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Student Name Professor Name Course Date Cultural Differences: Perspectives from Native American Mythology, European Colonialism, and Hiroshima Bomb Survivors In this research paper, we shall explore as well as compare how different cultures and periods have viewed and experienced cultural differences. By analyzing "SkyWoman Falling" from Native American perspectives, "Berlin Conference: General Act of the Berlin Conference of West Africa. February 26, 1885" for Eurocentric colonial views, as well as "Atomic Bomb Survivors: Harrowing Accounts from Hiroshima Survivors" for firsthand experiences of atomic bomb survivors in Japan, the essay uncovers the multifaceted nature of cultural diversity throughout history. By humanizing the narratives as well as perspectives within these sources, we can deepen our understanding of the complexities and impacts of cultural differences across various societies and eras. "SkyWoman Falling" is a Native American creation story from the Iroquois tradition. The setting of this narrative is the historical context of the Iroquois Confederacy, a Native American Alliance in the northeast of North America. The creation story in "Skywoman Falling" is an illustration of the beliefs as well as values of the Iroquois people as well as their deeper connection to nature. This text reflects the theme of cultural diversity and differences through the journey of the sky woman as she descends from the sky ream onto the earth. During her interaction with various beings and landscapes, this story highlights the interconnectedness as

well as harmony between different organisms. Every encounter showcases the diversity of life and the importance of respecting and embracing cultural differences. For instance, as SkyWoman falls, animals gather to help her, symbolizing the mutual support and cooperation that transcends cultural boundaries (SkyWoman Falling, Iroquois tradition). Emotions and reactions expressed in the source highlight the reverence and wonder associated with the theme of cultural differences. The Iroquois people deeply appreciate the natural world and its diverse manifestations. They perceive cultural differences as integral to the fabric of existence, contributing to the richness and beauty of life. As stated in "SkyWoman Falling" (Iroquois tradition), "our stories say that all of the plants, sweetgrass was the very first to grow on earth" (SkyWoman Falling, Iroquois tradition). This shows the specific cultural tradition of the people. Meanwhile, the "Berlin Conference" takes place in the historical context of the late 19th century when European colonial powers were actively engaged in the scramble for Africa. The Berlin Conference, held from November 1884 to February 1885, was convened to regulate European colonization and establish guidelines for dividing African territories among the participating nations. It aimed to resolve potential conflicts and ensure the peaceful coexistence of colonial powers in Africa. Concerning the chosen theme of cultural differences between ethnic or racial groups, the primary source sheds light on the perspectives of European colonial powers on this matter. The conference proceedings reflect a Eurocentric perspective that disregarded and undermined the cultural differences and sovereignty of African ethnic and racial groups. The primary goal of the conference was to facilitate the partitioning of Africa, primarily for the benefit of the European powers involved, without due consideration for the cultural diversity and interests of the African people.

However, within the source, contrasting viewpoints regarding cultural differences emerge. Some European representatives acknowledged the existence of cultural diversity in Africa but regarded it as a justification for European intervention and control. These viewpoints were rooted in the notion of the "civilizing mission," which assumed that European colonial powers had a moral duty to "civilize" and assimilate the African populations, often dismissing or devaluing indigenous cultures and practices. The primary source, the General Act of the Berlin Conference, presents a complex interplay of perspectives regarding cultural differences. While the conference reinforced the dominance of European powers and the disregard for the cultural autonomy of African ethnic or racial groups, it also showcased contrasting views within the European powers themselves, revealing differing interpretations and motivations for colonizing Africa. Additionally, the theme of cultural diversity among ethnic and racial groups is deftly explored in the video "Atomic Bomb Survivors." This video explores tales from individuals that survived atomic bombing, thus extrapolating personal accounts of the 1945 bombing, offering a moving portrayal of the poignant impact of manufactured disasters on people from varied cultural backgrounds. The documentary explores the lasting effects of the Hiroshima bombings on August 6, 1945, and presents perspectives and stories from a wide range of survivors. Regardless of their ethnic or racial backgrounds, the atomic bomb affected everyone in Hiroshima, uniting them in a shared tragedy that surpassed cultural divides. By highlighting human suffering endured by individuals from various cultural backgrounds, the source emphasizes the profound impact of the atomic bomb (Smithsonian Channel, "Atomic Bomb Survivors: Harrowing Accounts from Hiroshima Survivors").

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