BEFORE YOU WATCH: Global China into the 21st Century

Use the "Three Close Reads" approach as you watch the video below.

Before you watch

Before you watch the video, it’s a good idea to open and skim the video transcript. And always read the questions below so you know what to look and listen for as you watch.

While you watch

According to Francesca Hodges, about what proportion of the world’s population is Chinese?
What does the data suggest has happened to China’s economy over the past century? What has been the impact on Chinese people?
According to Dr. Crystal Chang, why do the Chinese people generally support or allow the Communist Party to continue to govern, despite being authoritarian?
According to Professor Chang, how has China benefited from globalization, and how has that changed over time?
Does the Chinese government allow and encourage dissent? How does it discourage negative opinion?

After you watch

To what extent does this video the continuities and changes in the global economy from 1900 to present?
Consider Dr. Chang’s evaluation of both freedoms and economic change in China. Do you think it is worth giving up some freedoms, and allowing some oppression, if most people are benefiting economically? Compare these choices to the ones made in your own country.

Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to watch. Remember to return to these questions once you’ve finished watching.

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