SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND NATION

BUILDING
GROUP 1
 Our Team

Kish Harvei Dinford Tuyan Aiman Gorgonio

Glaraga
Earl Patrick Boco Lean Mark Francisco
 Topic
Topic 1: PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD

Topic 2: COLONIAL PERIOD

Topic 3: POST-COLONIAL PERIOD

 Topic 1: PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD

Science, Technology, and Nation-Building" in the pre-colonial period

represents how scientific knowledge and technological innovations
contributed to the growth, organization, and cultural development of
indigenous societies before the influence of colonial powers. These
elements were interconnected and played a vital role in shaping the pre-
colonial world and the societies that thrived within it.
BRIEF HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
IN THE PRE-COLONIAL WORLD HIGHLIGHTS SOME KEY
DEVELOPMENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS ACROSS DIFFERENT
REGIONS
Mesopotamia and Ancient Near East (circa 3500-500 BCE)

1.
The cradle of civilization, Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), saw the emergence of
early writing systems like cuneiform and advancements in mathematics for
purposes like land measurement and architecture.
Technologies such as the wheel, plow, and irrigation systems revolutionized
agriculture and enabled the growth of urban centers like Ur and Babylon.

Ancient Egypt (circa 3100-332 BCE):

2.
Ancient Egypt made significant contributions to science and technology,
including the construction of the pyramids and other architectural marvels.
The Egyptians developed a solar calendar, advanced knowledge of geometry
for land surveying, and medical practices, which laid the foundation for later
developments in these fields.
 Indus Valley Civilization (circa 3300-1300 BCE):

3
The Indus Valley Civilization, centered in what is now modern-day India and
Pakistan, had advanced urban planning, sewage systems, and a written script
that remains undeciphered.
Their knowledge of metallurgy allowed for the production of copper and
bronze artifacts.

Ancient China (circa 2000 BCE onward):

4
Ancient China contributed to science and technology with inventions like
papermaking, printing, the compass, and gunpowder.
Agricultural innovations, such as the plow, waterwheel, and efficient farming
techniques, boosted food production.

Ancient Greece (circa 8th century BCE onward):

5
Ancient Greece laid the foundation for Western philosophy and scientific
thought, with scholars like Pythagoras, Euclid, and Aristotle making significant
contributions.
Greek mathematicians developed the concept of the scientific method, which
would influence later scientific inquiry.
 Mesoamerica (Maya, Aztec, and Inca civilizations):

6
The Maya civilization excelled in mathematics and astronomy, developing a
complex calendar system and constructing observatories to track celestial
events.
The Inca empire built an extensive road network and used advanced
engineering techniques like stone masonry without mortar.

African Kingdoms:

7
Various African kingdoms, such as the Kingdom of Axum in modern-day
Ethiopia and the Mali Empire, developed advanced metalworking, architecture,
and agricultural practices.
Axumites pioneered the use of coinage and developed a script.

Indigenous Peoples:

8
Indigenous societies around the world had rich traditional knowledge systems,
including herbal medicine, ecological wisdom, and sustainable land use
practices.
They had sophisticated techniques for hunting, fishing, and craftsmanship.
 Conclusion
These pre-colonial civilizations and societies made
remarkable strides in science and technology, contributing
to the development of human knowledge and setting the
stage for further advancements in the centuries to come.
Unfortunately, the impact of colonialism disrupted many
of these indigenous knowledge systems and technologies,
leading to their decline or suppression in favor of European
colonial powers' systems and technologies.
 Topic 2: COLONIAL PERIOD

Science and technology were significantly impacted during the

Colonial Period, which is the time when European nations
founded colonies in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The colonial
period in North America, especially in the 17th and 18th centuries,
lasted for several centuries, depending on the particular
colonial power and location.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
IN THE COLONIAL PERIOD

1
Exploration and Navigation
Beginning in the late 15th century with individuals like Christopher Columbus
and Vasco da Gama, the Age of Exploration was a crucial time for the
development of science and technology. Long-distance expeditions and the
founding of colonial lands were made possible by improvements in
navigational methods, such as the astrolabe and better maps.

Natural History and Botany

2
The natural resources of recently discovered areas were of interest to colonial
powers. Natural history and botany as academic disciplines grew as a result of
this. The categorization and classification of the New World's flora and fauna were
made possible by scientists and explorers like Carl Linnaeus and Sir Joseph Banks.
 Medicine

3
The discovery of novel diseases by European invaders in the Americas, Africa, and Asia
sparked research into and attempts to treat these ailments. Both beneficial and
detrimental effects resulted from the transfer of medical knowledge between the Old
and New Worlds. Smallpox and other illnesses decimated indigenous people as new
medicines and cures were developed.

Agriculture

4
The Columbian Exchange promoted the exchange of agricultural techniques and crops
between the Old and New Worlds. The impact of this transaction on world agriculture
was significant. While native crops like maize and potatoes were introduced to Europe
and other areas of the world, Europeans introduced wheat, rice, and sugarcane to the
Americas.

Industrial Revolution

5
The late 18th and 19th centuries saw the Industrial Revolution in Europe, marked
by the mechanization of industries, leading to significant technological
advancements, such as steam engines, textile machinery, and the development of
railways.
6
Advancements in Navigation
Improved navigational tools, such as the astrolabe and later the sextant, enabled more
accurate sea voyages. The discovery of the magnetic compass also facilitated safer
long-distance travel.

7
Scientific Revolution
The 17th century witnessed the Scientific Revolution, characterized by advancements in
astronomy, physics, and mathematics. Prominent figures like Galileo Galilei, Johannes
Kepler, and Isaac Newton made groundbreaking contributions.

8
Knowledge Transfer
The colonial period facilitated the exchange of knowledge and technologies between
different parts of the world. However, this knowledge transfer was often asymmetric,
benefiting colonial powers more than the colonies.
 Conclusion
The colonial period marked important scientific and
technical advances that helped shape the contemporary
world. These accomplishments, however, were frequently
tainted by exploitation, inequity, and cultural subjugation.
Recognizing this dual history emphasizes the significance of
ethical scientific methods and fair information sharing in
modern society. We must aim for responsible advancement,
ensuring that the advantages of science and technology are
inclusive and justly dispersed, as we have done in the past.
 Topic 3: POST-COLONIAL PERIOD

The post-colonial period refers to the time after countries

gained independence from their colonial rulers. This period
varies across different regions and countries, but broadly
speaking, it ranges from the mid-20th century to the present
day. Science and technology during the post-colonial period
have been significantly influenced by the historical legacies of
colonialism, struggles for independence, and efforts to develop
indigenous scientific and technological capacities.
 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE POST-COLONIAL WORLD

Immediate Post-Independence (mid-20th century - 1960s):

1.
Many former colonies gained independence from European powers after World
War II. This period was marked by the establishment of new governments and a
focus on nation-building.
Nations began to invest in education, infrastructure, and industries to promote
economic development and technological growth.

Import Substitution Industrialization (1950s - 1970s):

2.
Many newly independent countries adopted import substitution industrialization
policies, aiming to reduce dependency on foreign goods by developing their own
industries.
Governments invested in key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and
infrastructure to achieve self-sufficiency and promote economic growth.
 Green Revolution (1950s - 1970s):

3
The Green Revolution was a significant period of agricultural transformation,
employing modern farming techniques, technology, and crop varieties to increase
agricultural productivity and address food security challenges.

4
Information and Communication Technology (1980s - 2000s):
The advent of the information age brought a significant shift towards
information technology and communication technologies (ICTs).
Developing countries started investing in ICT infrastructure and education to
participate in the global digital economy.

Globalization and Economic Liberalization (1980s - 2000s):

5
Many countries embraced market-oriented economic policies and opened up their
markets to foreign investments and trade, aiming for economic growth and
development.
This period saw a significant increase in international collaborations, technology
transfers, and integration into the global economy.
 Sustainable Development (late 20th century - present):

6
Growing environmental concerns and awareness led to a focus on sustainable
development, integrating economic growth with environmental protection and
social equity.
Governments and organizations began investing in renewable energy, sustainable
agriculture, and eco-friendly technologies to address pressing global challenges.

Biotechnology and Medical Advancements (late 20th century - present):

7
Advances in biotechnology, genetics, and medicine have revolutionized
healthcare, agriculture, and industry.
Many countries have invested in research and development in these fields to
improve healthcare outcomes, enhance food security, and foster innovation.

Space Exploration and Technology (late 20th century - present):

8
Many countries, including emerging economies, have ventured into space
exploration and satellite technology, marking significant progress in their
scientific and technological capabilities.
 Conclusion
In the post-colonial period, science and technology have played
pivotal roles in the nation-building processes of formerly
colonized countries. This era has been characterized by efforts
to reclaim autonomy, nurture indigenous expertise, and harness
technological advancements to accelerate development and
improve the overall well-being of their populations.