ATHENS GREECE - A CITY IN EUROPE
Culture, Traditions, and People
It is very hard to find an unfriendly person in China or Greece. Almost every person that one might walk up to is able to hold a conversation well despite the language barrier. Though the people in different Greek towns spoke the same language and had similar religious beliefs, they were often at war with each other. The wars in ancient Greece were mainly over religion or politics. The Greek people are recognized for their friendliness and kindness to strangers. Often times the locals of Greece (mainly in Athens) will invite complete strangers for feasts. These locals find it very rude if the stranger tries to pay for the feast. Greek culture has not changed in centuries.
Governance and Power
Greece government and politics takes place in a large parliamentary representative democratic republic. The Prime Minister is the Head of the Government. The President is elected by the Parliament and is the Head of the State. The President is responsible for some executive and legislative functions and some ceremonial duties. The Prime Minister and the cabinet play a vital role in Grecian politics. Politics has always played important role in the development of Greece.
|
Geography and Landmarks
Athens has many beautiful geographic features such as the Acropolis and many mountains. Aigaleo is the mountain to the west, Parnes to the north, Pentelikon to the northeast, and Hymettus to the east. The city of Athens contains isolated limestone hills. The city itself runs along the Ilissus River which is dry for the majority of the year. Athens climate is hot, dry summers and mild winters.
|
Resources for Information on Athens Greece:
- http://www.greeka.com/greece-culture.htm
- http://www.mapsofworld.com/greece/government-and-politics/
BEIJING CHINA - A CITY IN ASIA
Culture, Traditions, and People
The Chinese people find families to be one of the most important factors in life. Another important factor in the Chinese culture is etiquette. For example, greetings are formal and the oldest person is always greeted first; and chopsticks should be returned to the chopstick rest after every few bites and when you drink or stop to speak. Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism are the three major religions in China. Also, a good education has always been highly valued in China, as the people believe that education ensures not only the future and development of the individual but also the family and the country as a whole.
Governance and Power
The people’s congress system is China’s fundamental political system. The President of the People’s Republic of China is the head of state for China. The people’s congresses have four main functions and powers: legislation, supervision, appointment and removal of officials, and making decisions on major issues. These functions are a major reflection of the way the Chinese people exercise their power as masters of the state through the people’s congress system.
|
Geography and Landmarks
The geographic features of China include the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square. Beijing is one of the most developed and industrial areas of China and it was one of the first post-industrial cities to emerge in China. Beijing is located at the tip of the North China Plain and it is surrounded by mountains to the north, northwest, and west. The climate of Beijing is considered humid with hot, humid summers and very cold, dry winters.
|
RESOURCES FOR INFORMATION ON BEIJING, CHINA
- http://www.mapsofworld.com/greece/government-and-politics/
- http://www.factmonster.com/ce6/world/A0857294.html
- http://www.factmonster.com/ce6/world/A0857292.html