Problem

For each essay, you will write a research-based response of at least 250 words that focuses on the specific prompt for that essay. Each essay must include at least 1 scholarly reference in addition to the course textbooks and the Bible and must be in current Turabian format. You must also use pertinent examples from both before and after the 19th century to support your response.

Essay 1

This course argues that Korea has been essentially a unified nation-state throughout its history and that Korea's divisions, past and present, are largely the result of Korea's location between two great neighboring powers over time.

Do you agree with the above statement? If so, describe the similarities and differences in Kim Il Sung's and Syngman Rhee's attempts to unite their peoples toward the same essential goal: creating a unified, genuinely Korean society. Is today's division then merely a reflection of great power politics and meddling by outside forces?

If you disagree with the above statement, and you believe that the Korean peninsula has historically tended towards divisions as a result of two different cultures, what are the major societal and worldview differences you see that emerged in the development of modern Korea today since World War II?