ABSTRACT
In order to understand why Tibetans have resisted Chinese rule for forty years, it is necessary to take account of two factors: Tibetan culture, and conditions under the Chinese occupation. While the above quote from Charles Bell may seem a little patronising, it is useful as it serves two purposes. First, it illustrates how Tibetan history has been dominated by religion. Second, it is a perfect example of how outsiders, Western historians and Chinese invaders alike, view Tibet. Religion has often dominated accounts of Tibet, and the Chinese have repeatedly targeted religion during their rule. This chapter will briefly explore the nature of Chinese rule in Tibet, before examining the characteristics of the traditional Tibetan polity, which has now been replaced by Chinese-controlled political bodies. The importance of the characteristics of the Tibetan state in both the downfall of Tibet and continuing resistance to Chinese rule will then be considered.
