“Sukarno and Ho Chi Minh continued age-old traditions of resistance to foreign rule in their respective countries but were at the same time the products of Western colonialism.” Do you agree? Critically discuss by comparing the ideas and aims of the two men and locating them within the larger history of their country’s experience under colonial rule after c.1800. At a minimum, your essay should consider the following questions: What distinguished these figures from others in their own societies? Who and/or what inspired them? What were their principal aims, and what obstacles did they face in achieving them? (Hint: Your essay should consider the significance of factors other than Western colonialism in shaping Southeast Asian history during this period.) Your essay must use evidence and examples drawn from the lectures and the readings, including the primary sources or ‘Documents.’
2. Your essay should not simply list a series of facts but should present a coherent thesis or argument.
3. The first paragraph of your essay should provide a summary of your main argument or thesis. The main body of your essay should develop that argument or thesis.
4. Be sure to support your argument with evidence and examples from the lectures and the readings, including both the Secondary Sources and the Documents.
5. If you do not clearly demonstrate familiarity with the relevant materials from this course, your grade will suffer. In other words, do not rely on Google or other non-course sources in preparing your answers.