Some
of the world’s first great civilizations sprang up in Asia from 3500 BC
onwards. Their riches attracted trade and conquering armies. Over the centuries
peoples such as the Mongols and the Turks built up and then lost vast empires.
From the 1800’s much of Asia was colonized by European countries. These new
rulers took away wealth, but did not help the colonies develop their
industries.
Great
social changes have taken place in Asia during this century. Many colonies
freed themselves from their European rulers, creating independent nation...
