Introduction to Tibet
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One of the main goals of this web site is to provide an in-depth introduction to various aspects of Tibet. In learning more about Tibet, it becomes apparent that Tibet was a sovereign nation, with its own language, culture, and customs, distinct from its neighbors. In this section of Xizang Zhiye, we will explore various aspects of Tibet, including Tibet's amazing geography, which is one of the main factors which has allowed Tibet to develop largely independently from its neighbors. Tibet also has a rich and beautiful culture with thousands of years of history.
The customs and culture of the Tibetan people are
recognized as an important example of one of the last remaining
authentic cultures in the world. We will also consider Tibet's
impressive historical legacy which provides the necessary context for
any modern considerations of Tibet.
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This section of Xizang Zhiye also provides
information concerning the importance of religion to the Tibetan culture
and people. And finally, in this section we will meet and learn about
various individuals who have had an important influence on Tibet,
including the Dalai Lama, the Karmapa and the Panchen Lama.
An Introduction to the Question of Tibet
Why is there an outcry about Tibet? Why is a nation larger than Western Europe held captive and tortured by a foreign power, while the world's leaders stand by or deny responsibility for doing business with the oppressor? Why is Tibet's situation important right now?
the pages below tell how Tibet has come to the most perilous moment in its 3,000 year existence. It is a common theme of history; many ancient and peaceful indigenous civilizations have been assaulted by military powers in search of land and booty. Tibet, an independent nation until the Chinese invasion, is now faced with extinction. But it is not yet too late.
It would be very difficult to oust the Chinese by armed force, and it would go against the Tibetan Buddhist belief in non-violence. Instead, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people have used diplomacy and non-violent activism in the hopes that the People's Republic of China will be condemned and pressured to withdraw its occupation forces from Tibet.
It is our belief that anyone who hears of what has happened in Tibet will support its cause. But the Tibetans must be heard. Please read on to find out why Tibet needs and deserves your support. If you are moved to become actively involved, contact a Tibet Support Group near you.
In a world where terrorism gets so much attention, it is important to
support those who are willing to brave the path of peace.
A Short History of Tibet
1949: Invasion Tibet was once one of the world's most remote and peaceful civilizations. Then, in 1949, Chinese troops invaded and quickly defeated Tibet's small army. Most countries considered the invasion and occupation unjust. They voted in the United Nations for Tibet's right to self-determination. However, China's forces have never left. 1959: Destruction In March of 1959, a mass Tibetan uprising against the Chinese was brutally crushed. The Dalai Lama—spiritual and political leader of Tibet—and 80,000 Tibetans fled to India and Nepal where they remain as refugees. In the following years and during the Cultural Revolution (1966 to 1976) thousands of monasteries and temples were plundered and destroyed. Tens of thousands of Tibetans were sent to labor camps and never seen again. After Mao's death, wholesale destruction came to an end, however, China still denies Tibetans their basic political, cultural and economic rights while continuing to exploit Tibet's fragile environmental resources. 1960–1990: Resistance and Reconstruction: In 1987, following the Dalai Lama's presentation of a Five-Point Peace Plan to the U.S. Congress, Tibetans began to demonstrate openly against the Chinese occupation. These actions have brought numerous crackdowns and a period of brutal martial law which lasted 13 months. They also increased international awareness about the real situation in Tibet. In 1989, the Dalai Lama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his unswerving commitment to non-violence. Meanwhile, the refugee community in India has attempted to reconstruct and preserve the many ways of Tibetan culture which had suffered immeasurably in Tibet. Since 1960, the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, initially led by the Dalai Lama and now a democratically elected body, has fostered the growth of an extensive number of cultural and economic institutions in an effort to sustain their unique traditions while Tibet remains occupied by Chinese forces. Today and Tomorrow: Hope for a free Tibet has been renewed by people from around the world who have spoken out for Tibetan freedom to their governments, fellow citizens and the Chinese. The Dalai Lama declared 1991 as the "International Year of Tibet" to celebrate the country's unique history and culture. As the world continues on it's current path of change, Tibetans believe that it will soon be there turn as well. |
