normally do. I was sitting in AP human geography when one of my classmates asked, "What ex actually is culture?" I thought to myself, maybe some other people don't exactly know what it is either. Culture has many different meanings. One refers to an appreciation of good literature, music, art and food. Culture is also a full range of learned human behaviors. According to dictionary.com these are the various definitions. My blog focuses on the 5th meaning.

1.the quality in a person or society that arises from a concern for what is regarded as excellent in arts, letters,manners, scholarly pursuits, etc.

2. that which is excellent in the arts, manners, etc.

3. a particular form or stage of civilization, as that of a certain nation or period: Greek culture.

4. development or improvement of the mind by education or training.

5. the behaviors and beliefs characteristic of a particular social, ethnic, or age group

How are cultures similar and different? 
All cultures have resulted from basic needs shared by all. Every culture has certain things such as a method for getting food and shelter, a way to protect themselves. All cultures also have relationships and religions. Arts and literature is another thing important to culture. Scientific knowledge is also in every culture, as well as knowledge of plants. The details of ones world differ between culture.


http://anthro.palomar.edu/culture/culture_1.htm is a great website explaining culture and talking about the different types as well.

The Hajj

Where in the world? Mecca, Saudi Arabia
        In the Muslim religion, there are 5 pillars of Islam that one must follow during their lifetime as part of their religion. One of these pillars is to go to Mecca once during their life time, this journey is called a Hajj. The number of Americans going on this journey is increasing from year to year. You are only excused from this if their is a health problem, illness, or money problem that hinders you from going. This Hajj contains several ceremonies that symbolize the concepts essential to the Islamic faith and to the trials of prophet Abraham and his family. This hajj is suppose to free all sins and enables all Muslims to come together to worship their god together. The Hajj begins on the 8th day of the 12th month on the Muslim lunar calendar, also known as Dhul-Hijjah. First, the people partaking in this go to Mina and sleep there overnight. They then spend the 9th day with an empty plain, and spend the say with supplication and devotion. At night, they move to Muzdalifa, were they camp and pray. On the 10th day, they return to Mina and throw 7 pebbles at the pillar. This symbolized Satan's temptation of Abraham. Next, they sacrifice a sheep because this is what God did in order to save Abraham son. The mead is given to poor, friends, and family. They return to mecca and complete their journey by cutting their hair.

http://www.islam.com/hajj/hajj.htm

Moroccan Tea

Where in the world? Morocco

Morocco is known for their tea, expecially mint and green tea.This tradition has also spread through parts of North Africa and Spain. Morocco is one of the biggest tea imports in the world and it is concidered an art form in their culture. It is usually prepaired by the male head of the family and served to guests. It is concidered impolite in their culture to refuse. It is believed to have started in the 18th century, and begain spreading rapidly in the mid 19th century. This is the time when trade with Europe and Maghreb began. It was somtimes used as a gift given by European envoys in order to release prisoners from Europe. China is their main provider of tea. An example of a traditional tea recipy is shown below.

Ingredients

• 10 fresh mint sprigs, plus 4 for garnish
• 3 teaspoons green tea
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 4 cups water

Directions

Boil water. Pour a small amount in teapot and swish around to warm the pot. Combine the mint and green tea and sugar in the teapot, then fill it with the rest of the hot water. Let tea brew, stirring the leaves once or twice, for 3 minutes. Pour tea through a tea strainer into glass teacups to serve. Garnish with remianing 4 sprigs of mint

Bastille Day

Where in the world? France

Bastille Day is a French national holiday celebrated on July 14th of every year. It started in 1790 because of the first anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison. This prison was mainly used by the king and queen to lock up people who did not agree with them. It is seen as a holiday of a modern republic and the end of a monarchy. For the lower class, the Bastille was a symbol of hypocrisy and corruption of the wealthy noble class and clergy. This event was important to them because it marked their class becoming popular into the French Revolution.  On this day fireworks are shown at the Efiile tower in the morning, an army parade on  Champs Elysées (a street) will be showed in the morning as well.

Matryoshka Doll

Where in the World? Russia

There is a type off doll that most little girls and family know about and may own, although many do not know the name for this type of doll or the story behind it. These Doll's are called the Matryoshka (coming from the Russian word for Grandmother) Doll or otherwise known as the nesting doll. This is a set of dolls, each smaller in size then the next. They all fit inside each other as shown on the picture to the right. They are usually made of wood, and come in sets of 5. Most have intricate designs that are representative of Russian culture. Usually the largest doll is a woman, and the smallest is a baby however they may range in gender and design. They often follow a specific theme or traditional Russian dress. The Martyoshka dolls first came about in the 1890's. They were first carved by Vasily Zvyozdochkin and designed by Sergey Malyutin.

For more information and history click HERE.

Halloween part 2

Where in the world? Ireland

It is believed that Halloween was started in Ireland. They celebrate it much like we do here in the United States. They have bonfires and children trick or treat (or sometimes called "help the Halloween party") for candy around their neighborhood at night. Then most people attend parties with neighbors or other friends. At these parties, games are played and a scavenger hunt is sometimes arranged for children. Barnbrak is a typical food around this holiday, it is a fruitcake. A treat is hidden inside the cake and brings fortune to whoever finds it. The tradition meal consists of a Boiled Potato, Curly Kale (cabbage) and a raw onion. On this night kids may also play tricks on their neighbors such as knock-a-dolly which is similar to ding dong ditch. Although some of these traditions such as trick or treating and carving pumpkins are the same, they also have a variety of different traditions unique to them.

For More Irish Halloween traditions click HERE

Turban/pagri/dastaar

Where in the world? India

       Although most people know this head piece as a Turban, it is also called a Pagri, or Dastaar in India. When you think of a Turban most people associate it with Indian Culture, but actually only 10% of men in India wear a Turban regularly. This religious head piece is made of a fine piece of muslin (cotton). This cotton is very light weight, fits the shape of your head when raped, and soft making it very comfortable. This is washed weakly and kept very clean. The pieces of fabric are 5 meters long, and one meter wide! Various colors and styles can be chosen from, as shown in pictures below. Many say that this is worn by people of high class, but the main reason is it worn is to show their sovereignty, dedication, self-respect, courage and piety. It is also to show love and respect for the founder of the Khalsa Guru Gobind Singh. It is closely tied to the religion of Sikhism, where wearing a Turban is mandatory for their religion although many other religions may incorporate it into their lives as well.

"The turban is our Guru's gift to us. It is how we crown ourselves as the Singhs and Kaurs who sit on the throne of commitment to our own higher consciousness. For men and women alike, this projective identity conveys royalty, grace, and uniqueness. It is a signal to others that we live in the image of Infinity and are dedicated to serving all. The turban doesn't represent anything except complete commitment. When you choose to stand out by tying your turban, you stand fearlessly as one single person standing out from six billion people. It is a most outstanding act." quoted from Sikhnet.

Halloween part 1 (Mexico)

                                                                            Where in the World? Mexico

I was talking with my friend today about the upcoming Halloween holiday and I started wondering about how other country's celebrate this holiday. Mexico's Halloween leads up to the Day of the Dead. In Mexico people have picnics on family members graves as a day of remembrance on Halloween. It is a day of celebration and happiness for many. They bake bread, and make candy in Halloween shapes such as a skull or skeleton. Their version of trick or treating is kids running around the streets with lanterns asking for coins. To guide the souls of the dead home they light up their homes with lanterns or bonfires. This tradition goes along with some other holidays remembering the dead, including  Dia de los Muertos, and Fiesta de las Santas Animas. 

Chinese Influence in Canada

Where in the world? Vancouver

            Many people do not realize the big influence of Chinese culture in Vancouver, Canada. People even used to call this area Hongcouver. This is due to the fact that there was a major migration wave in 1997. This migration wave brought wealth and prosperity to the city. The chinese came to this area after the British retook over in their towns, they came to Vancouver as a safe place to stay. These immigrants were wealthy, educated, and spoke english well. This made Vancouver change for the better since these asians wanted the best education for their kids, wanted to live in the best neighborhoods, and therefore made the city more global in the process. Many of the citizens of Vancouver were outraged by all of this. Their neighborhoods were getting distroyed to build bigger home with a more asian influence in them. Also, the best schools were getting more crowded. These controversys have been settled through the years. Has anyone ever traveled there and witnessed the chinese influence on their culture?

Want to learn more?

St. Nick

Where in the world? Belgium

         Every year on December 6th, my family celebrates a holiday that many people don't know about. We used to live in Belgium, when I was young, where this holiday is celebrated. On the night of December 5th, children leave their shoes near the door. St. Nick (similar to Santa) comes down the chimney and leave chocolates and small gifts. Unless you are bad that year, then he leaves coal or twigs. Americans took this idea in the form of a Christmas Stocking. Many refer to St. Nick as the "Real Santa." Many can visit him in malls, where children greet him and receive a small gift. He also visits schools or clubs to ask if you have been nice during the year. Many children in America leave milk and cookies for Santa, but for this holiday, children leave something for the saints horse and often a glass of wine for the saint. Does anyone else celebrate this holiday or another that many are not aware about?

To see how other countries celebrate this holiday visit : http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=76

Burning of the Ribbons

                                                                                   Where in the world? Portugal 

Queima das Fitas is Portugal for "Burning of the Ribbons." This is a traditional festival celebrated by students. Originated from the University of Coimbra, the oldest university in Portugal, but now celebrated in many universities across the country. This takes place after graduation, in may, and each course has its own ribbon. It lasts for 8 days, one for each course. (Letters, Law, Medicine, Sciences & Technology, Pharmacy, Economics, Psychology & Education Sciences and Sports Sciences & Physical Education) This turns Coimbra into a lively city, with concerts and performances as well as a parade by the students. The parade is the thing everyone looks forward to, and spectators look forward to watching it. It is named after the fact that everyone has a narrow ribbon, which they all burn in the Old Square in the University. After this, they replace this one by a larger one they keep until they graduate.

Foot Binding

Where in the world? China

     This ancient tradition started in the 10 century, until 1911 when it was banned by the Chinese republic. Now if this was performed the mothers would get charged with child abuse. This was practiced by young women and girls as young as the age of five. Binding of the foot resulted in life long disabilities for many of the women who partook in this tradition. Some feet were even broken or fractured in order to get the desired result of a smaller foot. There are many different reasons why people think that this tradition was practiced. They thought it was fashionable and a distinction to have bound feet to the point where some were even "nonfunctional feet." The smaller the women’s foot, the more wealthy they seemed. During the first year of this process, girls would have 4 of their toes broken and knit together making sure their feet looked smaller. They would have to walk on their heels so they would not have pain. Another different opinion on why these girls had bound feet was that their husbands wanted to keep them from having any life outside the home. Their bound feet kept them from being mobile. Some women were even killed or sent away if they did not have their feet bound because it showed that they were not capable of marriage. Various opinions have been stated as to why they did this, some say fashion, others say it was for their husbands. Either way, they suffered tremendous pain and it is sad to see pictures and videos of it.

Geisha

Where in the world? Japan 

       A Geisha is a Japanese women who entertain and preform classical dance and music. They preform these Japanese arts at various banquets. Girls who want to become a geisha go through vigorous apprenticeship. During this time they learn the traditions such as playing instruments, singing, dancing, and social skills. Usually, Geisha's came from poor families and were brought in to be trained and raised. But today, it is a choice that can be made by girls in Japan. Geisha's are dressed in a traditional Kimono and paint their faces to be very pale. If you are visiting, you will be able to find these in places such as Gion, Pontocho, or Kanazawa. These are all located in Higashi's Geisha District. They can still be found today, although they are becoming less common. But they were even more popular in the 18 and 19 century's. This tradition evolved from a tradition similar to court jesters. At first, they were all male, but now they are mostly female and male Geisha's are very rare. One common misunderstanding about Geisha's are that some say they are prostitutes because some entertain men behind closeddoors. They are not however, although some might do so if they wish, it is not part of their profession.

Do you have any traditions or cultures that you would like to know more about? Comment it below. (:

Cinco de Mayo

Where in the World: Mexico

Cinco de Mayo is a very important holiday for the Puebla culture. Many people have heard of this holiday but do not know exactly what it is. It literally means "Fifth of May" in Spanish. In 1862, on May 5th, the Mexican army had a victory over France. This victory was at the Battle of Puebla and was unlikely. This celebration is mainly celebrated in Puebla, and the United States as well as some other country's. It is celebrated with food, music, and dancing. Mexicans do not find this a significant event in their history worth celebrating. This holiday is often confused with Mexico's most important holiday, their Independence Day, but they are very different. This battle was with 4,000 Mexicans led by General Ignacio Zaragoza fighting against 8,000 French led by Napoleon III that had not been defeated for 50 years. Also, it is important to us because since this battle no European army has invaded the United States.




Watch this Education Video on the real significance of Cinco de Mayo. (:

Self Mummification

Where in the world? North Japan
Have you ever heard of a Sokushinbutsu? I certainly hadn't until I read an interesting article. They are Buddhist monks or priests who had caused their own deaths by being mummified. Yes, this does mean they mummified themselves while they were still alive. This practice took place in Northern Japan, and between 16-24 such occurrences have been discovered.This was practiced in the past around 1000 years ago. (Although a recent example of this was found in Tokyo in 2010!) To start this process the monk, for three straight years, would eat only nuts and seeds, while vigorously working out. This helped them loose excess body fat completely. Then for another three years they only ate bark and roots, as well as drinking tea that was poisonous. This caused vomiting and loss of bodily fluids. It also killed any maggots that might cause the body to decay after death. This was very important to them. Then the monk would lock himself in a tomb made of stone. He would have to stay in a lotus position due to the fact that the tomb was very small. He did have an air tube and bell to connect with the outside world to communicate. He would ring the bell if he was still alive, and if he wasn't someone would remove the air tube and seal the tomb. This process might take someone 10 years to complete. This may seem weird to us, but it seemed very normal to them.

If you would like, visit this website http://www.buzzfeed.com/melismashable/the-self-mummified-monks-of-japan to see various pictures of self mummified monks.

El Salvador traditional dance

Where in the world? El Salvador.

I picked El Salvador as my next location because I have recently learned that this is where my boyfriends mom grew up. His grandmother still lives there and I wanted to learn more about their culture. I was very happy when I found that dance is very important in their culture, because I am a dancer and very interested in the topic. They have many dances, including The Dance of the Chapetones. This waltz is from the town of Panchimalco. This involves 12 men in tuxedos and one women dressed as the "queen." This dance imitates manners of the Spaniards and makes fun of them. One of the oldest dances is the Dance of the Tiger, from the town of Izalco. This dance represents a tiger hunt, one person dressed up as a tiger, covered with its skins and a mask. Eight of the other dancers dress to be hunters pretend to hunt down the tiger through dance. These dances are very interesting because they tell a story.

 Click HERE for a full list of traditional dances from El Salvador.

Do you have any ideas on a topic you'd like to know more about. Comment are welcome below (:

Spain Bullfigting

Where in the world? Spain

For many, bull fighting comes to mind when they think of Spain traditions. Although bull fighting can be found in other places such as Portugal. Bull fighting can be traced back to 711 A.D! That is when the first fight took place to celebrate the crowning of King Alfonzo VIII. Before 1724, this sport originated on horses for the aristocrats, the King felt it was a bad example for the public and therefore banned the practice. They switched to bulls because they were easier to afford, horses were too expensive for them. Bulls are released into an arena. Then a matador (the top bullfighters) lets his assistant wave a brightly colored cloth to make the bull run. If he likes the bulls mood he takes over and does it himself. If the matador shows its authority, the bull may be killed to end the fight. Today, bullfighting is a big business but is not starting to be banned in some places. It is a show, and supposedly shows the matadors courage. The matador is rewarded with trophies and courage.

Want to learn more? Check out these interesting articles and watch this video on a bullfighting school.
http://www.dailytargum.com/opinions/bullfighting-culturally-significant-1.2322804
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iSVrpSJ2dn6EceKv7tp14FdzzZdwD9HKJEL81

Burma Neck Rings

 

Where in the world: Burma

       The women that wear brass neck coils are called Kayan Lahwi. These rings, as shown on the left, are often worn beginning at the age of 6. Each coil, as the child gets older, is replaced with a longer coil. These coils then get heavier and therefore push the collar bones down and compress the rib cage. Their neck does not actually get longer, it just appears that way. If you ask these women why they do it, they will say that it is a culture trait that makes you seem more beautiful. Although, anthropologists have many theories as to why they may have started this tradition. Maybe these rings helped make them look less attractive to other tribes and then therefore protect them from slavery. They also may have been used to protect tiger bites, or to symbolize the important figure a dragon. These rings are removable, but often done so other then for cleaning or putting more neck coils on. This is because their neck is usually very weak or bruised from wearing the neck coils.

Ethiopian Wedding Practices

Where in the world? : Ethiopia

            International weddings might seem strange to us, but normal to people who live in that area. Many brides marry at a young age, but their groom must be at least 30 for her to be eligible to marry him. Their marriages are arranged, the grooms parents are responsible for finding their son a bride. Once they have investigated the bride, and made sure she is not related to their son, they contact the brides parents to ask if there can be a marriage between their children. The two are considered engaged if their parents work out an agreement. There is much dancing and celebrating at the wedding, in addition to the groom getting cattle and money from the brides parents. The groom must then stay at the brides family's house for their "honeymoon". In that time he must take the brides virginity. Wedding traditions that seem normal to us, vary around the world.