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mary kariuki

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If you have NEVER been to Africa, when someone mentions "Africa" or you hear "Africa", what is the FIRST thing that comes into your mind?

People associate different regions/continent based on media, informational material, myths, stereotypes and such. The main idea of this discussion is to find out what people who never had "first hand experience" think about the continent. Thanks for your contribution.

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    edward long 100+

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    Mar 21 2013: Political turmoil. Warlords. Poverty. Genocide. Carpetbaggers. Exploitation from within and without. Astonishing natural wealth. Extraordinary God-given abilities in Art, Music, and Athletics. Limitless potential.
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      mary kariuki

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      Mar 22 2013: Dear Edward,

      I totally agree with your summation of what Africa is......I just hope that African will become aware of our limitless potential and get enlightened. As for Athletics...I can virtually learning 300 miles /second ( I am Kenyan...lol)...

      What is Carpetbaggers?

      Love,
      Mary
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        edward long 100+

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        Mar 22 2013: Hello Mary- "Carpetbaggers" (a plural term) is a contemptuous term describing persons who journey to an area which is in turmoil in quest of easy money, or power. They travel without much luggage so they can disappear quickly if need be, thus the term carpetbag. They are opportunists and exploiters who use questionable ethical methods to get what they want. They have no true desire to bring improvement. You are correct that the African people suffer because they are unaware of how life can be improved with cooperation, education and good, hard work. I tried to avoid stereotyping the African people, I hope you are not offended by my observations. Welcome to TED Conversations and thank you for a relevant question.
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          mary kariuki

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          Mar 23 2013: Thanks for warm welcome. Wish we had virtual coffee we share.
          Oh ...Great insight Edward. If now I think one of my brothers is trying to exhort cash from me..i.e hiking school fees, I will use the big word.."Carpetbaggers" and I bet it will work. Jokes aside, I am grateful for a clear, concise explanation.
          To answer your concern; I am not offended at all. I am open minded person and I appreciate your observations, in fact in my experience there is to much truth to what you have said.

          Love,
          Mary

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