by DN

Created on: October 30, 2008

Once upon a time there was a land, high in the mountains, filled with peaceful Buddhist monks. They lived in perfect harmony, one with their fellow man and the wonderous nature around them. Lead by their glorious spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, they could do no wrong. There they remained for thousands of years, until, one horrible, fateful day, The Dragon came, destroying culture, killing innocent, conquering all.

FREE TIBET!.... ?

Isn't life simple in fairy tales? It's always so obvious to pick a side. Perhaps it's time to look a little closer. Ask some questions...

Q: Was Tibet independent before China came in the 1950's?

-Far from straightforward to answer. The offical records of China have claimed Tibet as part of their country for hundreds of years. At no point did they ever grant Tibet independence. However, the good old British also tried their hand at claiming Tibet as their own when they took India. China didn't really agree to that for some reason. But who cares, we're British. Of cause, then the British got bored of conquering the world and let India and Tibet go free. They allowed Tibet it's independence. Two days later China granted N.Ireland Independence, no, wait, they can't do that right... ?

Q: Why did China enter Tibet?

-China was at civil war. However, one thing both sides of China could agree on was Tibet belonged to them. Many surporting the old Chinese government had gone to Tibet. The newbies went in to find them. They did not rush in to conquer. They believed it was already theirs. The agreement signed by Tibet and China at the time focused mainly on two points. Tibet should help find those loyal to the old government and China should improve the general living standards of the people of Tibet, including new schools etc. Otherwise, it was agreed, Tibet could continue business as usual.

Q: So why kick out the Dalai Lama?

-Tibet struck first. The nobles planned an uprising, with substancial military aid and guidance from the good old guys in the USA. It failed. They ran to India. Interestingly, the Dalai Lama has always, in all his lives, had a real passion for running away if he felt in danger.

Q: But, if they had America's backing, they must be the good guys, right?

-That doesn't deserve an answer.

Q: Why won't China let Tibet preserve it's tradional way of life?

-It is very true that China does not want the Tibet of old to return. Heartless fiends. What do they object to? The peaceful prayers and meditation? Not really.

Before the new government

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