UGEC2020 History of Macau: The Encounter of Eastern and Western Cultures

Macau is renowned for its gaming industry, yet it is also the place where East meets West. After more than three centuries of social evolution and cultural exchange, which attributes to Macau’s social diversity and valuable cultural heritage. This course will be divided into two parts. Part I traces and examines the development of Macau from a historical perspective, foster students an understanding of the contexts that shape the society and culture of the city from the past to the present, and how these contexts served as obstacles or opportunities in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Part II exposes students to selected themes, including ethnic relations, economic activities, religious and cultural exchange, heritage conservation, etc., exploring Macau’s social diversity and cultural inclusiveness, and examine their relevance to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG#8 Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG#10 Reducing Inequality and SDG#11 Sustainable Cities and Communities.