247. Dr. Wang's Works Should be Taught in Both US and Chinese History Courses

2012 is coming. It is the perfect time to show my readers Dr. Dave Wang's achievements in his study of the influence of traditional Chinese civilization on the early United States. Many scholars, such as Jeffrey Bingham Mead, have expressed their support to his study.

On December 25, 2011, Mr. Mead, a well-known historian and the founder and president of the History Education Hawaii, told his readers and friends over the world:

"Re-reading Dave Wang's article 'The US Founders and China: The Origins of Chinese Cultural Influence on the United States.' From the Fall 2011 edition of Education About Asia. This should be taught in our American and Chinese history courses." This is really great endorsement to Dr. Wang's hard work.

246. Historical Story or Historical Tradition?

To borrow from Chinese culture is not a historical story, but a historical tradition started by the founders of the United States. Former President Bill Clinton has tirelessly and earnestly exhorted Americans that “success in the twenty-first century world requires Americans to be curious enough to learn from other countries.”

Clinton’s admonition is of particular significance now that the United States is once again facing tremendous, unprecedented challenges both domestically and abroad. It has been a great tradition of the United States to learn from other countries. I want to show readers how political and military leaders, including the founding fathers of the United States, have used Chinese wisdoms to overcome obstacles on their roads to victories.

In fact, some eminent leaders of the North American colonies paid attention to Chinese culture long before this country was founded. Traditional Chinese civilization has served as a priceless treasure from which the American leaders constantly draw wisdom. Numerous American political leaders, from the US founders to contemporary presidents, have sought enlightenment from traditional Chinese culture.

245. Benjamin Rush and China

Benjamin Rush (1745-1813) was among the first group of colonists who wanted to build a porcelain factory in North America. For Dr. Rush, colonies’ production of porcelain ware was one of the means to overcome the colonies’ dependence on Great Britain for goods and trade. The endeavor of building such a factory was far beyond the porcelain only. It demonstrated the colonists’ determination to be independent from their motherland.

"Go on in encouraging American manufactures. I have many schemes in view with regard to these things. I have made those mechanical arts which are connected with chemistry the particular objects of my study and not without hopes of seeing a china manufactory established in Philadelphia in the course of a few years. Yes, we will be revenged by the mother country. For my part, I am resolved to devote my head, my heart, and my pen entirely to the service of America, and promise myself much assistance from you in everything of this kind that I shall attempt through life."
More information on Chinese cultural influence on the founding fathers is available through reading this article.