14 Things to Never Say About a Country’s History While Traveling Abroad
Traveling to a new country can be an exciting journey and there are many things to see about different cultures and histories, however, It’s important to tread carefully when talking about a country’s history. Sometimes seemingly innocent comments can be offensive if they ignore the intricacies of the country’s history and struggles.
Respecting the local culture and history is polite and essential for maintaining good relationships with locals. A few words in conversation can completely change how people see you as a character and can taint your experience. Here are some phrases best left unsaid when discussing a country’s history to help maintain good relations and foster enriching exchanges.
“Here in the Past, Things Were Better”
People often evoke the good old days to suggest the present situation is worse, but for locals who are proud of their country’s progress and present status that might not be something they’ll welcome. A 2019 study by the Cultural Awareness International said that comments such as these can reduce tourists’ social interactions with the locals by 30%.
“It Could Have Been Much Worse. Our Country Handled This Better”
It is arrogant to compare historical events or figures unfavorably against events and figures of your own country. Statements of this kind diminish the experience of the local people and can be read as nationalistic or even imperialistic. Better to keep such comparisons to yourself and to encourage a more appreciative dialogue.
“Was That Just a Minor Event?”
Mocking any genuine historical event, especially if there was conflict or suffering involved, in any way possible is an offensive minimum. History is often something we take pride in as a nation and it gives us a sense of our national identity. What might seem like no big deal to outsiders can be foundational to someone else’s sense of self and community.
‘It Reads That This Country Is Always on the Wrong Side of History’
To accuse a nation of always being on the wrong side of history is to reduce a historical narrative that may be complex in the extreme and erase the variety of opinions present within a country. History books are often written from a certain perspective so it is quite possible that what you’ve read doesn’t tell the full story.
“It Reminds Me of [Another Country], Doesn’t It?”
One country’s history should not be equated with another’s. The happenings in each nation’s history are unique. These sorts of comparisons trivialize a nation’s distinct cultural and historical identity.
“Why Hasn’t Your Country Moved On?”
It’s insensitive to ask why a country hasn’t ‘moved on’ from historical grievances or events. Recovery and reconciliation can’t be rushed or neglected and can take generations. This comment sounds dismissive of the country’s work to heal and grow.
“This Must Be a Sensitive Topic”
If you point out that something might be a sensitive topic, you risk drawing attention to painful parts of a nation’s history. It’s best to leave discussions of complex historical issues to your hosts. So, be respectful if they do open up about these things, and learn.
“No One in My Country Cares About This”
Pointing out your homeland’s lack of interest in a key part of another country’s history can be incredibly disrespectful and suggests that your country might be superior or indifferent to what may be a crucial part of another’s national identity.
“My Country Helped You, You’re Lucky”
Not only is this sort of statement patronizing, but it also ignores a nation’s accomplishments and sacrifices. Reducing complex international relationships to simple transactions can be very offensive.
“It’s Not Like Our History Which Is Ancient”
To dismiss a country’s history because it is not as ‘old’ as yours is to deny the value of that history and its effect on the local people and possibly the world. All histories are meaningful, but the historical depth varies.
‘It’s Just a Version of History’
Questioning the validity of a nation’s historical narrative can feel much like questioning the truth itself; questioning the education system or intellectual integrity of the nation. However, it’s best not to claim one ‘true’ version of many historical events from multiple perspectives.
“Isn’t That Just a Legend?”
Some historical accounts are so deeply interwoven into national identity that some elements may become myths or legends. It wouldn’t be right to dismiss these as mere fables, even if you don’t believe them, because it is part of the community’s heritage and storytelling tradition.
“You Would Think You’d Be More Like Your Neighbor”
You could stir up local rivalries or old resentments when you compare a country’s history or development to a neighboring nation. This could turn a pleasant conversation into a heated and ugly debate.
“Your History Is So Exotic”
Tying a country’s history to an exotic label means framing this history as strange or otherworldly, which exoticizes and marginalizes the cultural experience of that country. Don’t otherize — be genuinely interested and curious about what their historical narrative is and how they feel about being a part of the historical narratives that you are aware of.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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