**General Terms:**
* 歴史 (rekishi): history
* 古代 (kodai): ancient times, antiquity
* 昔 (mukashi): old times, in the past
* 過去 (kako): past
**People:**
* 王 (ō): king
* 王朝 (ōchō): dynasty, reign
* 武士 (bushi): samurai warrior
* 民族 (minzoku): ethnicity, people
**Places:**
* 城 (shiro): castle
* 都 (miyako): capital (ancient)
* 遺跡 (iseki): ruins, archeological site
* 墓 (haka): tomb
**Concepts:**
* 文化 (bunka): culture
* 伝統 (dentō): tradition
* 文明 (bunmei): civilization
* 発掘 (hakken): excavation (archaeological)
**Phrases:**
* 歴史を学ぶ (rekishi wo manabu): to learn history
* 古代の日本 (kodai no nihon): ancient Japan
* 昔の生活 (mukashi no seikatsu): life in the old days
* 過去の出来事 (kako no dekigoto): past events
**Bonus:**
* 神話 (shinwa): mythology
* 伝説 (densetsu): legend
2. Today's topic
Okinawa's history(沖縄の歴史）
Okinawa's history is a fascinating blend of independence, strategic alliances, and complex relationships with larger powers.
**Early History:**
* Inhabited for thousands of years, Okinawa boasts a rich prehistoric past.
**Ryukyu Kingdom (1429-1879):**
* This golden age saw the rise of a powerful kingdom ruling Okinawa.
* The Ryukyu Kingdom thrived as a maritime hub, trading with China, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
* They skillfully maintained a tributary relationship with both China and Japan, acknowledging their authority while retaining some autonomy.
**Japanese Influence (1609-1879):**
* Although the Ryukyu Kingdom remained nominally independent, Japan's influence grew after the 1609 invasion.
**Modern Japan (1879-1945):**
* Okinawa was formally annexed by Japan in the late 19th century, becoming Okinawa Prefecture.
* Okinawan culture and identity faced assimilation pressures.
**World War II and US Occupation (1945-1972):**
* Okinawa witnessed a brutal battle in World War II, resulting in devastating losses.
* After the war, the US controlled Okinawa for 27 years, maintaining a significant military presence.
**Reversion to Japan (1972-Present):**
* In 1972, Okinawa was finally returned to Japanese control.
* The legacy of US military presence and the desire to preserve Okinawan culture remain ongoing issues.
3- Today’s news
Okinawa visitors witness Shuri-jo restoration work in progress
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15223607
Five years after a devastating fire, the roofs of Shuri-jo Castle’s main hall are taking shape as reconstruction progresses on the iconic landmark here.
Shurijo Castle News
https://oki-park.jp/shurijo/en/info/
Shuri Castle, also known as Shurijo Castle (首里城, Shuri-jō), is a Ryukyuan gusuku castle located in Shuri, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
* **History:** Built in the late 14th century, it served as the administrative center and residence of the Ryukyu Kingdom's kings for centuries .
* **Significance:** A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shuri Castle symbolizes the Ryukyu Kingdom's history and culture [Okinawa Shurijo Castle Park].
* **Current Status:** Unfortunately, the castle buildings were destroyed by fire in 2000. However, reconstruction efforts are ongoing, and the park surrounding the castle is open to visitors.
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