Konbaung kings extended Restored Toungoo's administrative reforms, and achieved unprecedented levels of internal control and external expansion. For the first time in history, the Burmese language and culture came to predominate the entire Irrawaddy valley. The evolution and growth of Burmese literature and theatre continued, aided by an extremely high adult male literacy rate for the era (half of all males and 5% of females). Nonetheless, the extent and pace of reforms were uneven and ultimately proved insufficient to stem the advance of British colonialism.

What language eventually came to power in the Irrawaddy valley ?

Burmese language

What was the literacy rate for the Burmese people during the big period of artistic growth?

half of all males and 5% of females

Did changes move along at a uniform pace for the Burmese people?

pace of reforms were uneven and ultimately proved insufficient

What country was Burma a colony of ?

British

What are the kings of the Konbaung monarchy famed for in their rule?

Konbaung kings extended Restored Toungoo's administrative reforms, and achieved unprecedented levels of internal control and external expansion


Burmese resentment was strong and was vented in violent riots that paralysed Yangon (Rangoon) on occasion all the way until the 1930s. Some of the discontent was caused by a disrespect for Burmese culture and traditions such as the British refusal to remove shoes when they entered pagodas. Buddhist monks became the vanguards of the independence movement. U Wisara, an activist monk, died in prison after a 166-day hunger strike to protest against a rule that forbade him from wearing his Buddhist robes while imprisoned.

have the Burmese people ever shown any reservations about the ruling government bodies?

Burmese resentment was strong and was vented in violent riots that paralysed Yangon (Rangoon) on occasion all the way until the 1930s.

What were some of problems experienced with the colonialism of Burma by the British?

Some of the discontent was caused by a disrespect for Burmese culture and traditions

How long was U Wisara on a strike were he refused subsistence ?

166-day hunger strike

Was U Wisara able to survive  the protest?

died in prison after a 166-day hunger strike

Why was U Wisara involved in a resistance movement of such extremes ?

to protest against a rule that forbade him from wearing his Buddhist robes while imprisoned.


A major battleground, Burma was devastated during World War II. By March 1942, within months after they entered the war, Japanese troops had advanced on Rangoon and the British administration had collapsed. A Burmese Executive Administration headed by Ba Maw was established by the Japanese in August 1942. Wingate's British Chindits were formed into long-range penetration groups trained to operate deep behind Japanese lines. A similar American unit, Merrill's Marauders, followed the Chindits into the Burmese jungle in 1943. Beginning in late 1944, allied troops launched a series of offensives that led to the end of Japanese rule in July 1945. The battles were intense with much of Burma laid waste by the fighting. Overall, the Japanese lost some 150,000 men in Burma. Only 1,700 prisoners were taken.

Was Burma effected by the world wars?

Burma was devastated during World War II

Did the British protect Burma as its colony during WWII?

the British administration had collapsed

Where groups from Burma an advantage to the Allies during WWII?

British Chindits were formed into long-range penetration groups trained to operate deep behind Japanese lines. A similar American unit, Merrill's Marauders

How many soldiers were lost by the Japanese in Burma during WWII ?

the Japanese lost some 150,000 men in Burma

When did the temporary Japanese rule end in Burma?

the end of Japanese rule in July 1945


Following World War II, Aung San negotiated the Panglong Agreement with ethnic leaders that guaranteed the independence of Myanmar as a unified state. Aung Zan Wai, Pe Khin, Bo Hmu Aung, Sir Maung Gyi, Dr. Sein Mya Maung, Myoma U Than Kywe were among the negotiators of the historical Panglong Conference negotiated with Bamar leader General Aung San and other ethnic leaders in 1947. In 1947, Aung San became Deputy Chairman of the Executive Council of Myanmar, a transitional government. But in July 1947, political rivals assassinated Aung San and several cabinet members.

Who negotiated the agreement that Burma would be free from forgien rule ?

Aung San

What is the name of the agreement that guarantee Burma's freedom from foreign rule ?

the Panglong Agreement

What leaders were present during the negotiations made for freedom of the Burmese people?

Aung Zan Wai, Pe Khin, Bo Hmu Aung, Sir Maung Gyi, Dr. Sein Mya Maung, Myoma U Than Kywe

What position did Aung San hold in the Burmese government?

Deputy Chairman of the Executive Council of Myanmar

When did and how did Aung San pass away ?

July 1947, political rivals assassinated Aung San


In 1988, unrest over economic mismanagement and political oppression by the government led to widespread pro-democracy demonstrations throughout the country known as the 8888 Uprising. Security forces killed thousands of demonstrators, and General Saw Maung staged a coup d'état and formed the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC). In 1989, SLORC declared martial law after widespread protests. The military government finalised plans for People's Assembly elections on 31 May 1989. SLORC changed the country's official English name from the "Socialist Republic of the Union of Burma" to the "Union of Myanmar" in 1989.

What are the 1988 demonstrations in Burma called?

8888 Uprising

Who lead the government coup in 1988 ?

General Saw Maung

Why was marshal law declared in Burma in 1989?

declared martial law after widespread protests.

What was the official name of Burma changed to by the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC)

Union of Myanmar

Have elections been held in Burma since the military coup in 1988 ?

The military government finalised plans for People's Assembly elections on 31 May 1989


In August 2007, an increase in the price of diesel and petrol led to Saffron Revolution led by Buddhist monks that were dealt with harshly by the government. The government cracked down on them on 26 September 2007. The crackdown was harsh, with reports of barricades at the Shwedagon Pagoda and monks killed. There were also rumours of disagreement within the Burmese armed forces, but none was confirmed. The military crackdown against unarmed protesters was widely condemned as part of the International reactions to the Saffron Revolution and led to an increase in economic sanctions against the Burmese Government.

What was the cause of the insurrection in the summer of 2007 ?

an increase in the price of diesel and petrol

What was the name of the insurgency lead by Buddhist Monks?

Saffron Revolution

Did the insurgency lead to any economic changes in Burma ?

an increase in economic sanctions against the Burmese Government.

How did the world respond to the reported acts of military violence during the Burmese revolution of 2007?

The military crackdown against unarmed protesters was widely condemned as part of the International reactions


In May 2008, Cyclone Nargis caused extensive damage in the densely populated, rice-farming delta of the Irrawaddy Division. It was the worst natural disaster in Burmese history with reports of an estimated 200,000 people dead or missing, and damage totalled to 10 billion US Dollars, and as many as 1 million left homeless. In the critical days following this disaster, Myanmar's isolationist government was accused of hindering United Nations recovery efforts. Humanitarian aid was requested but concerns about foreign military or intelligence presence in the country delayed the entry of United States military planes delivering medicine, food, and other supplies.

What natural disaster caused detrimental effects to the Irrawaddy section of Burma in May of 2008 ?

Cyclone Nargis

What is the main crop of the delta of the Irrawaddy section of Burma?

rice

How many people were reported missing or deceased due to the natural disaster of 2007 ?

estimated 200,000 people dead or missing

How much was the financial cost of the damages of the 2007 natural disaster in Burma ?

10 billion US Dollars

Did the government of Myanmar welcome the international efforts of assistance?

Myanmar's isolationist government was accused of hindering United Nations recovery efforts


In October 2012 the number of ongoing conflicts in Myanmar included the Kachin conflict, between the Pro-Christian Kachin Independence Army and the government; a civil war between the Rohingya Muslims, and the government and non-government groups in Rakhine State; and a conflict between the Shan, Lahu and Karen minority groups, and the government in the eastern half of the country. In addition al-Qaeda signalled an intention to become involved in Myanmar. In a video released 3 September 2014 mainly addressed to India, the militant group's leader Ayman al-Zawahiri said al-Qaeda had not forgotten the Muslims of Myanmar and that the group was doing "what they can to rescue you". In response, the military raised its level of alertness while the Burmese Muslim Association issued a statement saying Muslims would not tolerate any threat to their motherland.

In 2012 what was the the disturbance with the government running smoothly ? Burma?

the number of ongoing conflicts in Myanmar

Were any religious groups involved in the scrimmages ?

Pro-Christian Kachin Independence Army a

Were any terrorist groups involved in the Burmese conflicts ?

al-Qaeda

Does al-Qaeda believe that Muslims in Burma are in danger?

Ayman al-Zawahiri said al-Qaeda had not forgotten the Muslims of Myanmar and that the group was doing "what they can to rescue you".

Did Muslims in Burma give a repose to statements made by al-Qaeda?

the Burmese Muslim Association issued a statement saying Muslims would not tolerate any threat to their motherland.


Armed conflict between ethnic Chinese rebels and the Myanmar Armed Forces have resulted in the Kokang offensive in February 2015. The conflict had forced 40,000 to 50,000 civilians to flee their homes and seek shelter on the Chinese side of the border. During the incident the government of China was accused of giving military assistance to the ethnic Chinese rebels. Burmese officials have been historically 'manipulated' and pressured by the communist Chinese government throughout Burmese modern history to create closer and binding ties with China, creating a Chinese satellite state in Southeast Asia.

What country was Burma involved with in 2015

Armed conflict between ethnic Chinese rebels and the Myanmar Armed Forces

Were there any refuges that resulted from the Burmese conflict in 2015?

The conflict had forced 40,000 to 50,000 civilians to flee their homes and seek shelter

What was the government of China accused of during the Kokang offensive ?

China was accused of giving military assistance to the ethnic Chinese rebels.

Is China an affect on the government in Burma ?

Burmese officials have been historically 'manipulated' and pressured by the communist Chinese

To what benefit of China has its interest in the Burmese government brought about ?

creating a Chinese satellite state in Southeast Asia


The goal of the Burmese constitutional referendum of 2008, held on 10 May 2008, is the creation of a "discipline-flourishing democracy". As part of the referendum process, the name of the country was changed from the "Union of Myanmar" to the "Republic of the Union of Myanmar", and general elections were held under the new constitution in 2010. Observer accounts of the 2010 election describe the event as mostly peaceful; however, allegations of polling station irregularities were raised, and the United Nations (UN) and a number of Western countries condemned the elections as fraudulent.

Where the elections of 2010 conducted fairly in Burma?

allegations of polling station irregularities were raised

Were the results of the 2010 elections accepted by the United Nations?

the United Nations (UN) and a number of Western countries condemned the elections as fraudulent.

What is the name that Burma held before 2010?

Union of Myanmar

Why was the referendum in 2008 ?

the creation of a "discipline-flourishing democracy"


Opinions differ whether the transition to liberal democracy is underway. According to some reports, the military's presence continues as the label 'disciplined democracy' suggests. This label asserts that the Burmese military is allowing certain civil liberties while clandestinely institutionalising itself further into Burmese politics. Such an assertion assumes that reforms only occurred when the military was able to safeguard its own interests through the transition—here, "transition" does not refer to a transition to a liberal democracy, but transition to a quasi-military rule.

Is Burma now a democratic nation?

Opinions differ whether the transition to liberal democracy is underway

Does the military still have a government presence in Burma ?

the military's presence continues

What type of government does Burma operate under ?

'disciplined democracy

Does the military presence interfere with the day to day running of the government ?

reforms only occurred when the military was able to safeguard its own interests


Since the 2010 election, the government has embarked on a series of reforms to direct the country towards liberal democracy, a mixed economy, and reconciliation, although doubts persist about the motives that underpin such reforms. The series of reforms includes the release of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest, the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission, the granting of general amnesties for more than 200 political prisoners, new labour laws that permit labour unions and strikes, a relaxation of press censorship, and the regulation of currency practices.

In what direction is the government of Burma ultimately attempting to go?

reforms to direct the country towards liberal democracy

What type of economy is Burma attempting to reach?

a mixed economy

Where was  Aung San Suu Kyi confined during his imprisonment in Burma ?

house arrest

What happened to the political prisoner being held in Burma ?

granting of general amnesties for more than 200 political prisoners

Are groups who represent workers allowed to express their opinions in protest in Burma?

new labour laws that permit labour unions and strikes


The impact of the post-election reforms has been observed in numerous areas, including ASEAN's approval of Myanmar's bid for the position of ASEAN chair in 2014; the visit by United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in December 2011 for the encouragement of further progress—it was the first visit by a Secretary of State in more than fifty years (Clinton met with the Burmese president and former military commander Thein Sein, as well as opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi); and the participation of Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party in the 2012 by-elections, facilitated by the government's abolition of the laws that previously barred the NLD. As of July 2013, about 100 political prisoners remain imprisoned, while conflict between the Burmese Army and local insurgent groups continues.

Have the changes in Burmese law been of benefit to the country in international views ?

approval of Myanmar's bid for the position of ASEAN chair in 2014; the visit by United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

Who was the United States Secretary of State who visited Myanmar in 2014?

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

How long was the interval between the visits from the United States Secretary of State officials ?

more than fifty years

What political party does Aung San Suu Kyi belong to ?

National League for Democracy (NLD) party


In 1 April 2012 by-elections the NLD won 43 of the 45 available seats; previously an illegal organisation, the NLD had never won a Burmese election until this time. The 2012 by-elections were also the first time that international representatives were allowed to monitor the voting process in Myanmar. Following announcement of the by-elections, the Freedom House organisation raised concerns about "reports of fraud and harassment in the lead up to elections, including the March 23 deportation of Somsri Hananuntasuk, executive director of the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL), a regional network of civil society organisations promoting democratization." However, uncertainties exist as some other political prisoners have not been released and clashes between Burmese troops and local insurgent groups continue.

Does the political party of Aung San Suu Ky hold any positions among the ruling faction ?

43 of the 45 available seats

Are international monitors used in the elections of Burma ?

The 2012 by-elections were also the first time that international representatives were allowed to monitor the voting process in Myanmar

Who raised concerns of fraud in the elections held in the Burma 2012 elections ?

the Freedom House organisation raised concerns

Who was expelled from Myanmar before the elections of 2012 and what position did they hold ?

Somsri Hananuntasuk, executive director of the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL)

Did all of the political prisoners obtain freedom due to the election in Burma of 2012 ?

some other political prisoners have not been released


Burma is bordered in the northwest by the Chittagong Division of Bangladesh and the Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh states of India. Its north and northeast border is with the Tibet Autonomous Region and Yunnan province for a Sino-Burman border total of 2,185 km (1,358 mi). It is bounded by Laos and Thailand to the southeast. Burma has 1,930 km (1,200 mi) of contiguous coastline along the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea to the southwest and the south, which forms one quarter of its total perimeter.

What countries surround the border that is opposite the southwest border of Burma?

Burma is bordered in the northwest by the Chittagong Division of Bangladesh and the Mizoram

What sea is an integral part of the Burma landscape ?

Andaman Sea to the southwest and the south, which forms one quarter of its total perimeter.

How many miles of uninterrupted coastline does Burma encompass?

1,200 mi

What is the name of the bay along the southwest coast of Burma ?

Bay of Bengal

What region lays along the north border of Burma and is famed for the presence of monks ?

the Tibet Autonomous Region


Much of the country lies between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator. It lies in the monsoon region of Asia, with its coastal regions receiving over 5,000 mm (196.9 in) of rain annually. Annual rainfall in the delta region is approximately 2,500 mm (98.4 in), while average annual rainfall in the Dry Zone in central Myanmar is less than 1,000 mm (39.4 in). The Northern regions of Myanmar are the coolest, with average temperatures of 21 °C (70 °F). Coastal and delta regions have an average maximum temperature of 32 °C (89.6 °F).

Where does the majority of the Burmese country fall on the globe ?

Much of the country lies between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator

How much rain is received in the region where Burma is located ?

5,000 mm (196.9 in) of rain annually

What is the expected rainfall in the zone considered to be dry in Burma ?

1,000 mm (39.4 in

What is the average temperature of the coldest  part of Burma and where is it located ?

The Northern regions of Myanmar are the coolest, with average temperatures of 21 °C (70 °F).

How warm does it get at the height of summer along the in the delta and coastal regions of Burma?

Coastal and delta regions have an average maximum temperature of 32 °C (89.6 °F).


Typical jungle animals, particularly tigers and leopards, occur sparsely in Myanmar. In upper Myanmar, there are rhinoceros, wild buffalo, wild boars, deer, antelope, and elephants, which are also tamed or bred in captivity for use as work animals, particularly in the lumber industry. Smaller mammals are also numerous, ranging from gibbons and monkeys to flying foxes and tapirs. The abundance of birds is notable with over 800 species, including parrots, peafowl, pheasants, crows, herons, and paddybirds. Among reptile species there are crocodiles, geckos, cobras, Burmese pythons, and turtles. Hundreds of species of freshwater fish are wide-ranging, plentiful and are very important food sources. For a list of protected areas, see List of protected areas of Myanmar.

What industry is supported by animal labor in Burma ?

the lumber industry

What animals where domesticated in Burma for industry use ?

elephants, which are also tamed or bred in captivity for use as work animals

What is note worthy about the bird population of Burma ?

The abundance of birds is notable with over 800 species

What is an important protein source  in the Burmese diet?

Hundreds of species of freshwater fish

Are large jungle cats part of the animal population of Burma ?

Typical jungle animals, particularly tigers and leopards, occur sparsely in Myanmar


The elections of 2010 resulted in a victory for the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party. Various foreign observers questioned the fairness of the elections. One criticism of the election was that only government sanctioned political parties were allowed to contest in it and the popular National League for Democracy was declared illegal. However, immediately following the elections, the government ended the house arrest of the democracy advocate and leader of the National League for Democracy, Aung San Suu Kyi, and her ability to move freely around the country is considered an important test of the military's movement toward more openness. After unexpected reforms in 2011, NLD senior leaders have decided to register as a political party and to field candidates in future by-elections.

What was the name of the winning unit in the 2010 elections in Burma ?

The elections of 2010 resulted in a victory for the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party

Were the elections held in an unbiased manner Burma in 2010 ?

Various foreign observers questioned the fairness of the elections.

What were some of the opinions foreign advisers stated about the Burma 2010 elections ?

One criticism of the election was that only government sanctioned political parties were allowed to contest in it

What was the Burmese official decision concerning the legitimacy of National League for Democracy in 2010 ?

the popular National League for Democracy was declared illegal


Though the country's foreign relations, particularly with Western nations, have been strained, relations have thawed since the reforms following the 2010 elections. After years of diplomatic isolation and economic and military sanctions, the United States relaxed curbs on foreign aid to Myanmar in November 2011 and announced the resumption of diplomatic relations on 13 January 2012 The European Union has placed sanctions on Myanmar, including an arms embargo, cessation of trade preferences, and suspension of all aid with the exception of humanitarian aid.

How have international relations developed due to the recent political changes in Burma ?

relations have thawed since the reforms following the 2010 elections.

What did the United States do in response to the reform changes of the 2010 Burma elections ?

the United States relaxed curbs on foreign aid to Myanmar in November 2011 and announced the resumption of diplomatic relations

What type of activity has the European Union engaged in in response to the reforms made in Burma ?

sanctions on Myanmar, including an arms embargo, cessation of trade preferences, and suspension of all aid with the exception of humanitarian aid.

How did the United States treat Myanmar prior to the changes made in Burmese government ?

years of diplomatic isolation and economic and military sanctions


Sanctions imposed by the United States and European countries against the former military government, coupled with boycotts and other direct pressure on corporations by supporters of the democracy movement, have resulted in the withdrawal from the country of most US and many European companies. On 13 April 2012 British Prime Minister David Cameron called for the economic sanctions on Myanmar to be suspended in the wake of the pro-democracy party gaining 43 seats out of a possible 45 in the 2012 by-elections with the party leader, Aung San Suu Kyi becoming a member of the Burmese parliament.

How are international businesses discouraged from operating in Burma?

Sanctions imposed by the United States and European countries against the former military government, coupled with boycotts

What was the result for internationals companies attempting to conduct business in Burma ?

the withdrawal from the country of most US and many European companies

Who called for the sanctions in Burma to be given reprieve ?

British Prime Minister David Cameron

What did Aung San Suu Kyi become a part of in Burma ?

the Burmese parliament


Despite Western isolation, Asian corporations have generally remained willing to continue investing in the country and to initiate new investments, particularly in natural resource extraction. The country has close relations with neighbouring India and China with several Indian and Chinese companies operating in the country. Under India's Look East policy, fields of co-operation between India and Myanmar include remote sensing, oil and gas exploration, information technology, hydro power and construction of ports and buildings.

How do Asian countries feel about the European attitude towards Burma ?

Asian corporations have generally remained willing to continue investing in the country and to initiate new investments

What is a popular business for international Asian countries in Burma ?

natural resource extraction.

What two countries does Burma have Superior relationships with ?

India and China

What is the benefit to the two countries involved in the  India Look East policy ?

fields of co-operation between India and Myanmar include remote sensing, oil and gas exploration, information technology, hydro power and construction


In 2008, India suspended military aid to Myanmar over the issue of human rights abuses by the ruling junta, although it has preserved extensive commercial ties, which provide the regime with much-needed revenue. The thaw in relations began on 28 November 2011, when Belarusian Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich and his wife Ludmila arrived in the capital, Naypyidaw, the same day as the country received a visit by US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who also met with pro-democracy opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi. International relations progress indicators continued in September 2012 when Aung San Suu Kyi visited to the US followed by Myanmar's reformist president visit to the United Nations.

Why did India stop supporting the military in Myanmar in 2008 ?

over the issue of human rights abuses by the ruling junta

Did the military sanctions imposed by India affect the business workings of it's relations in Burma ?

it has preserved extensive commercial ties

Who helped to improve the relations between India and Burma?

Belarusian Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich and his wife Ludmila

What city in Burma was visited by the envoy from India

the capital, Naypyidaw


In May 2013, Thein Sein became the first Myanmar president to visit the White House in 47 years; the last Burmese leader to visit the White House was Ne Win in September 1966. President Barack Obama praised the former general for political and economic reforms, and the cessation of tensions between Myanmar and the United States. Political activists objected to the visit due to concerns over human rights abuses in Myanmar but Obama assured Thein Sein that Myanmar will receive US support. The two leaders discussed to release more political prisoners, the institutionalisation of political reform and rule of law, and ending ethnic conflict in Myanmar—the two governments agreed to sign a bilateral trade and investment framework agreement on 21 May 2013.

Who is the first official Burmese delegate to visit the white house following the 2010 elections in Burma ?

Thein Sein became the first Myanmar president to visit the White House in 47 years

When was the most prior visit from a Burmese representative to the  United States prior to 2010 ?

the last Burmese leader to visit the White House was Ne Win in September 1966

Was the visit from the Burmese delegate welcome in the United States in 2010?

Political activists objected to the visit due to concerns over human rights abuses in Myanmar

Did the visit to the United States result in the release of political prisoners in Burma ?

leaders discussed to release more political prisoners

What agreements were made in the visit to the United States by the Burmese in the 21 century ?

to sign a bilateral trade and investment framework agreement on 21 May 2013.


Myanmar has received extensive military aid from China in the past Myanmar has been a member of ASEAN since 1997. Though it gave up its turn to hold the ASEAN chair and host the ASEAN Summit in 2006, it chaired the forum and hosted the summit in 2014. In November 2008, Myanmar's political situation with neighbouring Bangladesh became tense as they began searching for natural gas in a disputed block of the Bay of Bengal. Controversy surrounding the Rohingya population also remains an issue between Bangladesh and Myanmar.

What country has provided Burma with the most military aid ?

Myanmar has received extensive military aid from China

How long has Burma participated in the group ASEAN ?

Myanmar has been a member of ASEAN since 1997

What year was Myanmar the host for the ASEAN conference?

hosted the summit in 2014

What event caused tension between Burma and Bangladesh in 2008 ?

natural gas in a disputed block of the Bay of Bengal


Myanmar's armed forces are known as the Tatmadaw, which numbers 488,000. The Tatmadaw comprises the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force. The country ranked twelfth in the world for its number of active troops in service. The military is very influential in Myanmar, with all top cabinet and ministry posts usually held by military officials. Official figures for military spending are not available. Estimates vary widely because of uncertain exchange rates, but Myanmar's military forces' expenses are high. Myanmar imports most of its weapons from Russia, Ukraine, China and India.

What is the name of the military in Burma ?

Tatmadaw

How large is the military of Burma ?

numbers 488,000

Which traditional branches of the military does Burma have?

Army, the Navy, and the Air Force

What ranking does Burma hold for the number of troops currently serving on active military duty ?

The country ranked twelfth in the world for its number of active troops in service.

From where does Burma receive most of its military artillery ?

Myanmar imports most of its weapons from Russia, Ukraine, China and India.


Until 2005, the United Nations General Assembly annually adopted a detailed resolution about the situation in Myanmar by consensus. But in 2006 a divided United Nations General Assembly voted through a resolution that strongly called upon the government of Myanmar to end its systematic violations of human rights. In January 2007, Russia and China vetoed a draft resolution before the United Nations Security Council calling on the government of Myanmar to respect human rights and begin a democratic transition. South Africa also voted against the resolution.

What did the United adopt in reference to Burma annually until 2005 ?

Until 2005, the United Nations General Assembly annually adopted a detailed resolution about the situation in Myanmar by consensus.

What occurred in the United Nations general convening in 2006 ?

voted through a resolution that strongly called upon the government of Myanmar to end its systematic violations of human rights.

What did China and Russia both do in 2008 ?

vetoed a draft resolution before the United Nations Security Council calling on the government of Myanmar

What other countries were in disagreement with the United Nations decision on Burma ?

South Africa


There is consensus that the military regime in Myanmar is one of the world's most repressive and abusive regimes. In November 2012, Samantha Power, Barack Obama's Special Assistant to the President on Human Rights, wrote on the White House blog in advance of the president's visit that "Serious human rights abuses against civilians in several regions continue, including against women and children." Members of the United Nations and major international human rights organisations have issued repeated and consistent reports of widespread and systematic human rights violations in Myanmar. The United Nations General Assembly has repeatedly called on the Burmese Military Junta to respect human rights and in November 2009 the General Assembly adopted a resolution "strongly condemning the ongoing systematic violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms" and calling on the Burmese Military Regime "to take urgent measures to put an end to violations of international human rights and humanitarian law."

What is the general view of Burma ?

military regime in Myanmar is one of the world's most repressive and abusive regimes

Who is Samantha Power?

Barack Obama's Special Assistant to the President on Human Rights

What did Ms Powers write concerning Burma ?

"Serious human rights abuses against civilians in several regions continue, including against women and children


International human rights organisations including Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and the American Association for the Advancement of Science have repeatedly documented and condemned widespread human rights violations in Myanmar. The Freedom in the World 2011 report by Freedom House notes, "The military junta has ... suppressed nearly all basic rights; and committed human rights abuses with impunity." In July 2013, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners indicated that there were approximately 100 political prisoners being held in Burmese prisons.

What are the names of some of the  human right organizations that have been involved in Burmese relations.

Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and the American Association for the Advancement of Science

In 2011 what did the group Freedom House say concerning the Burma military?

The military junta has ... suppressed nearly all basic rights; and committed human rights abuses with impunity

How many prisoners are still held in Burma on political crimes?

In July 2013, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners indicated that there were approximately 100 political prisoners being held


Child soldiers have and continue to play a major part in the Burmese Army as well as Burmese rebel movements. The Independent reported in June 2012 that "Children are being sold as conscripts into the Burmese military for as little as $40 and a bag of rice or a can of petrol." The UN's Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, Radhika Coomaraswamy, who stepped down from her position a week later, met representatives of the Government of Myanmar on 5 July 2012 and stated that she hoped the government's signing of an action plan would "signal a transformation." In September 2012, the Myanmar Armed Forces released 42 child soldiers and the International Labour Organization met with representatives of the government as well as the Kachin Independence Army to secure the release of more child soldiers. According to Samantha Power, a US delegation raised the issue of child soldiers with the government in October 2012. However, she did not comment on the government's progress towards reform in this area.

How are children used in the conflicts in Burma?

Child soldiers have and continue to play a major part in the Burmese Army as well as Burmese rebel movements.

How are children obtained for use as solders in Burma ?

Children are being sold as conscripts into the Burmese military for as little as $40 and a bag of rice or a can of petrol

How many child solders were released from the Burmese military in 2012 ?

the Myanmar Armed Forces released 42 child soldiers


The Rohingya people have consistently faced human rights abuses by the Burmese regime that has refused to acknowledge them as Burmese citizens (despite some of them having lived in Burma for over three generations)—the Rohingya have been denied Burmese citizenship since the enactment of a 1982 citizenship law. The law created three categories of citizenship: citizenship, associate citizenship, and naturalised citizenship. Citizenship is given to those who belong to one of the national races such as Kachin, Kayah (Karenni), Karen, Chin, Burman, Mon, Rakhine, Shan, Kaman, or Zerbadee. Associate citizenship is given to those who cannot prove their ancestors settled in Myanmar before 1823, but can prove they have one grandparent, or pre-1823 ancestor, who was a citizen of another country, as well as people who applied for citizenship in 1948 and qualified then by those laws. Naturalized citizenship is only given to those who have at least one parent with one of these types of Burmese citizenship or can provide "conclusive evidence" that their parents entered and resided in Burma prior to independence in 1948. The Burmese regime has attempted to forcibly expel Rohingya and bring in non-Rohingyas to replace them—this policy has resulted in the expulsion of approximately half of the 800,000 Rohingya from Burma, while the Rohingya people have been described as "among the world's least wanted" and "one of the world's most persecuted minorities." But the origin of ‘most persecuted minority’ statement is unclear.

What section of the Burmese population is routinely discriminated against ?

The Rohingya people

When was the citizenship laws placed into effect in Burma ?

How does one become a full citizen in Burma ?

Citizenship is given to those who belong to one of the national races

What races are considered for full citizenship in Burma?

national races such as Kachin, Kayah (Karenni), Karen, Chin, Burman, Mon, Rakhine, Shan, Kaman, or Zerbadee

What happens if one is not able to prove ancestral claim on full citizenship ?

Associate citizenship is given to those who cannot prove their ancestors settled in Myanmar before 1823

When did the Rohingya lose citizenship rights in Burma?

the Rohingya have been denied Burmese citizenship since the enactment of a 1982 citizenship law

How is the decision made on who gets full citizenship rights in Burma?

Citizenship is given to those who belong to one of the national races

What races are considered to be the of the the national races in Burma ?

national races such as Kachin, Kayah (Karenni), Karen, Chin, Burman, Mon, Rakhine, Shan, Kaman, or Zerbadee.

How can one prove their race in Burma ?

prove their ancestors settled in Myanmar before 1823

How many of the  Rohingya people have new changes in citizenship caused to become refugees ?

expulsion of approximately half of the 800,000 Rohingya from Burma,


In 2007 the German professor Bassam Tibi suggested that the Rohingya conflict may be driven by an Islamist political agenda to impose religious laws, while non-religious causes have also been raised, such as a lingering resentment over the violence that occurred during the Japanese occupation of Burma in World War II—during this time period the British allied themselves with the Rohingya and fought against the puppet government of Burma (composed mostly of Bamar Japanese) that helped to establish the Tatmadaw military organisation that remains in power as of March 2013.

What is believed to be one of the potential religious instigators for the stiff in Burma against a certain race ?

suggested that the Rohingya conflict may be driven by an Islamist political agenda to impose religious laws

Who occupied Burma during the Second World War ?

the Japanese

What system of militaristic management exists in Burma?

the Tatmadaw

What may have caused negative feeling to still linger among the different races of the Burmese people ?

lingering resentment over the violence that occurred during the Japanese occupation

Who did the British choose to back in Burma during WWII ?

British allied themselves with the Rohingya


Since the democratic transition began in 2011, there has been continuous violence as 280 people have been killed and 140,000 forced to flee from their homes in the Rakhine state. A UN envoy reported in March 2013 that unrest had re-emerged between Myanmar's Buddhist and Muslim communities, with violence spreading to towns that are located closer to Yangon. The BBC News media outlet obtained video footage of a man with severe burns who received no assistance from passers-by or police officers even though he was lying on the ground in a public area. The footage was filmed by members of the Burmese police force in the town of Meiktila and was used as evidence that Buddhists continued to kill Muslims after the European Union sanctions were lifted on 23 April 2013.

Has the violence in Burma decreased over the years as the country has tried made democratic strides ?

Since the democratic transition began in 2011, there has been continuous violence as 280 people have been killed and 140,000 forced to flee

Are the separate religious factions in Burma able to peacefully coexist ?

unrest had re-emerged between Myanmar's Buddhist and Muslim communities, with violence

What news company  discovered visual evidence of the disdain exhibited by civil employees and civilians in Burma ?

BBC News media outlet obtained video footage of a man with severe burns who received no assistance from passers-by or police officers

Who recorded the visual evidence on the disdainful incident?

footage was filmed by members of the Burmese police force in the town of Meiktila

Who was the videotape used as evidence against in Burma ?

used as evidence that Buddhists continued to kill Muslims after the European Union sanctions were lifted on 23 April 2013.


The immediate cause of the riots is unclear, with many commentators citing the killing of ten Burmese Muslims by ethnic Rakhine after the rape and murder of a Rakhine woman as the main cause. Whole villages have been "decimated". Over 300 houses and a number of public buildings have been razed. According to Tun Khin, the president of the Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK (BROUK), as of 28 June 2012, 650 Rohingyas have been killed, 1,200 are missing, and more than 80,000 have been displaced. According to the Myanmar authorities, the violence, between ethnic Rakhine Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims, left 78 people dead, 87 injured, and thousands of homes destroyed. It displaced more than 52,000 people.

What was believed to be one of the Burma reasons for the unrest in 2012 ?

many commentators citing the killing of ten Burmese Muslims by ethnic Rakhine

How many are believed to have been uprooted by this unrest ?

It displaced more than 52,000 people

Who is the president of the BROUK's UK division?

Tun Khin

How many people where missing after the 2012 Burma civil unrest ?

1,200 are missing


The government has responded by imposing curfews and by deploying troops in the regions. On 10 June 2012, a state of emergency was declared in Rakhine, allowing the military to participate in administration of the region. The Burmese army and police have been accused of targeting Rohingya Muslims through mass arrests and arbitrary violence. A number of monks' organisations that played a vital role in Myanmar's struggle for democracy have taken measures to block any humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya community.

How did the Burmese government respond to the unrest in 2012 ?

The government has responded by imposing curfews and by deploying troops in the regions

What happened in Rakhine in the summer of 2012 that had severe implications on the running of the location?

On 10 June 2012, a state of emergency was declared in Rakhine, allowing the military to participate in administration of the region

What have the military and law enforcement been denounced for in the matter of  summer of 2012 ?

The Burmese army and police have been accused of targeting Rohingya Muslims through mass arrests and arbitrary violence

How have the friar organizations contributed to the struggle in Burma?

monks' organisations that played a vital role in Myanmar's struggle for democracy have taken measures to block any humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya


Restrictions on media censorship were significantly eased in August 2012 following demonstrations by hundreds of protesters who wore shirts demanding that the government "Stop Killing the Press." The most significant change has come in the form that media organisations will no longer have to submit their content to a censorship board before publication. However, as explained by one editorial in the exiled press The Irrawaddy, this new "freedom" has caused some Burmese journalists to simply see the new law as an attempt to create an environment of self-censorship as journalists "are required to follow 16 guidelines towards protecting the three national causes — non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity, perpetuation of sovereignty — and "journalistic ethics" to ensure their stories are accurate and do not jeopardise national security." In July 2014 five journalists were sentenced to 10 years in jail after publishing a report saying the country was planning to build a new chemical weapons plant. Journalists described the jailings as a blow to the recently-won news media freedoms that had followed five decades of censorship and persecution.

Have there been any changes to restrictions placed on the communications networks in Burma ?

Restrictions on media censorship were significantly eased in August 2012

If communications restrictions have changed how so?

The most significant change has come in the form that media organisations will no longer have to submit their content to a censorship board before publication.

What is the name of the newspaper that was banished from Burma?

The Irrawaddy

What is required of commentators before publishing or airing content ?

journalists "are required to follow 16 guidelines towards protecting the three national causes

What did demonstrators wear during the media rally?

wore shirts demanding that the government "Stop Killing the Press.


According to the Crisis Group, since Myanmar transitioned to a new government in August 2011, the country's human rights record has been improving. Previously giving Myanmar its lowest rating of 7, the 2012 Freedom in the World report also notes improvement, giving Myanmar a 6 for improvements in civil liberties and political rights, the release of political prisoners, and a loosening of restrictions. In 2013, Myanmar improved yet again, receiving a score of five in civil liberties and a six in political freedoms

What is the name of the individuals who gave relevant information on the recent events in Burma ?

the Crisis Group

Have there been any advances in the human rights situation in Myanmar?

the country's human rights record has been improving

What is the current rating of for Burma from the  Freedom in the World report and what caused the current standing ?

Myanmar improved yet again, receiving a score of five in civil liberties and a six in political freedom

What was the previous rating for Burma?

lowest rating of 7

What caused Myanmar to receive a rating of 6?

improvements in civil liberties and political rights, the release of political prisoners, and a loosening of restrictions.


The government has assembled a National Human Rights Commission that consists of 15 members from various backgrounds. Several activists in exile, including Thee Lay Thee Anyeint members, have returned to Myanmar after President Thein Sein's invitation to expatriates to return home to work for national development. In an address to the United Nations Security Council on 22 September 2011, Myanmar's Foreign Minister Wunna Maung Lwin confirmed the government's intention to release prisoners in the near future.

What did the government bring together ?

National Human Rights Commission

Once the decision was made to bring the group together who was it comprised of ?

consists of 15 members from various backgrounds

Has the joining brought about any changes in the region ?

invitation to expatriates to return home to work for national development.

Who extended the offer to the activists ?

President Thein Sein

Who addressed the United nations on Myanmar's behalf in the fall 2011 ?

Myanmar's Foreign Minister Wunna Maung Lwin


The government has also relaxed reporting laws, but these remain highly restrictive. In September 2011, several banned websites, including YouTube, Democratic Voice of Burma and Voice of America, were unblocked. A 2011 report by the Hauser Center for Nonprofit Organizations found that, while contact with the Myanmar government was constrained by donor restrictions, international humanitarian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) see opportunities for effective advocacy with government officials, especially at the local level. At the same time, international NGOs are mindful of the ethical quandary of how to work with the government without bolstering or appeasing it.

Has the government of Myanmar made life any easier for it's inhabitants ?

has also relaxed reporting laws, but these remain highly restrictive.

Does the government allow access to any desired  media channels for residents ?

several banned websites, including YouTube, Democratic Voice of Burma and Voice of America, were unblocked.

Are there any groups who are able to effectively operate in Burma ?

international humanitarian non-governmental organisations (NGOs)

Why are groups hesitant to work with government officials ?

ethical quandary of how to work with the government without bolstering or appeasing it.


Following Thein Sein's first ever visit to the UK and a meeting with Prime Minister David Cameron, the Myanmar president declared that all of his nation's political prisoners will be released by the end of 2013, in addition to a statement of support for the well-being of the Rohingya Muslim community. In a speech at Chatham House, he revealed that "We [Myanmar government] are reviewing all cases. I guarantee to you that by the end of this year, there will be no prisoners of conscience in Myanmar.", in addition to expressing a desire to strengthen links between the UK and Myanmar's military forces.

What official was the first to visit the grounds of Great Britain from Burma?

Thein Sein

Who did the official from Myanmar meet with ?

Prime Minister David Cameron,

What was the outcome of the meeting ?

Myanmar president declared that all of his nation's political prisoners will be released by the end of 2013

Where did the official make his announcement of the meetings outcome ?

at Chatham House

What would the official like to see happen between the two countries ?

a desire to strengthen links between the UK and Myanmar's military forces


Under British administration, Myanmar was the second-wealthiest country in South-East Asia. It had been the world's largest exporter of rice. Myanmar also had a wealth of natural and labour resources. British Burma began exporting crude oil in 1853, making it one of the earliest petroleum producers in the world. It produced 75% of the world's teak and had a highly literate population. The wealth was however, mainly concentrated in the hands of Europeans. In 1930s, agricultural production fell dramatically as international rice prices declined, and did not recover for several decades.

In terms of finance, when being ruled by the English, where did Burma stand ?

Under British administration, Myanmar was the second-wealthiest country in South-East Asia.

What was Burma's greatest export during that time of English rule ?

rice

What did Myanmar do that made it know to be one of the originals in a particular finance producing endeavor ?

Burma began exporting crude oil in 1853, making it one of the earliest petroleum producers in the world.

What wood product was produced primarily in Myanmar during British rule ?

75% of the world's teak

What notable quality made Burma stand out from other South East Asian countries ?

a highly literate population


During World War II, the British destroyed the major government buildings, oil wells and mines for tungsten, tin, lead and silver to keep them from the Japanese. Myanmar was bombed extensively by both sides. After independence, the country was in ruins with its major infrastructure completely destroyed. After a parliamentary government was formed in 1948, Prime Minister U Nu embarked upon a policy of nationalisation and the state was declared the owner of all land. The government also tried to implement a poorly considered Eight-Year plan. By the 1950s, rice exports had fallen by two thirds and mineral exports by over 96% (as compared to the pre-World War II period). Plans were partly financed by printing money, which led to inflation.

How did world war two affect Burmese business and economy ?

British destroyed the major government buildings, oil wells and mines for tungsten, tin, lead and silver to keep them from the Japanese.

How was the Burma framework affected by WWII ?

the country was in ruins with its major infrastructure completely destroyed.

What lead to the architectural changes in Myanmar ?

bombed extensively

Who was credited with changes that occurred to the interior due to the war's effects ?

bombed extensively by both sides

When was Myanmar given sovereignty to rule it's own nation ?

1948, Prime Minister U Nu embarked upon a policy of nationalisation and the state was declared the owner of all land.


The major agricultural product is rice, which covers about 60% of the country's total cultivated land area. Rice accounts for 97% of total food grain production by weight. Through collaboration with the International Rice Research Institute 52 modern rice varieties were released in the country between 1966 and 1997, helping increase national rice production to 14 million tons in 1987 and to 19 million tons in 1996. By 1988, modern varieties were planted on half of the country's ricelands, including 98 percent of the irrigated areas. In 2008 rice production was estimated at 50 million tons.

What is the major farming production crop in Burma?

rice

What percentage of  the countries's farm-able land is used for the major farming production crop in Burma?

What category does the major farming production crop in Burma fall into ?

food grain production

How is production in the category tallied ?

by weight

How many novel types of this crop did Burma develop as of 1997 ?

52 modern rice varieties


Many US and European jewellery companies, including Bulgari, Tiffany, and Cartier, refuse to import these stones based on reports of deplorable working conditions in the mines. Human Rights Watch has encouraged a complete ban on the purchase of Burmese gems based on these reports and because nearly all profits go to the ruling junta, as the majority of mining activity in the country is government-run. The government of Myanmar controls the gem trade by direct ownership or by joint ventures with private owners of mines.

What is the difficulty with expanding the gem business in Burma ?

US and European jewellery companies, including Bulgari, Tiffany, and Cartier, refuse to import these stones based

Why is Burma experiencing this problem with the gems industry  ?

reports of deplorable working conditions in the mines.

Who gave information on the gem industries in Burma ?

Human Rights Watch

What did the group advised based on the information's results ?

encouraged a complete ban on the purchase of Burmese gems based

Who receives the majority of financial benefits from the gem mining ?

the ruling junta


The most popular available tourist destinations in Myanmar include big cities such as Yangon and Mandalay; religious sites in Mon State, Pindaya, Bago and Hpa-An; nature trails in Inle Lake, Kengtung, Putao, Pyin Oo Lwin; ancient cities such as Bagan and Mrauk-U; as well as beaches in Nabule, Ngapali, Ngwe-Saung, Mergui. Nevertheless, much of the country is off-limits to tourists, and interactions between foreigners and the people of Myanmar, particularly in the border regions, are subject to police scrutiny. They are not to discuss politics with foreigners, under penalty of imprisonment and, in 2001, the Myanmar Tourism Promotion Board issued an order for local officials to protect tourists and limit "unnecessary contact" between foreigners and ordinary Burmese people.

Name two of the metropolitan areas that are enjoyed most frequently by tourist in Myanmar  ?

Yangon and Mandalay

What are two of the top spiritual destination that Myanmar offers ?

Mon State, Pindaya, Bago and Hpa-An

Does Myanmar offer any destinations  that might be good for outside enthusiasts ?

nature trails in Inle Lake, Kengtung, Putao, Pyin Oo Lwin

Are there any edifice points of interest that may be of note to visitors of Burma?

ancient cities such as Bagan and Mrauk-U; as well as beaches in Nabule, Ngapali, Ngwe-Saung, Mergui.

Can visitors travel unrestricted through the country ?

much of the country is off-limits to tourists


The most common way for travellers to enter the country seems to be by air. According to the website Lonely Planet, getting into Myanmar is problematic: "No bus or train service connects Myanmar with another country, nor can you travel by car or motorcycle across the border – you must walk across.", and states that, "It is not possible for foreigners to go to/from Myanmar by sea or river." There are a small number of border crossings that allow the passage of private vehicles, such as the border between Ruili (China) to Mu-se, the border between Htee Kee (Myanmar) and Ban Phu Nam Ron (Thailand) (the most direct border between Dawei and Kanchanaburi), and the border between Myawaddy (Myanmar) and Mae Sot (Thailand). At least one tourist company has successfully run commercial overland routes through these borders since 2013. "From Mae Sai (Thailand) you can cross to Tachileik, but can only go as far as Kengtung. Those in Thailand on a visa run can cross to Kawthaung but cannot venture farther into Myanmar."

How are most visitors ushered into the city of Myanmar ?

by air

Is Myanmar convenient to other countries in South East Asia ?

No bus or train service connects Myanmar with another country, nor can you travel by car or motorcycle across the border – you must walk across

Are there any cruise travel destinations for Myanmar ?

It is not possible for foreigners to go to/from Myanmar by sea or river.

How long have bus tours been available to tourist of Myanmar ?

one tourist company has successfully run commercial overland routes through these borders since 2013.

How far are the people from Taiwan ,but not actually citizens of Taiwan, allowed to venture into the Myanmar territory ?

Those in Thailand on a visa run can cross to Kawthaung but cannot venture farther into Myanmar


Flights are available from most countries, though direct flights are limited to mainly Thai and other ASEAN airlines. According to Eleven magazine, "In the past, there were only 15 international airlines and increasing numbers of airlines have began launching direct flights from Japan, Qatar, Taiwan, South Korea, Germany and Singapore." Expansions were expected in September 2013, but yet again are mainly Thai and other Asian-based airlines according to Eleven Media Group's Eleven, "Thailand-based Nok Air and Business Airlines and Singapore-based Tiger Airline".

Can one travel by plane from any country in Myanmar ?

Flights are available from most countries

Is there anyway to decrease travel time in getting to Myanmar ?

direct flights are limited to mainly Thai and other ASEAN airlines

Has the travel industry considered making changes to fight plans for Myanmar ?

5 international airlines and increasing numbers of airlines have began launching direct flights from Japan, Qatar, Taiwan, South Korea, Germany and Singapore.

What airlines travel to Myanmar that currently has development plans towards expanding ?

Thailand-based Nok Air and Business Airlines and Singapore-based Tiger Airline".


In December 2014, Myanmar signed an agreement to set up its first stock exchange. The Yangon Stock Exchange Joint Venture Co. Ltd will be set up with Myanma Economic Bank sharing 51 percent, Japan's Daiwa Institute of Research Ltd 30.25 percent and Japan Exchange Group 18.75 percent. The Yangon Stock Exchange (YSX) officially opened for business on Friday, March 25, 2016. First Myanmar Investment Co., Ltd. (FMI) became the first stock to be traded after receiving approval for an opening price of 26,000 kyats ($22).

What occurred in the winter of 2014 of significance for Myanmar ?

December 2014, Myanmar signed an agreement to set up its first stock exchange

What is the name of the business that first rang a bell to begin in the winter of 2014 in Myanmar ?

Yangon Stock Exchange Joint Venture Co. Ltd

W is set to to be the major stock holder of the business that first rang a bell to begin in the winter of 2014 in Myanmar ?

Myanma Economic Bank sharing 51 percent

Did other countries actively participate in business that first rang a bell to begin in the winter of 2014 in Myanmar ?

Japan's Daiwa Institute of Research Ltd 30.25 percent and Japan Exchange Group 18.75 percent.

What day did the business that first rang a bell to begin in the winter of 2014 in Myanmar open its doors to customers?

Yangon Stock Exchange (YSX) officially opened for business on Friday, March 25, 2016.


The provisional results of the 2014 Myanmar Census show that the total population is 51,419,420. This figure includes an estimated 1,206,353 persons in parts of northern Rakhine State, Kachin State and Kayin State who were not counted. People who were out of the country at the time of the census are not included in these figures. There are over 600,000 registered migrant workers from Myanmar in Thailand, and millions more work illegally. Burmese migrant workers account for 80% of Thailand's migrant workers. Population density is 76 per square kilometre (200/sq mi), among the lowest in Southeast Asia.

How many are estimated people live in Burma officially?

provisional results of the 2014 Myanmar Census show that the total population is 51,419,420

Who may have been left out of the 2014 census in Burma ?

an estimated 1,206,353 persons in parts of northern Rakhine State, Kachin State and Kayin State who were not counted.

How many people in Burma are currently using a work visa for Thailand?

600,000 registered migrant workers from Myanmar in Thailand

How many of the Burmese  people are predicted to work in Thailand without authorization

millions more work illegally

What percentage of emigrant workers in Thailand that are from Myanmar ?

80% of Thailand's migrant workers


The Bamar form an estimated 68% of the population. 10% of the population are Shan. The Kayin make up 7% of the population. The Rakhine people constitute 4% of the population. Overseas Chinese form approximately 3% of the population. Myanmar's ethnic minority groups prefer the term "ethnic nationality" over "ethnic minority" as the term "minority" furthers their sense of insecurity in the face of what is often described as "Burmanisation"—the proliferation and domination of the dominant Bamar culture over minority cultures.

What is the largest percentage of  the Burmese populace ?

Bamar form an estimated 68% of the population

What is the smallest percentage of the Burmese populace ?

Overseas Chinese form approximately 3% of the population

What is the preferential term for those in Burma that are not a part of the racial majority ?

ethnic nationality

What does the term Burmanisation make people feel ?

the proliferation and domination of the dominant Bamar culture over minority cultures.

What percentage of the population is of the  Rakhine descendant line ?

Rakhine people constitute 4% of the population


Mon, who form 2% of the population, are ethno-linguistically related to the Khmer. Overseas Indians are 2%. The remainder are Kachin, Chin, Rohingya, Anglo-Indians, Gurkha, Nepali and other ethnic minorities. Included in this group are the Anglo-Burmese. Once forming a large and influential community, the Anglo-Burmese left the country in steady streams from 1958 onwards, principally to Australia and the UK. It is estimated that 52,000 Anglo-Burmese remain in Myanmar. As of 2009[update], 110,000 Burmese refugees were living in refugee camps in Thailand.

What percentage of people in Burma are related by linguistically lines to the Khmer.

2% of the population, are ethno-linguistically related to the Khmer

Which community previously held a persuasive authority on the Burmese population?

Anglo-Burmese

When did a mass migration of the community that  previously held a persuasive authority on the Burmese population start?

1958 onwards

Where did the majority of these people end up after Burma ?

principally to Australia and the UK


Myanmar is home to four major language families: Sino-Tibetan, Tai–Kadai, Austro-Asiatic, and Indo-European. Sino-Tibetan languages are most widely spoken. They include Burmese, Karen, Kachin, Chin, and Chinese (mainly Hokkien). The primary Tai–Kadai language is Shan. Mon, Palaung, and Wa are the major Austroasiatic languages spoken in Myanmar. The two major Indo-European languages are Pali, the liturgical language of Theravada Buddhism, and English. Little known fact about Myanmar is there are more than 130 languages spoken by people in Myanmar. Since many of them are known only within small tribes around the country, they may have been lost (many if not all) after a few generations.

What are the four categories for the most prolific dialects used in Burma ?

Sino-Tibetan, Tai–Kadai, Austro-Asiatic, and Indo-European.

What are the primary languages of Europe that are used in Burma ?

Pali, the liturgical language of Theravada Buddhism, and English

How many different types of dictionaries could you potentially need to cover all the languages spoken in Myanmar

there are more than 130 languages spoken by people in Myanmar

Are the languages of Myanmar widely used by other nations  ?

many of them are known only within small tribes around the country

What is the preferred lingo for the Tai–Kadai language?

The primary Tai–Kadai language is Shan


Burmese, the mother tongue of the Bamar and official language of Myanmar, is related to Tibetan and Chinese language. It is written in a script consisting of circular and semi-circular letters, which were adapted from the Mon script, which in turn was developed from a southern Indian script in the 5th century. The earliest known inscriptions in the Burmese script date from the 11th century. It is also used to write Pali, the sacred language of Theravada Buddhism, as well as several ethnic minority languages, including Shan, several Karen dialects, and Kayah (Karenni), with the addition of specialised characters and diacritics for each language.

What is the matriarchal brogue of Burma that became the countries' standard vernacular ?

Burmese

Which two vernaculars hold relation to the official language?

Tibetan and Chinese language

How is the recognized official language of Burma displayed ?

It is written in a script consisting of circular and semi-circular letters

On what is the visual display of the language a subset of  ?

the Mon script, which in turn was developed from a southern Indian script in the 5th century

From when are the  first impressions of the visually displayed language ?

The earliest known inscriptions in the Burmese script date from the 11th century.


Many religions are practised in Myanmar. Religious edifices and orders have been in existence for many years. Festivals can be held on a grand scale. The Christian and Muslim populations do, however, face religious persecution and it is hard, if not impossible, for non-Buddhists to join the army or get government jobs, the main route to success in the country. Such persecution and targeting of civilians is particularly notable in Eastern Myanmar, where over 3000 villages have been destroyed in the past ten years. More than 200,000 Muslims have fled to Bangladesh over the last 20 years to escape Islamophobic persecution.

Does Burma have more than one religion ?

Many religions are practised in Myanmar

Are public displays allowed for the celebration of religion in Myanmar ?

Festivals can be held on a grand scale.

Are all welcomed to practice faith openly in Burma

Christian and Muslim populations do, however, face religious persecution

Can anyone in Burma Join the military forces in Burma ?

it is hard, if not impossible, for non-Buddhists to join the army

What are the best routes for career achievement in Burma ?

join the army or get government jobs, the main route to success in the country.


According to Pew Research, 7% of the population identifies as Christian; 4% as Muslim; 1% follows traditional animistic beliefs; and 2% follow other religions, including Mahayana Buddhism, Hinduism, and East Asian religions. However, according to a US State Department's 2010 international religious freedom report, official statistics are alleged to underestimate the non-Buddhist population. Independent researchers put the Muslim population at 6 to 10% of the population[citation needed]. Jehovah's Witnesses have been present since 1914 and have about 80 congregations around the country and a branch office in Yangon publishing in 16 languages. A tiny Jewish community in Rangoon had a synagogue but no resident rabbi to conduct services.

What part of the populace does not  identify with conformists religious  majority?

7% of the population identifies as Christian; 4% as Muslim; 1% follows traditional animistic beliefs; and 2% follow other religions

Are these percentages an accurate estimate of nonconformists religious  groups ?

international religious freedom report, official statistics are alleged to underestimate the non-Buddhist population.

How many dwelling are dedicated to the worship of the faith Jehovah's Witnesses ?

80 congregations around the country and a branch office in Yangon

How many dialects are the publications distributed by the Jehovah Witness available in ?

16 languages

What problem presented itself to the Jewish locale in Rangoon ?

a synagogue but no resident rabbi to conduct services


The educational system of Myanmar is operated by the government agency, the Ministry of Education. The education system is based on the United Kingdom's system due to nearly a century of British and Christian presences in Myanmar. Nearly all schools are government-operated, but there has been a recent increase in privately funded English language schools. Schooling is compulsory until the end of elementary school, approximately about 9 years old, while the compulsory schooling age is 15 or 16 at international level.

Who runs the school system in Myanmar ?

the Ministry of Education

What country is Burma to credit for its academic system ?

United Kingdom's

Why is this country so influential to the Burma academics ?

due to nearly a century of British and Christian presences in Myanmar.

Are there any alternatives to the public school system in Burma ?

privately funded English language schoo

Are children required to go to school or can they choose to stay at home and work ?

Schooling is compulsory until the end of elementary school


A diverse range of indigenous cultures exist in Myanmar, the majority culture is primarily Buddhist and Bamar. Bamar culture has been influenced by the cultures of neighbouring countries. This is manifested in its language, cuisine, music, dance and theatre. The arts, particularly literature, have historically been influenced by the local form of Theravada Buddhism. Considered the national epic of Myanmar, the Yama Zatdaw, an adaptation of India's Ramayana, has been influenced greatly by Thai, Mon, and Indian versions of the play. Buddhism is practised along with nat worship, which involves elaborate rituals to propitiate one from a pantheon of 37 nats.

What are the pervasive culture that is sanctioned in Burma ?

the majority culture is primarily Buddhist and Bamar.

Have these cultures developed on there own over time ?

Bamar culture has been influenced by the cultures of neighbouring countries

What type of effect did Theravada Buddhism.have on Bamar?

The arts, particularly literature, have historically been influenced by the local form of Theravada Buddhism

What is the connection between an insect that has devotional following and Buddhism ?

Buddhism is practised along with nat worship, which involves elaborate rituals to propitiate one from a pantheon of 37 nats.


In a traditional village, the monastery is the centre of cultural life. Monks are venerated and supported by the lay people. A novitiation ceremony called shinbyu is the most important coming of age events for a boy, during which he enters the monastery for a short time. All male children in Buddhist families are encouraged to be a novice (beginner for Buddhism) before the age of twenty and to be a monk after the age of twenty. Girls have ear-piercing ceremonies (နားသ) at the same time. Burmese culture is most evident in villages where local festivals are held throughout the year, the most important being the pagoda festival. Many villages have a guardian nat, and superstition and taboos are commonplace.

Customarily where is the expected place in the lives of the people for the home of monks in Burma ?

In a traditional village, the monastery is the centre of cultural life.

What event is exceedingly relevant for young males that involves monks in Burma ?

A novitiation ceremony called shinbyu

What do girls of the village get in comparison the the young male event ?

Girls have ear-piercing ceremonies (နားသ) at the same time.

What is the biggest celebration held in local events in Burma ?

the most important being the pagoda festival

What do many villages have that protects them in times of imminent or impending danger ?

Many villages have a guardian nat


British colonial rule introduced Western elements of culture to Burma. Burma's education system is modelled after that of the United Kingdom. Colonial architectural influences are most evident in major cities such as Yangon. Many ethnic minorities, particularly the Karen in the southeast and the Kachin and Chin who populate the north and northeast, practice Christianity. According to the The World Factbook, the Burman population is 68% and the ethnic groups constitute 32%. However, the exiled leaders and organisations claims that ethnic population is 40%, which is implicitly contrasted with CIA report (official US report).

What evidence of previous rule is evident in the buildings in Burma ?

Colonial architectural influences are most evident in major cities

What part of the Burmese population is considered not a part of the mainstream group?

ethnic groups constitute 32%

Do opinions differ on the numbers for that population is considered not a part of the mainstream

exiled leaders and organisations claims that ethnic population is 40%, which is implicitly contrasted with CIA report (official US report).

What is the name of the group that reported the information regarding the populace in Burma ?

The World Factbook


Mohinga is the traditional breakfast dish and is Myanmar's national dish. Seafood is a common ingredient in coastal cities such as Sittwe, Kyaukpyu, Mawlamyaing (formerly Moulmein), Mergui (Myeik) and Dawei, while meat and poultry are more commonly used in landlocked cities like Mandalay. Freshwater fish and shrimp have been incorporated into inland cooking as a primary source of protein and are used in a variety of ways, fresh, salted whole or filleted, salted and dried, made into a salty paste, or fermented sour and pressed.

What is the time-honored dish served for the morning meal in Burma ?

Mohinga is the traditional breakfast dish

What is most commonly enjoyed to eat along the coast of Myanmar ?

Seafood is a common ingredient in coastal cities

Where is the most chicken enjoyed in Burma ?

landlocked cities

What is considered as an alternative to tofu for the valuable ingredient it holds for those not living near water in BUrma?

Freshwater fish and shrimp have been incorporated into inland cooking as a primary source of protein

What are popular ways that fish are used in Burma ?

fresh, salted whole or filleted, salted and dried, made into a salty paste, or fermented sour and pressed.


Myanmar's first film was a documentary of the funeral of Tun Shein — a leading politician of the 1910s, who campaigned for Burmese independence in London. The first Burmese silent film Myitta Ne Thuya (Love and Liquor) in 1920 which proved a major success, despite its poor quality due to a fixed camera position and inadequate film accessories. During the 1920s and 1930s, many Burmese-owned film companies made and produced several films. The first Burmese sound film was produced in 1932 in Bombay, India with the title Ngwe Pay Lo Ma Ya (Money Can't Buy It). After World War II, Burmese cinema continued to address political themes. Many of the films produced in the early Cold War era had a strong propaganda element to them.

What was the first motion picture about someone's life filmed in Myanmar ?

Myanmar's first film was a documentary of the funeral of Tun Shein

Why was this film relevant enough to be the first ?

Tun Shein — a leading politician of the 1910s, who campaigned for Burmese independence in London.

Before the advent of talking pictures, what was the name of the first movie in Myanmar and when was it 's debut ?

first Burmese silent film Myitta Ne Thuya (Love and Liquor) in 1920

Following the end of the second World War, what was a still a popular theme among films makers in Burma ?

After World War II, Burmese cinema continued to address political themes

Where any of the Burmese films ever used as an instrument to influence the people ?

Many of the films produced in the early Cold War era had a strong propaganda element to them.


Jews originated as a national and religious group in the Middle East during the second millennium BCE, in the part of the Levant known as the Land of Israel. The Merneptah Stele appears to confirm the existence of a people of Israel, associated with the god El, somewhere in Canaan as far back as the 13th century BCE. The Israelites, as an outgrowth of the Canaanite population, consolidated their hold with the emergence of the Kingdom of Israel, and the Kingdom of Judah. Some consider that these Canaanite sedentary Israelites melded with incoming nomadic groups known as 'Hebrews'. Though few sources in the Bible mention the exilic periods in detail, the experience of diaspora life, from the Ancient Egyptian rule over the Levant, to Assyrian Captivity and Exile, to Babylonian Captivity and Exile, to Seleucid Imperial rule, to the Roman occupation, and the historical relations between Israelites and the homeland, became a major feature of Jewish history, identity and memory.

Which group originated as a national and religious group in the Middle East during the second millennium BCE, in the part of the Levant known as the Land of Israel?

Jews

Who consolidated their hold with the emergence of the Kingdom of Israel, and the kingdom of Judah?

Israelites

What were incoming nomadic groups known as?

Hebrews

When did Jews originate as a national and religious group in the Middle East?

during the second millennium BCE, in the part of the Levant known as the Land of Israel

What appears to confirm the existence of a people of Israel?

The Merneptah Stele

What national and religious group originated in the first millennium BCE?

I'm not sure.

What confirms the existence of the Ancient Egyptians?

I'm not sure.

Who was an outgrowth of the Israelite population?

I'm not sure.

What was a major feature of the Babylonian history, identity, and memory?

I'm not sure.

When did the people of Israel cease to be associated with the god El?

I'm not sure.


According to a report published in 2014, about 43% of all Jews reside in Israel (6.1 million), and 40% in the United States (5.7 million), with most of the remainder living in Europe (1.4 million) and Canada (0.4 million). These numbers include all those who self-identified as Jews in a socio-demographic study or were identified as such by a respondent in the same household. The exact world Jewish population, however, is difficult to measure. In addition to issues with census methodology, disputes among proponents of halakhic, secular, political, and ancestral identification factors regarding who is a Jew may affect the figure considerably depending on the source.

What percentage of Jews reside in Israel?

What percentage of Jews reside in the U.S.?

How many Jews live in Europe?

1.4 million

What is one reason the world population of Jews difficult to determine?

issues with census methodology

How many non Jewish people live in Israel?

I'm not sure.

How many non Jewish people live in the United States?

I'm not sure.

Why is the world population of Jews easy to measure?

I'm not sure.

What percentage of non Jews live in the United States?

I'm not sure.

What is not a factor in who is a Jew?

I'm not sure.


The etymological equivalent is in use in other languages, e.g., يَهُودِيّ yahūdī (sg.), al-yahūd (pl.), and بَنُو اِسرَائِيل banū isrāʼīl in Arabic, "Jude" in German, "judeu" in Portuguese, "juif" in French, "jøde" in Danish and Norwegian, "judío" in Spanish, "jood" in Dutch, etc., but derivations of the word "Hebrew" are also in use to describe a Jew, e.g., in Italian (Ebreo), in Persian ("Ebri/Ebrani" (Persian: عبری/عبرانی)) and Russian (Еврей, Yevrey). The German word "Jude" is pronounced [ˈjuːdə], the corresponding adjective "jüdisch" [ˈjyːdɪʃ] (Jewish) is the origin of the word "Yiddish". (See Jewish ethnonyms for a full overview.)

What is the origin of the word Yiddish?

Jude

What is another word to describe a Jew?

Ebreo

What is a Russian word used to describe a Jew?

Еврей, Yevrey

Ebreo is an Italian word derivation of what word?

Hebrew

How do you say Hebrew in German?

I'm not sure.

How do you say Hebrew in Portuguese?

I'm not sure.

How do you say Hebrew in French?

I'm not sure.

What German word is the origin of the word "Hebrew"?

I'm not sure.

How do you say Yiddish in Italian?

I'm not sure.


According to the Hebrew Bible narrative, Jewish ancestry is traced back to the Biblical patriarchs such as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and the Biblical matriarchs Sarah, Rebecca, Leah, and Rachel, who lived in Canaan around the 18th century BCE. Jacob and his family migrated to Ancient Egypt after being invited to live with Jacob's son Joseph by the Pharaoh himself. The patriarchs' descendants were later enslaved until the Exodus led by Moses, traditionally dated to the 13th century BCE, after which the Israelites conquered Canaan.[citation needed]

Name one person that Jewish ancestry traced back to?

Abraham

Where did Jacob and his family migrate to?

Ancient Egypt

Who led the Exodus?

Moses

Who was Jacob's son?

Joseph

Who was Joseph's father?

Jacob

Who lived in Canaan before the 18th century BCE?

I'm not sure.

Who invited the Pharaoh to live in Egypt?

I'm not sure.

When did Canaan conquer the Israelites?

I'm not sure.

Who invited Joseph to live in Egypt?

I'm not sure.

How long were the Egyptians enslaved?

I'm not sure.


Modern archaeology has largely discarded the historicity of the Patriarchs and of the Exodus story, with it being reframed as constituting the Israelites' inspiring national myth narrative. The Israelites and their culture, according to the modern archaeological account, did not overtake the region by force, but instead branched out of the Canaanite peoples and culture through the development of a distinct monolatristic — and later monotheistic — religion centered on Yahweh, one of the Ancient Canaanite deities. The growth of Yahweh-centric belief, along with a number of cultic practices, gradually gave rise to a distinct Israelite ethnic group, setting them apart from other Canaanites. The Canaanites themselves are archeologically attested in the Middle Bronze Age, while the Hebrew language is the last extant member of the Canaanite languages. In the Iron Age I period (1200–1000 BCE) Israelite culture was largely Canaanite in nature.

Which culture was largely Canaanite in nature?

Israelite

What is one of the Ancient Canaanite deities?

Yahweh

The period of time from 1200 to 1000 BCE is known as what?

Iron Age

How has historical archaeology treated the historicity of the Patriarchs?

I'm not sure.

How did the Israelites take over the region according to historical archaeology?

I'm not sure.

What god did the Ancient Canaanites not worship?

I'm not sure.

The period of time before 1200 BCE is known as what?

I'm not sure.

What gave rise to a distinct Canaanite ethnic group?

I'm not sure.


Although the Israelites were divided into Twelve Tribes, the Jews (being one offshoot of the Israelites, another being the Samaritans) are traditionally said to descend mostly from the Israelite tribes of Judah (from where the Jews derive their ethnonym) and Benjamin, and partially from the tribe of Levi, who had together formed the ancient Kingdom of Judah, and the remnants of the northern Kingdom of Israel who migrated to the Kingdom of Judah and assimilated after the 720s BCE, when the Kingdom of Israel was conquered by the Neo-Assyrian Empire.

What group was divided into Twelve Tribes?

Israelites

When was the Kingdom of Israel conquered by the Neo-Assyrian Empire?

after the 720s BCE

From where do the Jews derive their ethonynm?

Israelite tribes of Judah

How many tribes were the Samaritans split into?

I'm not sure.

Who do the tribes of Judah descend from?

I'm not sure.

Where did the Southern Kingdom of Israel migrate to?

I'm not sure.

Who assimilated before the 720s BCE?

I'm not sure.

When did the Kingdom of Israel conquer the Neo-Assyrian Empire?

I'm not sure.


Israelites enjoyed political independence twice in ancient history, first during the periods of the Biblical judges followed by the United Monarchy.[disputed – discuss] After the fall of the United Monarchy the land was divided into Israel and Judah. The term Jew originated from the Roman "Judean" and denoted someone from the southern kingdom of Judah. The shift of ethnonym from "Israelites" to "Jews" (inhabitant of Judah), although not contained in the Torah, is made explicit in the Book of Esther (4th century BCE), a book in the Ketuvim, the third section of the Jewish Tanakh. In 587 BC Nebuchadnezzar II, King of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, besieged Jerusalem, destroyed the First Temple, and deported the most prominent citizens of Judah. In 586 BC, Judah itself ceased to be an independent kingdom, and its remaining Jews were left stateless. The Babylonian exile ended in 539 BCE when the Achaemenid Empire conquered Babylon and Cyrus the Great allowed the exiled Jews to return to Yehud and rebuild their Temple. The Second Temple was completed in 515 BCE. Yehud province was a peaceful part of the Achaemenid Empire until the fall of the Empire in c. 333 BCE to Alexander the Great. Jews were also politically independent during the Hasmonean dynasty spanning from 140 to 37 BCE and to some degree under the Herodian dynasty from 37 BCE to 6 CE. Since the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, most Jews have lived in diaspora. As an ethnic minority in every country in which they live (except Israel), they have frequently experienced persecution throughout history, resulting in a population that has fluctuated both in numbers and distribution over the centuries.[citation needed]

How many times did Israelites have political independence in ancient history?

twice

From where did the term Jews originate?

Roman "Judean

When was land divided into Israel and Judah?

After the fall of the United Monarchy

Inhabitants of Judah are known as what?

Jews

When did the Babylonian exile end?

539 BCE

How many times did Israelites enjoy political independence in modern times?

I'm not sure.

What term denoted someone from the northern kingdom of Judah?

I'm not sure.

When did Nebuchadnezzar II build the First Temple?

I'm not sure.

When did Judah first become an independent kingdom?

I'm not sure.

When did most Jews stop living in diaspora?

I'm not sure.


Genetic studies on Jews show that most Jews worldwide bear a common genetic heritage which originates in the Middle East, and that they bear their strongest resemblance to the peoples of the Fertile Crescent. The genetic composition of different Jewish groups shows that Jews share a common genetic pool dating back 4,000 years, as a marker of their common ancestral origin. Despite their long-term separation and beside their shared genetic origin, Jews also maintained a common culture, tradition, and language.

Genetic studies show that Jews bear their strongest resemblance to the peoples of where?

Fertile Crescent

How far back does the Jews' shared common genetic pool date?

4,000 years

Most Jews share a common genetic heritage that originates from what place?

Middle East

What people do Jews show the least genetic resemblance to?

I'm not sure.

How far back does the people of the Fertile Crescent's shared genetic pool date?

I'm not sure.

Most people of the Fertile Crescent share a common heritage that originates from where?

I'm not sure.

What do people of the Fertile Crescent share besides genetics?

I'm not sure.

What is one thing that Jews were not able to maintain?

I'm not sure.


The Hebrew Bible, a religious interpretation of the traditions and early national history of the Jews, established the first of the Abrahamic religions, which are now practiced by 54% of the world. Judaism guides its adherents in both practice and belief, and has been called not only a religion, but also a "way of life," which has made drawing a clear distinction between Judaism, Jewish culture, and Jewish identity rather difficult. Throughout history, in eras and places as diverse as the ancient Hellenic world, in Europe before and after The Age of Enlightenment (see Haskalah), in Islamic Spain and Portugal, in North Africa and the Middle East, India, China, or the contemporary United States and Israel, cultural phenomena have developed that are in some sense characteristically Jewish without being at all specifically religious. Some factors in this come from within Judaism, others from the interaction of Jews or specific communities of Jews with their surroundings, others from the inner social and cultural dynamics of the community, as opposed to from the religion itself. This phenomenon has led to considerably different Jewish cultures unique to their own communities, each as authentically Jewish as the next.

What book is considered a religious interpretation of the traditions and early national history of the Jews?

The Hebrew Bible

What religions are now practiced by 54% of the world?

Abrahamic religions

What is the Hebrew Bible?

a religious interpretation of the traditions and early national history of the Jews

What is a religious interpretation of the traditions and history of Europe?

I'm not sure.

What is not practiced by 54% of the world?

I'm not sure.

Where have Jewish culture phenomena never developed?

I'm not sure.

What percentage of the world does not follow an Abrahamic religion?

I'm not sure.

Where have specifically religious Jewish customs developed?

I'm not sure.


Judaism shares some of the characteristics of a nation, an ethnicity, a religion, and a culture, making the definition of who is a Jew vary slightly depending on whether a religious or national approach to identity is used. Generally, in modern secular usage Jews include three groups: people who were born to a Jewish family regardless of whether or not they follow the religion, those who have some Jewish ancestral background or lineage (sometimes including those who do not have strictly matrilineal descent), and people without any Jewish ancestral background or lineage who have formally converted to Judaism and therefore are followers of the religion.

In modern secular usage Jews include how many groups?

three

What makes the definition of a Jew vary slightly?

whether a religious or national approach to identity is used

Which religion shares some characteristics of a nation, an ethnicity, a religion and a culture?

Judaism

What doesn't share any characteristics with a nation?

I'm not sure.

How many groups do Jews include in modern religious usage?

I'm not sure.

How many groups do Jews include in historical secular usage?

I'm not sure.

Who is not included as a Jew in modern secular usage?

I'm not sure.

What has no effect on the definition of who is a Jew?

I'm not sure.


Historical definitions of Jewish identity have traditionally been based on halakhic definitions of matrilineal descent, and halakhic conversions. Historical definitions of who is a Jew date back to the codification of the Oral Torah into the Babylonian Talmud, around 200 CE. Interpretations of sections of the Tanakh, such as Deuteronomy 7:1–5, by Jewish sages, are used as a warning against intermarriage between Jews and Canaanites because "[the non-Jewish husband] will cause your child to turn away from Me and they will worship the gods (i.e., idols) of others." Leviticus 24:10 says that the son in a marriage between a Hebrew woman and an Egyptian man is "of the community of Israel." This is complemented by Ezra 10:2–3, where Israelites returning from Babylon vow to put aside their gentile wives and their children. Since the anti-religious Haskalah movement of the late 18th and 19th centuries, halakhic interpretations of Jewish identity have been challenged.

What have historical definitions of Jewish identity been based on?

halakhic definitions of matrilineal descent, and halakhic conversions

Historical definitions of who a Jew is dates back to what year?

200 CE

What is used as a warning against intermarriage between Jews and Canaanites?

Jewish sages

What have historical definitions of Jewish identity never been based on?

I'm not sure.

When was the Babylonian Talmud codified into the Oral Torah?

I'm not sure.

What section of the Tanakh encouraged intermarriage?

I'm not sure.

What movement in the 18th and 19th centuries was pro religious?

I'm not sure.

What interpretations of Jewish identity have never been challenged?

I'm not sure.


According to historian Shaye J. D. Cohen, the status of the offspring of mixed marriages was determined patrilineally in the Bible. He brings two likely explanations for the change in Mishnaic times: first, the Mishnah may have been applying the same logic to mixed marriages as it had applied to other mixtures (Kil'ayim). Thus, a mixed marriage is forbidden as is the union of a horse and a donkey, and in both unions the offspring are judged matrilineally. Second, the Tannaim may have been influenced by Roman law, which dictated that when a parent could not contract a legal marriage, offspring would follow the mother.

Who believed the status of the offspring of mixed marriages was determined patrilineally in the Bible?

Shaye J. D. Cohen

What dictated that when a parent could not contract a legal marriage, offspring would follow the mother?

Roman law

What is one explanation for the change in Mishnaic times?

the Mishnah may have been applying the same logic to mixed marriages as it had applied to other mixtures

Who believed that the status of offspring of mixed marriages was determined matrilineally in the Bible?

I'm not sure.

How many explanations were there for the lack of change in Mishnaic times?

I'm not sure.

What dictated that when a parent could not contract a legal marriage, offspring would follow the father?

I'm not sure.

What did Roman law dictate if a parent contracted a legal marriage?

I'm not sure.

What unions were allowed along with mixed marriages?

I'm not sure.


By the 1st century, Babylonia, to which Jews migrated to after the Babylonian conquest as well as after the Bar Kokhba revolt in 135 CE, already held a speedily growing population of an estimated 1,000,000 Jews, which increased to an estimated 2 million  between the years 200 CE – 500 CE, both by natural growth and by immigration of more Jews from the Land of Israel, making up about 1/6 of the world Jewish population at that era. At times conversion has accounted for a part of Jewish population growth. Some have claimed that in the 1st century of the Christian era, for example, the population more than doubled, from four to 8–10 million within the confines of the Roman Empire, in good part as a result of a wave of conversion.

Where did Jews migrate to after the Babylonian conquest?

Babylonia

Between what years did Jews increase to an estimated 2 million?

200 CE – 500 CE

Name one thing that has accounted for Jewish population growth?

conversion

Where did the Jews migrate to before the Babylonian conquest?

I'm not sure.

How many Jews lived in Babylonia before the 1st century?

I'm not sure.

How many Jews lived in Babylonia after 500 CE?

I'm not sure.

How did the Jewish population increase before the 1st century?

I'm not sure.

How many Jews lived outside of the Roman Empire?

I'm not sure.