Transly Translation Agency’s Post

Once upon a time, on the lush island of Puerto Rico, a tapestry of cultures began to weave its rich history. Originally inhabited by the Taíno people, the island was a paradise of skilled agriculturalists and fishermen. Their lives, deeply connected to the land and sea, flourished with unique traditions and rich spirituality. Everything changed in 1493 when Christopher Columbus set foot on the island during his second voyage to the New World. Over the next centuries, Puerto Rico transformed under Spanish rule. The island became a strategic military outpost, with formidable forts like El Morro and San Cristobal constructed to protect against invaders. The Spanish influence permeated every aspect of life, bringing new architectural styles, language, and customs. However, this era also brought hardship and resilience as the Taíno population dwindled under diseases and conflict, leading to the arrival of African slaves, who would significantly shape the island's cultural fabric. Fast forward to the Spanish-American War in 1898, Puerto Rico's fate was about to change once more. The United States emerged victorious and, under the Treaty of Paris, acquired Puerto Rico. The island's status shifted, and after decades of debates and reforms, Puerto Rico became a U.S. Commonwealth in 1952. This new chapter brought modernization and development, but the island’s vibrant culture, a mosaic of Taíno, African, and Spanish influences, remained at the heart of Puerto Rican identity. Through centuries of transformation, Puerto Rico's enduring spirit continues to shine, a testament to its rich and storied past. 🫶 #puertorican #puertoricansintexas #puertorico #agentesdeseguros #segurosdesaludpuertorico

Most holidays mark historical events or the birthdays of notable persons. Europe Day, however, celebrates something a little different: the birthday of an idea! In 1950, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed a visionary plan to unite European countries through coal and steel production. This "Schuman Declaration" is considered the foundation of the European Union we know today. For me, Europe Day is more than just a historical footnote. As an Italian born in Syracuse—an ancient Greek city—I've always felt a deep connection to the rich tapestry of European history. It wasn't until I moved to Rome at 17 to chase my dream of becoming an interpreter that I truly understood the power of unity. My extensive travels to various European destinations while working for diverse companies and European institutions, including the European Parliament, have given me firsthand experience of the magic that happens when people from diverse backgrounds come together. Europe Day is a celebration of that magic. It’s a day to cherish the peace, unity, and cultural exchange the EU fosters. It’s about being able to hop on a train and explore the breathtaking landscapes of France, savour the culinary delights of Spain, or lose yourself in the history of Greece—all with ease. So, on this Europe Day, let's raise a glass (or a steaming cup of Italian espresso, in my case) to a united Europe, a continent that embraces its rich past while forging a brighter future together. #EuropeDay #EU #UnityInDiversity #EuropeanParliament #Europe #Unity

Some in-depth cultural analysis from your on-the-ground reporter in Tuscany.

WSJ opinion (edited): The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that decline and decay were part of a natural and inevitable process. As a society becomes affluent and powerful, it loses the primitive virtues that made it great. As virtue vanishes from a people, its institutions decay, and ultimately its defenses collapse. Success hastened the decline of the Roman Republic into an absolute monarchy. Institutions developed for a struggling city-state on the banks of the Tiber didn’t work for a state that stretched from modern Belgium to Egypt. Excessive success was also a factor in the decline of Qing-dynasty China. Stronger than all its neighbors, China grew complacent. But while China stood pat, European states were driven by endless wars and rivalries to focus on institutional and technological innovations. By the 19th century, China was shocked to discover it was helpless before the power of the once-despised Westerners. Success isn’t the only cause of decline. Arnold Toynbee argued that civilizations fall when their leaders can no longer command the respect of the masses. The “internal proletariat” of the poor and dispossessed aligns with the “external proletariat” of poor, chaotic outsiders beyond the frontiers, and a once-great civilization comes crashing down. The Hanseatic League and the Ottoman Empire declined in part because voyages of discovery opened new trade routes that sidelined the old Eurasian ones. Given America’s external and domestic challenges these days, talk of U.S. decline has become fashionable again. After a long look at Europe, I’m not convinced. Lubbock isn’t Lübeck. Our pains are growing pains rather than the aches of old age. As long as we keep developing new technologies, integrating immigrants and generating wealth on a staggering scale, American society will be too dynamic for decadence and too busy for decline.

Historically, Chile has been influenced by the British maritime strategic culture, which is why Chile has adopted the subtle and elegant aspects of Julian Corbett’s maritime strategy, rather than the bold and flamboyant version put forward by Alfred Thayer Mahan. Interestingly, Chile could have evolved into a credible maritime power in the 20th century, with a stronger economy and booming trade, had its prized possession, the Strait of Magellan not lost out to Panama Canal for the latter’s ability to connect the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. https://lnkd.in/gxNr6jAJ

My essay on how Greece sees the course of European integration - and principally the role of Germany and France. With special thanks to Matthias Waechter and Landry Charrier.

🇪🇺🇧🇷 Celebrating European Day: Recognizing EU-Brazil Relations 🇪🇺🇧🇷 With Princess Astrid's upcoming economic mission to Brazil in November 2024 on the horizon, let's shine a spotlight on the connection between Brazil and the European Union. As we commemorate European Day on May 9th, it's crucial to acknowledge the strong and enduring relationship between the EU and Brazil. 🇪🇺 WALLONIA & BELGIUM: Wallonia, as a part of Belgium, has been a key player in the creation of the European Union, advocating for unity and cooperation among European nations. Belgian contributions to the EU's development have helped shape its values and objectives, fostering peace, prosperity, and solidarity across the continent. Through initiatives promoting cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and scientific research, the EU plays a pivotal role in strengthening ties with Brazil, contributing to mutual growth and prosperity. EU investments in Brazil contribute to the creation of dozens of thousands of jobs and foster employment and GDP growth through technology transfer and by integrating the EU subsidiaries in Brazil into the global chain value. 🇧🇷 BRAZIL: Brazil stands as an important partner for the European Union, with a relationship grounded in shared values; common goals and an important common cultural heritage. From trade agreements to joint ventures in technology and innovation, the EU and Brazil continue to work together to address global challenges and seize opportunities for sustainable development. As we celebrate European Day, let's reaffirm our commitment to collaboration and solidarity across borders. Together, the EU and Brazil can forge a brighter future, built on the foundation of mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. Happy European Day to all! 🎉🇪🇺🌍 https://lnkd.in/diMge3Xj Wallonia Export & Investment Agency | Belgian Foreign Trade Agency (BFTA) | Wallonie Bruxelles International | Skywin | BioWin - The Health Cluster of Wallonia | Wagralim, the Agri-Food Innovation Cluster of Wallonia | Logistics in Wallonia | GreenWin | Pôle MecaTech | Centre Logistique de Wallonie Governo do Estado de São Paulo Fiesp - Federação das Indústrias do Estado de São Paulo

Our review on the Baveno VII recommendations and limitations in Latin America.

🇩🇪🇪🇺 **New Video: Observations on German and European Culture After My Return** 🎥 After 6 months of traveling the world, I’m back in Germany and have made some fascinating observations about German and European culture. In my latest video, I share my insights and impressions gained upon returning home. 🌍 **What to Expect:** - **Positive Aspects:** What makes Germany unique and sorta to live in - **Negative Aspects:** Challenges and cultural differences observed - **Personal Learnings:** How this journey has reshaped my perspective on German and European culture 🔗 **Link to the Video:** https://lnkd.in/ejYckHWE I’m excited to hear your opinions and thoughts on my observations! What cultural differences or similarities have you noticed after traveling abroad? Best regards, Dennis #Culture #Germany #TravelExperiences #VideoSeries #ReturnHome #Observations

Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are often referred to as Scandinavia, but the term "Scandinavia" actually only refers to the cultural and linguistic heritage shared by Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. The term "Scandinavia" comes from the Scandinavian Mountains, which run through Norway and Sweden. The term is often used to refer to the three countries collectively, but technically, it only refers to the historical and cultural ties between Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. The term "Nordic countries" or "Norden" is a more inclusive term that also includes Finland, Iceland, and sometimes even the Faroe Islands, Greenland, and the Åland Islands. This term recognizes the cultural and historical similarities between these countries, including their shared Viking heritage and linguistic roots. So, while Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are often referred to as Scandinavia, the term "Nordic countries" is a more comprehensive term that includes a broader range of countries in the region!