Problem: The Japanese developed the habit of "cataloging" foreign influences and contrasting them with "native" characteristics. One result has been a frequent emphasis in Japanese history on primitive and supposedly native Japanese traits. In your opinion, what role did connections from the continent play in early Japanese society? Where were the early states located, and what kind of leadership/ organization did they have? Does the information fit with some of the "characteristics" of modern Japanese culture (appreciation of nature; gods and mortals; ceremonies for death and childbirth, etc.) in your impression? You may use examples from manga, animation, movies, video games, rituals, folktales, etc. Make sure to combine the appropriate information from the readings.