Saving the Union

They say history doesn't repeat itself, but the crackdown by the Chinese Communist government against the patriots in Tibet fighting for independence reminds me of ... another failed attempt at self-determination.

For example, here's a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry condemning Tibet's "peculiar institution" and its affinity for a natural aristocracy. And Tibet's quest for self-government, he says, is an attempt to destroy "national unity." The Chinese central government, on the other hand, presents itself as the force of modernity and liberaton:

Qin made the remarks in response to reporters' question concerning U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's meeting with Dalai Lama on Friday in India.

He called Dalai a "chief representative" for the surf [sic] system and a political refugee engaged in activities of splitting China and destroying national unity, stressing that China firmly opposes to any encouragement or support for the secessionist attempts of Dalai's clique which violate the basic principles of international relations.

As the Chinese Communists regain control over Tibet, they're focusing on young people, who must swear a loyalty oath to the central government:

That battle by China to reassert control over its restive Tibetan population has now drawn in students attending schools and universities in Beijing.

They are required to provide four answers, Tibetan sources told The Times. First, they must write a reply to the question “What position does the Dalai Lama occupy in your heart?” Second, they must provide the address and place of work of their parents. Third, they must give details of their own identity card. Finally, they must guarantee not to take part in any political activities.

Sounds awfully familiar, doesn't it?