A History of Tibet & the 13th Dalai Lama’s Flag Video with Robert AF Thurman
This video gives a brief introduction to the history of the Himalayas, the Tibetan Flag, Tibet’s relationship with China and the Dalai Lama‘s long time view on the issue. Recorded on the centennial of Tibet’s declaration of independence in 1913 at Tibet House US in New York City.
Video includes an in depth explanation of the flag created by the 13th Dalai Lama of Tibet in 1916 as a symbol of Tibetan Independence + historical sovereignty.
“During the time of Genghis Khan and Altan Khan of the Mongols, the Ming dynasty of the Chinese, and the Ch’ing Dynasty of the Manchus, Tibet and China cooperated on the basis of benefactor and priest relationship. A few years ago, the Chinese authorities in Szechuan and Yunnan endeavored to colonize our territory. They brought large numbers of troops into central Tibet on the pretext of policing the trade marts. I, therefore, left Lhasa with my ministers for the Indo-Tibetan border, hoping to clarify to the Manchu emperor by wire that the existing relationship between Tibet and China had been that of patron and priest and had not been based on the subordination of one to the other. There was no other choice for me but to cross the border, because Chinese troops were following with the intention of taking me alive or dead.
Peace and happiness in this world can only be maintained by preserving the faith of Buddhism. It is, therefore, essential to preserve all Buddhist institutions in Tibet, such as the Jokhang temple and Ramoche in Lhasa, Samye, and Traduk in southern Tibet, and the three great monasteries, etc.
In view of past invasions by foreigners, our people may have to face certain difficulties, which they must disregard. To safeguard and maintain the independence of our country, one and all should voluntarily work hard. Our subjects must not create major clashes between two nations because of minor incidents.”
13th Dalai Lama Declaration of Tibetan Independence, 1913
“History of Tibetan Independence + the 13th Dalai Lama’s Flag” is an excerpt from a film made at “Independent Tibet” Exhibition at Tibet House February 2013, Produced by John DiLeva Halpern.
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? Music by Tenzin Choegyal, Used with Permission www.tenzinchoegyal.com
