Past Perfect in Present Tense: Dimen village, Guizhou, China

The people of Dimen village have lived without much change in the mountains of Guizhou in China for centuries. Called "fossils of Chinese civilization," Dimen people lead the simple, uncomplicated but hard lives of pre-industrial societies. They grow their rice and tend their stock the way they have always done. They make their clothes and build their own home. They sing wherever they go and are happy with the little they have.

Now progress, globalization and tourism threaten this secluded piece of history. Villagers are struggling to maintain their own identity and livelihood while improving their standard of living. Many leave to work in factories elsewhere. Satellite TV, cell phones and easier access has brought in mainstream Chinese culture. The government built stone walkways and open sewage system so that outsiders would not be offended and plans to build a railroad to bring tourists in.

Elderly masters carry much of the knowledge and history of the people. When they die, their skills will be forgotten. There is no way of turning the time back but there is still time to protect and preserve what is left.

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• China
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• Guizhou
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