Monday, September 30, 2019

Case Study-Barclays

BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS I. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, CASE INTRODUCTION AND KEY POINTS Introduction The case covers the introduction of Matt Barrett as CEO of Barclays and the changes he introduced to the organization to maintain its competitive position within the retail financial services industry. In an increasingly competitive environment, Barclays is losing ground due to its lack of data-driven actions and small global presence. The case outlines the actions taken by Barrett to transform some of the key characteristics of Barclays’ corporate structure, and concludes by presenting the challenge he will face in getting management buy-in in order to implement his vision. The key challenges that Barclays faces include: market consolidation, the emergence of the Euro and European Central Bank, increased reliance on IT and web-based platforms, and the rigidity of its own corporate structure. II. EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT ANALYSIS Summarize the external environment, including conditions in the general, industry, and competitor environments. a. The General Environment Definition: The general environment is focused on the future and can be analyzed by considering the STEEP framework: Social/demographic, Technological, Economic, Environmental/geographic and Political/legal/governmental factors at play. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Social/Demographic Technological Economic Environmental/Geographic Political/Legal/Governmental Discussion Question 1: Perform a STEEP analysis to understand the general environment facing Barclays. How will Barclays be affected by external factors? In particular, what will the effect of globalization be in terms of threats and opportunities? Social/Demographic Segment ? English is becoming increasingly the world-wide language of business offering Anglophone Barclays opportunities to expand into international markets with reduced language barriers. BARCLAYS |1 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS Technological: ? ? ? Increased world-wide reliance on IT and the emergence of web-based solutions in 2000 will elevate Barclays’ need to diversify portfolio offerings. Barclays’ must update its â€Å"woefully inadequate† Management Information Systems (MIS) and begin to automate labor intensive processes to reduce costs. In order to enter new markets to increase revenues and satisfy institutional investors, Barclays must invest in increased technology capabilities. Economic: ? ? ? Robust economic environment due to tech boom will increase liquidity in the marketplace. As a result, acquisitions will be more costly than in a down economy. However this will also cause capital to be more accessible. Market trends towards consolidation will pressure Barclays to regain its industry leadership position through acquisition. Globalization and world economy flattening will require Barclays to become a global company expanding its offerings beyond its current UK focus. Environmental/Geographic: ? Geographic borders and distances between countries are shrinking with increased technology and a globalized economy. This will both require and facilitate Barclays’ global presence. Political/Legal/Governmental: ? ? Emergence of the Euro and strengthening of the EU will reduce FX exposure for the European markets and stabilize European economies. European Central Bank will control interest rates in Europe making Barclays more vulnerable to its decisions (versus the decentralized banks prior to the Euro emergence). With an ever increasing number of banks operating across both political and geographic borders, Barclays must expand its reach beyond the UK to remain competitive and avoid a potential takeover. In doing this, Barclays must consider a set of threats and opportunities that are involved with operating outside the UK: Threats 1. Operating a multinational corporation involves managing across multiple cultures, languages, and economic environments – Barclays’ organizational structure must be flexible enough to adapt to these. . Low brand recognition internationally would make competition against local institutions costly. BARCLAYS |2 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS 3. Relocation abroad requires high infrastructure costs. 4. Locating Barclays’ and its customers’ assets across multiple currencies exposes both to fluctuations in exchange rates. 5. Failed expansion into foreign market might damage brand image and alienate n ew customers. Opportunities 1. Increased global reach and brand presence. 2. Diversified risk. 3. Possibility to create new revenue streams through new customer acquisition. 4. Gain first mover advantage in emerging markets. 5. Increases attractiveness of Barclays to multinational corporations. b. The Industry Environment Definition: An industry is a group of firms producing products that are close substitutes. In the course of competition, these firms influence one another. Typically, industries include a rich mixture of competitive strategies that companies use to pursue above-average returns. In part, these strategies are chosen because of the influence of an industry’s characteristics. Compared with the general environment, the industry environment often has a more direct effect on the firm’s strategic competitiveness and above-average returns. The industry environment is the set of factors that directly influences a firm and its competitive actions and competitive responses. Porter’s 5 Forces Model is a powerful tool for understanding the dynamics amongst the five key factors that determine an industry’s level of rivalry and profit potential. [Outlined below, High=H; Medium=M; Low=L] 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Threat of New Entrants (or barriers to entry) Supplier Power Threat of Product Substitutes Buyer Power Intensity of Rivalry Discussion Question 2: Use Porter’s Five Forces Model to analyze the retail financial services industry in the UK. Given this analysis, is the industry attractive or unattractive? The below Porter’s 5 forces analysis shows that the retail financial services industry in the UK is a potentially attractive industry due to low threat of new entrants, supplier power, and substitutes. On the other hand, medium buyer power and high rivalry within the industry could inhibit return possibilities. Threat of New Entrants (or barriers to entry): Low ? ? High infrastructure costs Barclays has high brand recognition within the UK, less so in its other markets BARCLAYS |3 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS ? ? Regulatory and security issues make market entry complicated for smaller players NOTE: Mergers of existing banks, if considered ‘new entrants’, must be addressed given the consolidation trend existing in the market. Smaller regional banks could pull customers away from Barclays if they were to merge and offer more extensive services but retain local roots and connections. Supplier Power: Low ? Switching costs among IT suppliers low in a fragmented industry Threat of Product Substitutes: Low ? Traditional, paper based, systems have become outdated and are no longer feasible. Asset management advice is preferred by customers over DIY Buyer Power: Medium ? ? Price sensitivity of retail consumer (major revenue stream for Barclays) relatively high compared to that of corporate client Switching costs of retail consumer (major revenue stream for Barclays) relatively high compared to those of corporate client Intensity of Rivalry: High ? ? Customer loyalty and brand recognition make switching of banking provider less likely Large number of competitors within the retail banking space NOTE: Competition within the industry is based on both price and services The Competitor Environment c. Definition: The competitor environment is the final subject of analysis required to gain a full understanding of the company's external environment. A competitor analysis focuse s on each company against which a firm directly competes and involves gathering and interpreting information about its competitors. Competitive rivalry is the ongoing set of competitive actions and responses that occur among firms as they maneuver for an advantageous market position. Especially in highly competitive industries, companies constantly jockey for advantage as they launch strategic actions and respond or react to rivals’ moves. It is important to understand competitive rivalry because it influences a firm’s ability to gain and sustain competitive advantages. 3 I’s Framework Leveraging the 3 I’s framework provides a thorough overview by grouping competitors into three buckets: immediate competition, impending competition, invisible competition. BARCLAYS |4 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS 1. Immediate Competition: Immediate competitors to Barclays are considered to be the major financial institutions located in the UK such as Lloyds TSB and RBS. These institutions are gaining increasing presence over Barclays due to their lower cost structures and improved efficiencies. 2. Impending Competition: Impending competitors to Barclays include international financial services firms such as Credit Suisse First Boston, and smaller firms operating in one of Barclays’ business categories such as investment advisory firms (Zoete Bevan, Wells Fargo Nikko). . Invisible Competition: Barclays’ invisible competitors include smaller UK based businesses that focus solely on a product offered by one of Barclays’ divisions, such as smaller mortgage lending businesses (Woolwich). III. INTERNAL COMPANY ANALYSIS Summarize internal company factors including: capabilities and weaknesses, value chain activities, strategy, and financial situation. a. Outline the company's internal capabilities and weaknesses. Definition: Capabilities exist when resources have been integrated to achieve a specific set of tasks and are frequently developed within a specific functional area. In addition to identifying the company's opportunities and threats from the external environment, another important objective of the situation analysis is to evaluate strengths and weaknesses as input for developing the company's strategies. Discussion Question 3: What are the main capabilities of Barclays? Does Barclays have a core competence? Barclays’ main capabilities include retail financial services and corporate banking within the UK. The company’s core competencies (i. e. trengths relative to competitors that give it a competitive edge) include: a strong brand presence within the UK, a strong domestic franchise, new innovative leadership under Matt Barrett, and outstanding (276%) market cap growth from 1995-2000. BARCLAYS |5 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS Discussion Question 4: Create a SWOT analysis to understand Barclays’ strengths and weaknesses. Does Barclays have a sustainable competitive advantage in the re tail financial services industry? If so, what is the source? Strengths 1. Strong brand presence within UK 2. 76% growth in market cap from 19952000 3. Strong domestic franchise 4. Strong new leadership with strategic vision (Matt Barrett) Opportunities 1. Opportunity to expand into global markets (Barclays Global Investors only 2% of business) 2. Ability to strengthen existing brand presence within Europe (10% of sales and profits) 3. Streamline cost sharing among business units (HR, IT, Finance, etc. ) Weaknesses 1. Cost to income ratio significantly higher than competition (business units operate as silos) 2. Narrow focus (61% of revenue from RFS, capital division focused on debt products) 3. Limited global presence (80% of profits from UK) Threats 1. Management reluctance to embrace new strategies, demoralized staff 2. Competitors have lower cost advantage 3. Stronger global presence of international competitors 4. Dissatisfied institutional investors 5. Inadequate IT systems can inhibit growth Barclays’ competitive advantage includes its: strong presence within the UK market both in terms of locations and brand recognition, strong innovative leadership, and international presence. Barclays’ business strategy has focused on growth within the UK and has not invested enough capital into international expansion. In a globalizing economy with rising multinational financial corporations, the lack of a strong international presence is something that could significantly hurt Barclays in the long-term, and even turn it into a takeover target as institutional investors continue to lose faith in the company. b. Conduct a Value Chain analysis to identify value-creating activities. Definition: By exploiting its core competencies, a competitive firm creates value for its customers. Value is measured by a product’s performance characteristics and by its attributes for which customers are willing to pay. Companies with a competitive advantage offer value to BARCLAYS |6 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS customers that is superior to the value competitors can provide. Value is created by innovatively bundling and leveraging resources and capabilities. A value chain analysis provides information relative to primary (inbound/outbound logistics, operations, marketing & sales, and service) and secondary (firm infrastructure, human resources mgmt, technological developments and procurement) activities. A value chain representation of Barclays’ primary and support activities is presented in the diagram below. This information can be used to establish a business strategy which targets select activities to create a sustainable competitive advantage. Primary Activities ? ? ? ? Inbound/Outbound Logistics: N/A Operations: o Strong focus on Retail Financial Services (RFS), account for 61% of revenue o Sold cash, equities, and corporate finance businesses to focus on debt products Service: N/A Marketing and Sales: o Strong focus on UK market and low global presence o Reliance on UK brand recognition Support Activities ? ? ? HR Management: o Executive committee not performing as decision making team o Higher than average staff expenses put heavy strain on cost structure Technology Development: o Management Information Services (MIS) system is outdated and inadequate Firm Infrastructure: BARCLAYS |7 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS o Divisions operating as silos (each has own HR, IT, etc. ) o Lack of data driven decision making processes o Introduction of the Euro and the European Central Bank affect Barclays’ exposure to foreign exchange as well as interest rate changes both for the company itself and its clients Procurement: N/A Discussion Question 5: Which components of Barclays’ value chain have made the company successful thus far? What changes to Barclays’ organizational structure and focus are necessary for Barclays to remain competitive? Barclays has become a major player in the banking industry through strong brand presence within the UK, earning it one out of every five personal customers, and a clear focus on Retail Financial Services (RFS). However, both its UK presence and RFS focus have failed to provide a sustainable competitive advantage for the company. In order to remain competitive within the banking industry, Barclays must examine and redesign various components of its value chain including: 1. Focus on Retail Financial Services: a. Barclays must expand its focus beyond RFS by creating new product offerings for corporate customers and further expanding internationally to give newly acquired corporate customers global access. 2. Outdated and inadequate MIS system: a. In order to manage its internal functions efficiently, Barclays must adopt technological innovations and update its MIS system. 3. Lack of data driven decision making: a. In order to compete in an industry driven by statistics and analytics, Barclays must emphasize data driven decisions throughout its corporate structure. 4. Fragmented core divisions: a. Operating fragmented core divisions such as HR and Finance creates additional costs as well as bureaucracy and inefficiencies. Barclays must consolidate these shared services. BARCLAYS |8 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS c. Financial Analysis Definition: Financial analysis is used to assess the viability, stability and profitability of a company or operating division. The analysis is done using quantitative historical performance found in the financial reporting documents (Balance Sheet, Income Statement, and Statement of Cash Flows). The goal of the analysis is to understand a company’s financial health through its profitability, solvency, liquidity, and stability. Given the financial information provided in the case, it is clear that Barclays is lagging behind its competitors in cost control measures, and has allowed both PP&E and Staff Expenses to rise above its competitors’ average. Operating expenses as % of income In addition, an analysis of the company’s divisions and their respective earnings contribution reveals that Barclays heavily relies on its Retail Financial Services division for a large portion of its earnings; this suggests that diversification might be needed. NOTE: Further analysis into the average contribution of each revenue stream for other players in the industry is needed before diversification can be e ntirely justified. BARCLAYS |9 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS IV. STRATEGY FORMULATIO N Summarize Barclays’ strategic position as it relates to its current strategy and the components thereof. a. Summarize Barclays’ current strategy. Barclays’ current strategic objective is to drive profits by consolidating internal functions and expanding its international presence. The company is a major player in the UK financial services and retail banking industry but has lost ground internationally despite rapidly rising market capitalization. Fragmented internal divisions and a lack of aggressive expansion have brought up the need for extensive managerial and structural changes to the firm. This prompted the hiring of a new CEO, Matt Barrett, who established a series of restructuring goals for Barclays to remain competitive. b. Strategic Analysis Definition: Conduct an analysis of Barclays’ business strategy by using the 4 P’s Framework. The 4 P’s Framework is used to understand a company’s strategy based on its Position (Mission, Values, and Vision), Priorities, Payments (what it will spend its money on to reach those priorities), and Performance (how it will measure success). By completing the framework, we can analyze a company’s current, future, or recommended priorities as well as set forth a path in order to achieve goals and measure accomplishments. Use the 4 P’s Framework to analyze the firm’s past/current/future strategy. 1. Position a. Mission: To provide innovative products, excellent careers, positive community contributions B A R C L A Y S | 10 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS b. Values: Fact based decisions, customer service, and value maximizing strategy c. Vision: To be one of the most admired financial service organizations in the world 2. Priorities: 1. Develop cross-group synergies to lower costs and improve efficiency 2. Expand reach of Barclays brand abroad through strategic alliances/acquisitions 3. Continue to diversify existing business portfolio 3. Payments: 1. Invest in adequate IT systems 2. Invest in human capital initiatives to align incentives and boost morale 3. Invest in marketing and strategic alliances/acquisitions in underserved regions/segments 4. Performance: 1. Shareholder returns vs. peer institutions 2. Customer and revenue growth (double profits in four years) 3. Increased profit due to lower costs and increased efficiency (reduce costs by ? 1bn) Discuss possible recommendations that Barclays could follow going forward to improve the performance of the company. Determine the decision criteria and also analyze the pros and cons of each recommendation. In order to remain competitive within the marketplace, Barclays must: 1. i. ii. iii. 2. i. ii. 3. i. ii. iii. Develop cross-group synergies to lower costs and improve efficiency by: Rebuilding core infrastructure to consolidate HR, IT, and Finance groups across individual divisions Reducing costs by 18% (? bn) Realigning incentives to reward value-add decisions; Expand Barclays brand abroad though: Increased brand presence in Europe to enter top 5 ranking Strengthening of the brand in US and Africa; Continue diversifying the existing business portfolio by: Expanding Barclays product and service portfolio to strengthen weak or underrepresented areas to serve affluent/high net worth segments Decrea sing reliance on Retail Financial Services by strengthening Barclays Capital and Barclays Global Investors divisions Entering new markets by acquiring major players (e. g. Woolwich). B A R C L A Y S | 11 BARCLAYS: MATT BARRETT’S JOURNEY – WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS Question Reduce staff expenses Option / Hypothesis Reduce labor costs by increasing automation Decision Criteria ? Cost/Benefit analysis ? Effect on employee morale ? Technology capabilities ? Revenue growth ? Barriers to entry ? Effect on current resources ? Revenue Pros †¢ Long term cost reduction †¢ Streamlining of processes †¢ More control over information flow and analysis †¢ Does not cannibalize existing revenue streams †¢ Increase global reach and brand presence †¢ Diversifies risk †¢ Existing customer loyalty and brand presence †¢ No need for customer acquisition Cons †¢ High up-front cost †¢ Lengthy implementation period †¢ Technology risk †¢ Negative effect on employee morale †¢ High cost †¢ High risk and FX exposure †¢ No trial period †¢ Culture clashes, integration logistics †¢ Might stretch resources too thin †¢ Requires investment in infrastructure and human capital †¢ Requires new expertise Diversify target markets Increase revenue through new market entry with current product suite Diversify product offerings Increase equity and investment banking focus of Barclay Capital division growth ? Barriers to entry ? Effect on current resources B A R C L A Y S | 12

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Is the war on terrorsim just Essay

In this paper I argue that war against terrorism is no just but some war can be just as long as it follows the theory of a just war. As old as early civilizations, war played a significant role in the political stability and security of the society. It has been a central feature of civilisation throughout recorded time. (Evans, 1). Although war is seen as violent and morally destructive, still it was considered as an effective way of defending and even promoting civilization. It was also used by the major religions of this world such as Islam and Christianity to spread their faith. In every war, we can’t deny the fact that there is a political motive behind the heroic reason of its leaders. Being evil by nature, there are a lot of arguments regarding the moral aspect of war. According to La Vitta Cattolica, the debate is whether the nature of traditional war is still applicable with the modern one. Their stand is it is still the same when it comes to the extent of its fatality. They described it as a lethal contest, fed by hatred, physical violence is unleashed in all its brutality. (Elshtain, 108). Is war really for the benefit of people or is just another way of exploiting humanity? There is also a question regarding the extent of its necessity. Nowadays, there are standards to fulfil if a country wants to engage in war. Although a term such as just war was derived from this war controversy, still justice is still a question. It is because the provisions of this just war theory is not fulfilled. Until now, we can say that there is no such war in our history that fulfilled those provisions. Meanwhile, war is also in the history of Christian church. When we look at the teachings of Christianity, we can say that it is against the ideas of Jesus Christ. As we read the gospel, it was clearly imposed by Christ that each of us should love one another even our enemy. As a matter of fact, Nicolas I said that was is always satanic to its origin. (Elshtain, 113). Even Christ himself set an example of being a promoter of peace. But later on, the said faith needs to adapt to the changing world and the result is the use of war to defend the faith. During the 4th and 5th century, Christians were obliged to do military service. This policy was change during the middle ages but later on, the Church became involved with crusades. (Elshtain, 113). Here we can see that war is really inevitable. Although war is inevitable, still a nation or state should do alterative ways to defend themselves. Even if the motive of engaging in war is good the casualties that it will cause to humanity is great. In previous wars, a lot of innocent lives were brutality killed. It will be reasonable if those people were oppressors or enemy of the states but those people were ordinary citizens that needs to be protected. As said by Thucydides, â€Å"The strong do as they can while the weak suffer for what they must† (Chomsky, 1). It is the strong forces church as political and military forces who initiated the war but sadly, the civilians who have nothing to do with their decisions suffer from its consequences. As a state it is the responsibility of the government to promote the welfare of its people by letting them experience political security. One way of ensuring political security is through defending a state from foreign invaders. But it doesn’t mean that war is the only option to defend one state. For me, war should be the last option of the state and apart from selfish political reason; the welfare of the people should be the main motive. When it comes to war against terrorism, I believe that it is not just because it doesn’t apply to just war theory. What is a just war? In a traditional sense, it denotes a specific body of moral doctrine found in Christianity. (Evans, 2). It means that the faith that promotes peace love for enemies also adopted the use of war to secure the faith. In modern times, a just war means following certain ethical consideration before engaging in a war. In other words, actions are evaluated in terms of range of the likely consequence. (Chomsky, 7). It means that a just war should create a lesser physical and moral damage. It also means that engaging in a just war is like choosing the lesser evil. â€Å" †¦though within war there may be many acts of heroism, just war theory cannot then, be said to glorify war or be blind of its moral horrors. † (Evans, 10). Aside from that, just like other kinds of war, it involves torture and interrogation of innocent civilians. One way of justifying the war against terrorism is the idea that it protects the people from fatal terrorist attacks. Nowadays, terrorist attacks which is most commonly in a form of bombing kills a lot of innocent civilians. Other than that terrorist attacks can affect a nation’s economy that is why there are still doubts whether war against terrorism is really for people. Because the political stability of a states is also threatens by terrorist attacks, there is the possibility that the security of civilians is not the primary concern. Let us look at the condition of war theory and see whether the war against terrorism is a just war. First, the cause must be just and the justice of the cause is sufficiently great. Next, one must be confident that it will not yield long term consequences longer than the status quo. Obviously, it should be the last resort and moral standards should not be compromised. We can say that the first two conditions apply to the war against terrorism but the applications of the latter conditions were questionable. Surely this kind of war will cause long term psychological effects to the civilians involve. It can cause major trauma to the victims that can affect their daily lives even if the war is over. It is also obvious that moral standards were compromised because of the use of torture to gain information. There is also a debate regarding the moral aspect of torture. Indeed, information during war is a necessity for it can serve as a solution to win and end the war immediately. But the question is whether it is needed right here and now to win a particular battle. (May, 196). Form me, whether their information is helpful or necessary in winning the battle, torture is still a form of human rights violation. Indeed, war is not a good way of defending a state. Even if there are just wars, still it is very fatal and those innocent civilians were the common victims. But if there is no other option except war, it is reasonable as long as it promotes the welfare of the states and civilians. References: Elshtain, J. (1992) Modern War and Christian Conscience. But was it Just?. La Civilitta Cattolica. New York. Evans, M. (2005). Just War theory: A reappraisal. New York: Palgraw Macmillan. May, L. (2007). War Crimes and Just War. New York: Cambridge University Press. Chomsky, N. (2006). A Just War? Hardly. Retrieved: January 9, 2007 from ZNPT Commentaries. Website: http://www. zmag. org/sustiners/content/2006-05/zochomsky. cfm.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Environmental Studies Of The States Climate Essay

Environmental Studies Of The States Climate - Essay Example The monthly temperature ranges from 91.5Â °F to 30.0Â °F. Snow fall is a rare phenomenon and the highest record is only 13 inches on March 12-13, 1993 at Birmingham. Tornados and hurricanes are very common around Birmingham and Mobile due to turbulent wind patterns. Hurricanes of wind speeds 145mph caused the worst tornado disaster the Dixie Tornado outbreak in April 27, 2011 in which 50 tornados claimed more than 238 lives. Alaska The state Alaska is known for its high snow falls but is also hot in the summer. The highest mean annual temperature is 51.4Â °F recorded at Annette, AP and the lowest average annual temperature is 0.9Â °F recorded at Umiat. The mean annual rainfall is the highest at Whitter at 185.2 inches and the most snowfall occurs in the month of January at Valdez WSO as much as 65.1 inches with a snow depth of 31 inches. The extreme northern part of Alaska is Arctic with long and very cold winters and there is snow almost year around here. The wind speeds at the costal parts of the Gulf of Alaska are as high as 40 to 45 kmph and major natural disasters in Alaska are due to storms. Arizona The climatic conditions in this state are dry with little rainfall. The highest temperature recorded was 128Â °F at Lake Havasu City, 1994 and the lowest temperature recorded was -40Â °F at Hawley Lake, 1971. The average annual maximum temperature is 76.3Â °F recorded at Lake Havasu City and the lowest is 38.3Â °F at Sunrise Mountain. The highest average annual precipitation is at Hawley Lake 38.2 inches, and the lowest is 2.67 inches. The highest average annual snowfall is at Sunrise Mountain recorded as 243 inches. The state is more prone to storms and there are large temperature swings between the day and the night temperatures due to the dry climatic conditions relevant in the state. Arkansas Due to the location close to the Gulf of Mexico, Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate. The lowest temperature was recorded at Pond in 1905 as –29Â °F and a record high of 120Â °F was recorded on 1936 at Ozark. Average yearly precipitation is approximately 45 inches in the mountainous areas and greater in the lowlands; for example Little Rock received an annual average of 50.9 inches. Snowfall in the capital averages 5.2 inches a year and the northern part of the state gets more snowfall during the winter. The state is prone to natural disasters like thunderstorms, hails, snow storms and ice storms. A tornado with wind speeds as high as 180 to 200 mph damaged Atkins where 12 people were killed. California Most of the areas in the state of California have a Mediterranean climate, while some have a subarctic climate that is colder winters and hotter summers. The maximum average yearly temperature was recorded as 91Â °F at Death Valley. The lowest average annual temperature was recorded at Squaw Valley Lodge as 27.3Â °F. The mean rainfall was recorded the highest at 104.2 inches at Honey Dew and the lowest was recorded at 2.7 inches at Brawley. Snowfall is nil at most areas and the highest snowfall of 287.7 inches was recorded at Big Ben Ranger Station. The wind speeds range from 4.5 mph to 13.3 mph. Flood due to heavy rain, tornados, thunder storms and firestorms are common in this state.

Provide a compelling conclusion to my thesis which answers beyond Essay

Provide a compelling conclusion to my thesis which answers beyond doubt the question, - Essay Example ce the early 1980s may have made it more likely that financial factors in general, and the booms and busts in credit and asset prices in particular, act as drivers of economic fluctuations; as a result, the current environment may be more vulnerable to the occasional build-up of financial imbalances†. Because of the above turbulences, the strategies followed by the companies regarding the security of their assets have to be formulated accordingly. The impact of globalization in this case is extensive. As Stiglitz (2004, 57) states â€Å"one of the most controversial aspects of globalization is capital-market liberalization—not so much the liberalization of rules governing foreign direct investment, but those affecting short-term capital flows, speculative hot capital that can come into and out of a country†. However, despite the existence of common rules in the regulation of financial markets internationally, each country follows its own regulations in all issues related with commercial activities. International rules can have just a ‘supplementary’ role and only in cases where there is no appropriate national framework of rules regulating the commercial activities in all their aspects. Regarding this issue it has been supported by Pagano et al. (2001, 502) that â€Å"the regulations that shape the design and operations of corporations and credit and securities markets differ vastly from country to country while even similar regulations are often unequally enforced in different countries; economists still have an imperfect understanding of why these international differences exist and of whether they tend to persist over time†. On the other hand, the existence of these differentiations could be limited because of the existence of Internet which impose specific rules and principles on the transactions made. The structure of business operations can be also influenced in case that a particular business operates online. Indeed, the study of Ellam et al. (2002,

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Nonwestern Art and Western Art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Nonwestern Art and Western Art - Essay Example Art can also be categorized based on different cultures that were found in different countries. This means that each country has its own identity based on the artwork. For example, the art of China is very different to art from Africa. Each culture has its own type of art. A painting would be drawn from different countries but differ in some elements due to culture. The artwork has roots in various indigenous cultures that affected America. The indigenous cultures of each sophisticated artistic art discipline but has been highly affected by the religious and social activities. Artwork ranges from one society to another due to the various cultural activities practiced in the society. For example, some societies are influenced by the love the wildlife activities, agricultural activities, art of war and social activities. In the present day, artistic work, non-western culture has adopted the Western culture. This has been a result of social integration and integration. It has been made possible by improved transport and communication networks globally. Modern day art students have a variety of artistic work to choose from during their course work. Most art institutions offer different type of arts. They include the Western art, Non-western art and a combination of the two types of art. According to researchers and the opinion, fro the artists the artwork has many challenges revolving around. The history of artwork from the traditional era, modern, pre-modern, and postmodern artwork has been affected. by a series of problems in the chain of the artwork. The chain of artwork ranges from artist to the buyer. An artist’s work passes through before reaching the customer this channel. However, in the artwork we have the presence of the brokers whom their main aim is to find the market for the artist items. The sculptures, paintings, and photography are the items in the artwork that have a high market demand in the history of the artwork. The increased crave for a rt has shifted from the pre-modern state to the post-modern state. According to the researchers, its shifts and crave have also brought about various problems that have affected the artwork globally. Artwork being a vital factor affecting the underdeveloped and developed countries economy is being faced by a series of challenges. These challenges have affected the

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

ESI Active Directory Configuration Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

ESI Active Directory Configuration - Essay Example It is time to design its new Active Directory and to define the corresponding policies. Top View or Forest ESI will have a single domain AD forest with centralized authentication and authorization. Security boundaries and specifications will be defined starting with the urgent requirements that will prevent cybercrime from forcing the entire network to start from scratch. The strategy of developing with precaution will allow all the officers and employees to become familiar with the actual implementation, without experiencing too much security threats from external sources.. First of all, the AD DS will be installed in Microsoft Windows Server 2008. Due to the rapid expansion of business operations, the aim will be to have three (3) Domain Controllers. This is to take the least probability of having to recover from backup files in case of technical troubles somewhere in the system. All branches will be connected by a single DNS name. Thus, from the Central Office of ESI.com, each bra nch will have a subdomain that employees can access after passing security authentication. Illustrated with a diagram below are the Servers /.Controllers and that the branches will access daily to be connected to a Single Forest, Single Domain startup design. (Rommel, Florian 2009a). All branches will access the server via Internet, more specifically by logging into the domain ESI.com. However, these servers can only share software but not printers and other devices that are within the branch vicinity. These are the three (3) controllers or servers for the entire network. One will serve as automatic backup. The 3rd should backup only after internal audit has double checked the active or real time backup data. For security purposes, the three servers will be located in a well-guarded, fireproof, temperature-controlled offices near the top 10 most trustworthy Executives. and where calamity cannot destroy them. Furthermore, one of them will be under daily audit by the IT Security Depar tment. Servers will then link all the branches nationwide so that their computer work stations can share in the use of resources found in the centralized server. Note that only one server is mentioned because the other two are backup servers wherein one backup is most protected. It is foreseen that eventually, each branch will have to maintain a server of its own to handle activities that do not need to be strictly secured. â€Å"The AD DS role is what enables the server to act as Domain Controller.† says the System Administrator (2012). But the AD DS should first be installed. In Windows Server 2008, open Server Manager from the Quick Launch Toolbar icon, or by going to Administrative Tools.The next steps are as follows: Click â€Å"Roles† > â€Å"Add Roles† > Next > â€Å"Select Server Roles†> Click on Active Directory Domain Services.> Next> Confirm Selected Roles Installation> Wait for Installation Success> Doublecheck if AD DS got installed by going back to Server Manager. See Figure 2, 3 under Appendix. Once AD DS has been installed in Windows Server 2008, run DCPROMO as follows: Run> dcpromo > OK > Welcome to Active Directory Domain Services Installation Wizard > Next > Open system Compatibility > Next > Choose a Deployment Configuration > Select Create a New Domain > Be sure to type the exact Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN)., e.g. ESI.com > Set the Forest Functional Level. > Select additional Domain Controller Options by placing a check mark on the DNS Server.> Select DHCP > Continue until AD DS Installation is complete. When asked for a Directory Service Restore Mode Administrator Password, be sure to â€Å"control† and keep the password in writing for the time when the system might

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Inequalities in Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Inequalities in Education - Essay Example Hence, it is easy to understand that there is a strong correlation between policies of the political parties in power, and the impetus given to the field of education, especially in the present day context of multiculturalism. This essay shall briefly analyze the dimensions of inequality, the causal factors and the policy implications in the field of education, in the United Kingdom since the close of the twentieth century. It shall consider three major inequalities namely, a) economic gap/social class b) gender/sex c) race/ethnic minority, and study how policies have impacted these inequalities as regards education in general. It shall also discuss education with particular relevance to early years, and conclude that while the policies have positively impacted reduction of gender inequalities, more efforts are required to eradicate ethnic inequalities. Peter Taylor-Gooby in his work "Attitudes to Social Justice" published by the Institute for Public Policy Research (2005) cites David Miller to identify four principles of social justice namely, a) Equal Citizenship, b) The Social Minimum, c) Equality of Opportunity, and d) Fair Distribution (p. 2). Of these four, the third has particular relevance to education, and the inequalities within it. ... unity of opportunity is said to exist only when the chances of an individual getting education and jobs, depend solely on their own motivation and aptitudes rather than on other factors such as gender, class or ethnicity. When the differences in Social Class, Gender and Race/Ethnic origins prevent or deny educational or job opportunities, then these are considered to be impediments to achieving social justice, they are inequalities that obstruct fair distribution of opportunities and rewards. While Education is considered to be a tool that aids equality in society, "as the principle means of creating a more equal society", it is also said to contribute to "the reproduction of social inequalities" (Moore 7) and has important implications in ensuring 'social mobility' (DfES 7). Given that educations is a potential tool for implementing social justice, it is essential to study and record the inequalities that affect the process of education. Foremost among the factors affecting education is the difference in income levels; poverty affects educational possibilities. Poverty/Class as an Inequality: It is important to distinguish between "inequality and poverty" even though they are closely linked (Hills & Stewart 232). Poverty is measured by taking into account the incomes of the poorest households and comparing them against the median income; generally poverty line is defined at 60% of current median income, after adjustments. The differences in incomes lead to two types of inequalities - Vertical and Horizontal. The former indicates the difference between the topmost and bottommost income earners, while the latter indicates communities or nations with similar incomes (biz/ed 1). The New Labour government has changed its policies since the 1970s, and now no longer

Monday, September 23, 2019

Definition of Ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Definition of Ethics - Essay Example In the professional world, ethics refers to â€Å"the principles of conduct governing an individual or a group† (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). Professional ethics are rules that govern the actions of the people it covers. Ethics tells them what is acceptable behavior from one that is not. Connotative Meaning Ethics connotes a clear sense of the right things to do and the wrong things to avoid. Since ethics corresponds to established rules and laws, everyone is expected to follow and adhere to them. Ethics governs the behavior of people; it tells them how to behave and act in different situations that are acceptable to the norms of society. It is a standard against which people’s behaviors are measured. Being moral means conforming to accepted standards of behavior. Ethics also connotes a system of belief from which people subscribe. It is a shared consciousness among people composed of their beliefs, values, and aspirations which guide their daily living. Similar to laws , however, ethics in this sense is developed by the people and is passed on to other generations. Having survived the test of time, this gives ethics a sense of legitimacy making it even more useful as a set of guiding philosophies for the next generation to use. Ethics can also be considered an area of inquiry. Studying ethics as a branch of philosophy reveals the fundamental nature of the term and the sets of knowledge that have been built around it by philosophers. In this sense, the true nature of right and wrong is argued and debated. Inconsistencies, gaps, and limitations in the definition of morality are threshed out. This results to a connotation of ethics that transcends the boundaries of time and space. Professional ethics, on the other hand, emphasizes the need to adhere to those rules since deviations from them can result to legal consequences. Examples of professional ethics include physician, journalist, and business codes of ethics. These ethics act as guidelines that help professionals make the right decisions when faced with morally-challenging situations. Examples of these situations include a doctor considering euthanasia, a journalist covering a hostage crisis, or a corporate executive dealing with union issues. I see ethics as a set of moral standards that must be observed and followed. Having a sense of right and wrong is important because it translates into the behavior and actions of a person. Ethics is what directs a person to choose the right thing over the wrong one. Knowing the difference between right and wrong allows a person to make informed decisions when dealing with difficult situations. It enables a person to align his/her moral convictions with those of the established ethical rules. Adhering to ethics, however, remains to be a personal choice. Despite societal expectations to act and behave according to ethical rules, it cannot be avoided that people’s actions may sometimes deviate from the norm. Ethics, then, is a c onscious decision that requires constant effort from the person adhering to it. It is a conviction to follow established moral principles in order to achieve societal harmony. Ethics in this sense involves having to compromise one’s beliefs with the collective belief system that a society holds about proper behavior. Since ethics is constructed by society,

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Roman Influence on Byzantine Empire and Islamic Societies Essay Example for Free

Roman Influence on Byzantine Empire and Islamic Societies Essay The mother of the world has been killed,† stated a 5th century historian, bereft and appalled when the news of Rome’s fall had reached ear. Certainly his words hold truth, for Rome the dauntingly colossal Empire engulfing the Mediterranean and all territories around it; the source of artistic, intellectual, and cultural ascendancy; the influential factor of brilliance in so many of the coexisting societies of the western world was truly the predecessor and creator of all Western Civilization to come. However, what no one knew, was that the lasting impression this powerful and astonishing civilization would make upon the world, even if only through the works of fleeting memory or written text. As always, with loss comes a chance for gain an opportunity for rebirth and renewal that could previously have only been a dream. And so, with the collapse of one great empire, opportunities arose for the numbers of new kingdoms and societies to follow. The Byzantine Empire and Islamic societies were two especially prominent societies that gained primacy, arising from the fourth to sixth century. Although both Byzantine and Islamic societies created their own empires, with separate rulers and individuals, the Roman Empire heavily influenced their cultural aspects, as demonstrated in their religion, art, and law. The Byzantine Empire was a highly prosperous society centered around the city of Constantinople. This society, dating back to around 330 AD, consecutively arising after the fall of the Roman Empire, and managed to remain in power for more than 1000 years. It was the most powerful economic and military force in all of Europe at the height of it’s power. Constantinople, located at present day Istanbul, was the capital city of the Byzantine Empire, and played a key role in the hegemony of the empire. By cause of the city’s prime positioning with access to east-west and north-south trade routes, trade became an important institution and base of economy in the Byzantine Empire. Silk was originally bought from China for the grand empire, until silk-worms were illegally obtained by Byzantine monks, and factories were established in the Empireto create this rare product. Silk soon became an imperial monopoly, and through this way, the trade of luxury items became the Byzantine’s main source of income. The location of Constantinople also aided in military conquest and defence, for the empire’s naval headquarters were located along the shores, and had access to the Black Sea and Mediterranean. Because of the Empire’s location, all but overlapping the fallen Roman’s territory, the Byzantine Empire was greatly affected by these Roman’s past traditions and ways of life. The Roman Empire influenced the Byzantine Empire’s culture, mainly through the religion of Christianity. Christianity first appeared in the Roman Empire, with the birth, teachings, and supposed resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the beginning years of it’s arrival, Christianity was not tolerated and Christians were mainly, and most often brutally prosecuted. However, with Constantine’s Edict of Milan, Christianity was officially tolerated, and under Theodosius, it became the official religion of the Roman Empire. The Byzantine Empire inherited this relatively new religion, continuing to follow the beliefs and traditions of the church, as well as spreading the word of Jesus Christ and the message of god. Churches sprung up in the empire, such as the mighty Hagia Sophia. Located in Constantinople and built by Justinian, this church especially exemplified Roman influence through its divine architecture. â€Å"Above the arches is raised a circular building of a curved form through which the light of day first shines,† (document 2) boasts Procopius, a Byzantine scholar from Palestine. He became the principal historian of the 6th century, documenting the works and wars of Justinian I. Procopius describes the church’s magnificent domed ceiling, which, along with columns and a concrete skeleton, can hardly be castigated, nor denied of it’s uncanny resemblance to Rome’s Pantheon. Justinian was the Christian Emperor of the Byzantine Empire who is famous for his building projects, battle tactics, and his codification of Roman law. â€Å"We have attempted the most thorough amendment of the entire law, to collect and revise the whole body of Roman jurisprudence, and to assemble in one book the scattered treatises of so many authors,† Justinian writes, reflecting upon his work. The Justinian code was essentially a collection of scattered Roman documents on law, treaties, and other diverse legal matters. This codification was used as the basic system of law in the Byzantine Empire, and successfully governed an Empire of citizens for roughly 1000 years. In conclusion, if not for the influence and impact of lingering hints of Roman Christianity, architecture , and law, the Byzantine Empire would have evolved into a profoundly variant society than the one established so many years ago. Islamic Societies were very militaristic, religious, and politically based on the teaching of Muhammad. Although small when first founded in the sixth century, at it’s height of power, regions conquered and maintained by the Umayyad and Abbasid dynasties included Egypt, Arabia, lands of the Persian Empire and Asia Minor, regions of North Africa snaking along the Mediterranean, and territories of present day Spain in the west. Comprised of brilliant generals and thousands of well-motivated men striving for eternal paradise in the after-life, the army was immensely dynamic, efficacious, and cardinal to the prodigious power of the Islamic Kingdom. Religion influenced much of the population’s way of life, dictating family practices, working hours, diet, public ceremonies, and many other aspects of everyday life. To maintain the promise of eternal paradise after death, a Muslim was expected to follow the ruler and faith with honor and loyalty, as well as the Five Pillars of Islam. Stated in the Qur’an, these pillars are thought of as the hindmost commitment to Islam, and obedience to the laws is key. One must accept monotheism and Muhammad as God’s holy messenger (Shahada), pray five times a day and attend communal prayer on friday (Salat), give alms to the poor and less fortunate (Zakat), fast during the holy month of Ramadan (Sawm), and make a pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) at least once in a life-time. The rulers of Islamic Society, entitled as caliphs, were expected to follow these pillars, as well as the practice of Jihad striving in the way of the Lord. However, although the Islamic culture and government had many newly created aspects, the motif of previous Roman society was still predominantly clear. Roman influence on Islamic Societies was mainly displayed in its art, specifically architecture and language. The multitude of Roman architects, hired by kings to institute the design and production of churches, were frequently extremely bright, talented, and passionate. The innovative building models established were graced with stability, natural impregnability, and beauty. Islamic societies gained much of their knowledge on contemporary architecture from the Romans, and in effect, produced constructions very similar to those erected in the bygone days of the Roman Empire. For example, the Islamic Dome of the Rock, constructed in Jerusalem 690 AC, possesses aspects similar to those of the Roman Pantheon. The Dome of the Rock’s ceiling, to no extent of surprise, is in fact in the shape of a dome, such as the ceiling of the Pantheon. Furthermore, the Islamic structure contains many columns that are conjointly displayed in the Roman temple. The Mosque at Cordoba contains arches and columns resembling those built by Romans in water canals and at the gates of cities. The Islamic religions also continued to carry on the most spoken language of Rome Latin. Caliphs and libraries collected texts from all around the world, while scholars translated the sterling works into Arabic and Latin. Although Islamic some celebrations show congruency with celebrations of Christians,Roman influence on the Muslim people was mainly cultural. News of Rome’s fall spread quickly throughout lands of the Mediterranean, Africa, Persia, and Arabia. All were astonished at the supposed failure of the once mighty empire, considering it’s previous success and military conquest. Acting as predecessor and nurturer, Rome had affected countless bordering societies, all across the western world. However, the historian pronouncing Rome’s title as â€Å"mother of the world† had been ludicrously incorrect in concern to one aspect of the Empire’s demise. Rome went on influence future cultures in the Mediterranean regain for centuries, especially those of the Byzantine Empire and ancient Islamic Societies. By means of the Empire’s culture, religion, and law, Rome continues to influence American society today, even hundreds of year’s after the empire’s fall. In Washington D. C. , the use of columns, arches, and domes is a common motif in most political buildings, as well as domestic dwellings. Christianity is now a widely adopted religion, practiced by approximately thirty-three percent of the entire world’s population. Justinian’s codification of Roman law can still be compared with legal and justice systems from around the world, especially in western civilization. The 6th century historian was terribly mistaken in the fact that Rome had been killed, for today as vividly as yesterday; as true as the promise of tomorrow’s rising sun Rome lives on. In the subtle curve of an elegant column, in the chromatic dazzle of a church’s stained glass window, and in the crack of a judge’s mallet, bringing justice to all those our mighty nation gives promise to protect and serve, Rome survives. Chin to the sky, arms open, Rome stands tall and illustrious, ready to embrace all those who walk the earth all whom she deems children.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Background Information On Undernutrition Health And Social Care Essay

Background Information On Undernutrition Health And Social Care Essay Malnutrition could be defined as an imbalance between nutrients and energy supply to the cells and the bodys requirement for growth, maintenance and specific functions (1). That is, malnutrition could be over nutrition, in which case the bodys nutrients and energy supply exceeds what the body requires, or undernutrition, in which case the nutrients and energy supply does not meet the bodys demand. An example of over nutrition is obesity whiles and example of undernutrition is marasmus or kwashiorkor. Malnutrition is responsible for about 5.6 to 10 million child mortality annually, 1.5million of these deaths is as a results of severe malnutrition (). Nutritional status of an individual reflects the balance between the nutrients consumption and its utilization in the processes of growth, health maintenance and reproduction (). Thus, it extends from nutrient levels in the body, the end products of metabolism to the functional activities that they control (). Undernutrition is disturbing because it is responsible for more than a third of all child deaths in developing countries (1). It blunts the mind, affects the productivity of its victims and brings about poverty (24). It is important to address the issue of undernutrition if there is any hope of achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), especially MDG 1 which is to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger. Proper nutrition helps give every child the best start in life. Beside every child has a right to adequate nutrition. However, there are a significant proportion of children who are denied this right for reasons that could easily be prevented. An estimated 13 million children under 5years globally are severely undernourished and 50% of them die from preventable causes (1). Interestingly, 99% of the child deaths occur in the developing countries (24). Up to date studies point out that, one in three children less than five years in the developing world are undernourished with sub -Saharan Africa and Asia having high rates, of 40 per cent and 35 per cent respectively (24). Currently, it is estimated that one-third of children less than five years of age in developing countries are stunted (low height-for-age), whiles significant proportion of them, are also deficient in one or more micronutrients (24). Studies shows that, a child with severe undernutrition enrolls late in school and also affects his or her performance in school (26).This contributes significantly to the increased rates of school drop- out and undoubtedly contributing to the issue of meaningful access and educational outcome (25). This could be attributed to the fact that, the harm caused by undernutrition to children during the first two years, especially between 6 months and 24months is irreversible because it is the period of rapid brain development (25). In order to ensure that all children achieve optimal nutrition as well as low incidence of infectious disease and infant mortality from malnutrition, it is important that we understand the factors that contributes to undernutrition (23). CONCEPTUAL FRAME WORK OF CHILD UNDERNUTRITION. According to the United Nations Childrens Emergency Fund (UNICEF), the theoretical outline of child malnutrition shows numerous interventions that can decrease morbidity and mortality associated with malnutrition (23). To prevent or manage malnutrition, the factors implicated needs evaluation. In addition, the various causes of malnutrition overlap, that is: immediate causes, underlying causes and basic causes (23). Figure 1: conceptual framework of childhood undernutrition 1.2.1 IMMEDIATE CAUSES The immediate causes of childhood malnutrition is classified as, insufficient diet as well as stress, trauma, diseases (such as HIV, TB etc) and poor psychosocial care. Poor dietary ingestion may refer to poor breastfeeding practices, early weaning, delayed introduction of complementary feed. It is known that the stage from birth to two years of age is the significant period for the promotion of good growth, health, behavioral and cognitive development (24). Therefore, optimal infant and young child feeding is crucial during this period. Regrettably, this period (especially between 6 to 24months after birth), is often marked by growth faltering, micronutrient deficiencies as well as common childhood illnesses such as diarrhoea and acute respiratory infections (ARI) (24). The WHO therefore recommends Optimal feeding practices during this period, which involves early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months of life, continued breastfeeding for up to two years of age and beyond, timely introduction of complementary feeding at 6 months of age, frequency of feeding, solid/semisolid foods, and the diversity of food groups fed to children between 6 and 24months of age (1). Exclusive breastfeeding is an excellent way of providing adequate food for a babys first six months of life (21). An estimated 1.4 million deaths occurs globally among under five children every year because of inadequate or suboptimum breastfeeding (22). The most recent data suggest that, in the developing world, 36 per cent of 0-5 month olds are exclusively breastfed, whiles 60 per cent of 6-8 month olds are breastfed and given complementary foods and  55 per cent of 20-23 month olds are provided with continued breastfeeding (22). Also among newborns, 43 per cent started breastfeeding within the first hour after birth (22). Adequate complementary feeding of children from 6 months to two years is critical in preventing undernutrition. Proper timing of complementary feed introduction also helps prevent undernutrition. Early beginning of complementary food is found to be associated increased risk of acute respiratory tract infections, eye infections and high malaria morbidity. This is because, when complementary feeding is initiated, it results in reduced breastmilk consumption which could results in the loss of passive immunity from the mother to the child (23). Thus causing higher morbidity especially when unhygienic foods are used, as a results of development of diarrhoea (23). This is supported by a study done in India, which shows that growth curves weaken by 4months of life as a consequence of early initiation of complementary feeding (23). Evidence further shows that, complementary feeding practices are generally poor among developing countries, thus children continue to be vulnerable to permanent o utcomes like stunting and impaired cognitive development (24). Currently in Ghana, there is widespread child malnutrition, contributing to the continuous high child mortality (25). About 39% of all Ghanaian 2 year olds are moderately or severely stunted with the incidence rising in the Northern regions (25). Studies show that undernutrition is more prevalent in the rural than the urban areas of the country (3). Almost one in five children under age five in Ghana are underweight (18 percent) and 3% are classified as severely underweight (25). Nearly a quarter of children (22%) are stunted or too short for their age and 5 percent are wasted or too thin for their height (1). 1.2.2. UNDERLYING CAUSES: It include inadequate levels of household food security, inadequate care of infant and children, low levels of education of mother/caregivers, inadequate health care and insanitary environment (23). 1.2.3. BASIC CAUSES OF MALNUTRITION This is also called the root causes of malnutrition and it include deprived and control of resources (such as political, social, ideological and economic), degradation, of the environment, poor agriculture, war, political instability, urbanization, population growth and seize, distribution, conflicts, trade agreements and natural disasters, religious and cultural factors (23). PROBLEM STATEMENT. Globally it is estimated that 60 million children have moderate acute and 13 million have severe acute malnutrition(SAM) (23) . 50% of 10 to 11 children below five years die from preventable causes such as undernutrition (23). Studies have also shown that 9% of children in the sub-saharan Africa have moderate acute malnutrition whiles 2% of them are severely malnuhrised (23). One of the identified factors contributing to high mortality rates from undernutrition is because, only severe cases of malnutrition are reported with most of them reporting late. According to a press released by the Central Regional Nutrition Officer on 20th September 2011, Four hundred and twenty seven (427) severe malnutrition cases among children were recorded (from January to June, last year) by the Central Region Health Administration, with Agona West having the highest of 113 followed by Upper Denkyira East with 83 cases. Eighty two percent (82%) of the cases were children from zero to two years. Fifty four per cent (54%) are females with forty six percent (46%) being males (4). According to the Ghana demographic and health survey report released in 2008, out of a total number of 246 children from the central region involved in the study, 47.8% of them had height for age below -3SD (indicating severe stunting), 22.6% had weight for age below -3SD (indicating severe wasting) and 13.7% had weight for height below -3SD (indicating severe undernutrition) (19). According to the report, out of 292 children born in the region over the period of the research, 9 9.3% were breastfed (19). Out of this, 55.5% of them breastfeeding was started within an hour after birth whiles 79.1% of them were breastfeed within 24hours after birth (19). The burden of undernutrition cannot be ignored when considering the health of a country, most importantly in a developing country like Ghana. Although Ghana recently attained a lower middle income country status, the prevalence of undernutrition has been persistently high. More needs to be done in terms of childhood nutrition if the millennium goals 4 is to be achieved. Undernutrition reduces an increased susceptibility to infections, slow recovery from illness and poor outcomes from simple medical conditions. The critical window , which is the period of birth up to two years (24 months) of life, is an important period of preventing undernutrition . If undernutrition is not taken care of during this critical period, it may lead to irreversible damage for future development towards adulthood such as low intellect which may eventually affect productivity. RATIONAL OF STUDY. Infant and child morbidity and mortality as well as the economic ability of the country will always continue to be a problem if the nutritional status of young children(6 to24months) is overlooked. If infant and child mortalities goes high, the government spends huge sums of money to reduce or prevent them. This could be avoided by just identifying and addressing the factors that are associated with undernutrition. For example, an inexpensive way of ensuring good child nutrition is to educate mothers to engage themselves in good child feeding practices such as exclusive breastfeeding for 6months and timely introduction of quality complementary feeding. This study seeks to assess the nutritional status of children 6months to 24months in order to identify those who have any form of undernutrition which is indicated by stunting, wasting and underweight. This will help identify the common factors that contributes to undernutrition so that programmes could be geared towards children 6 months to 24 months as a whole. STUDY HYPOTHESIS: Childhood undernutrition is influenced by socio-demographic factors, child feeding practices and the health history of child and mother/caregiver pair. GENERAL OBJECTIVE To assess the nutritional status of children 6months to 24months attending child welfare clinic in the cape coast metropolis and examine the factors associated with it. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES The specific objectives are to: Determine the socio demographic background of mother/caregiver and child (6 to 24 months old) pair. Determine the nutritional status of children between the ages of 6months and 24months. Determine the child feeding practices of mothers/ caregivers and its association with child nutritional status. Identify the common food items used in complementary feeding of children 6 to 24months. Determine the health history including acute (diarrhoea, respiratory tract infection, anemia and malaria) and chronic illnesses such as TB and HIV) of children between 6months and 24months and their association with undernutrition. CHAPTER 2 2.1. INTRODUCTION Worldwide, hunger and malnutrition are the two most significant public health challenges (23). Malnutrition increases the risk for illness and death with millions of both children and women being affected as a results of infections, poor and inadequate diet (23). Reports suggest that infants and young children are the most venerable to malnutrition because of their increased nutritional needs to support growth (23). Nutritional disorders arise from imbalance between supply of protein-energy and the bodys demand for them to ensure optimal growth and function (23). This imbalance includes both inadequate and excessive nutrient intake; the former leading to malnutrition in the form of wasting, stunting and underweight whilst the latter results in overweight and obesity (23). Malnutrition is often used to in place of PEM (protein energy malnutrition), which is commonly regarded and its severe forms are called marasmus, kwashiorkor and miasmic kwashiorkor (23). SAM is a term used to describe a combination of all the different forms of PEM, it refers to weight for height 2.2. PREVALENCE OF MALNUTRITION Globally, the nutritional status of children is improving with the exception of sub-Saharan Africa. This progress is however hindered by poverty, infection and inefficient governance (22). In a study conducted among developing countries, was second to Asia in terms of the number of children who are stunted, underweight and wasted (23). Table 2.1. Prevalence of PEM among children under 5years in developing countries, 1995. REGION WASTING /% STUNTING /% UNDERWEIGHT /% Africa 39 28 8 Asia 41 35 10 Latin America and Caribbean 18 10 3 Oceania 31 23 5 (Muller and krawntel, 2005). In the state of the worlds children report released in 1998, malnutrition resulted in about seven million deaths which are about 55% of all child deaths (23). Of these, three quarters are mild to moderately malnourished without obvious signs of problems (23). According to a press released by the Central Regional Nutrition Officer on 20th September 2011, Four hundred and twenty seven (427) severe malnutrition cases among children were recorded (from January to June, last year) by the Central Region Health Administration, with Agona West having the highest of 113 followed by Upper Denkyira East with 83 cases. Eighty two percent (82%) of the cases were children from zero to two years. Fifty four per cent (54%) are females with forty six percent (46%) being males (4). In the 2008 Ghana demographic and health survey, out of a total number of 246 children from the central region involved in the study, 47.8% of them had height for age below -3SD (indicating severe stunting), 22.6% had weight for age below -3SD (indicating severe wasting) and 13.7% had weight for height below -3SD (indicating severe undernutrition) (19). In the report, out of 292 children born in the region over the period of the research, 99.3% were breastfed (19). Out of this, 55.5% of them breastfeeding was started within an hour after birth whiles 79.1% of them were breastfeed within 24hours after birth (19). 2.3. CLASSIFICATION OF MALNUTRITION Malnutrition, defined in this context as nutritional deficiency, is a serious public health problem that has been linked to a substantial increase in the risk of mortality and morbidity. It is normally used to describe protein energy malnutrition. Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) refers to a group of related disorders which include marasmus, kwashiorkor and marasmus-kwashiorkor (2). Marasmus involves inadequate intake of protein and calories and is characterized by emaciation or wasting (2). Kwashiorkor refers to an inadequate protein intake with reasonable caloric (energy) intake and it is characterized by edema (2). Therefore the major clinical difference between marasmus and kwashiorkor is the wasting which is seen in marasmus but absent in kwashiorkor and edema which is present in kwashiorkor but absent in marasmus. Moreover, in the intermediate state of marasmus kwashiorkor, there is both wasting and edema. Studies suggest that marasmus represents an adaptive response to starvation, whereas kwashiorkor represents a maladaptive response to starvation (2). Children, usually present with a mixed picture of marasmus and kwashiorkor, hence the term protein- energy malnutrition is commonly used in child malnutrition (2). Pati ents with protein-energy malnutrition may also have deficiencies of vitamins, essential fatty acids, and trace elements (2). In marasmus the insufficient energy intake to match the bodys requirements causes the body draw on its own stores thus resulting in emaciation (2). In kwashiorkor, because there is adequate carbohydrate ( caloric) consumption but inadequate protein intake leads to decreased synthesis of visceral proteins (2).This result in hypoalbuminemia (low albumen in blood) which contributes to extravascular fluid accumulation as a result of reduced intravascular oncotic pressure (2). Another effect is the impaired synthesis of B-lipoprotein thus leading to a fatty liver (2). Marasmus and kwashiorkor could both be associated with impaired glucose clearance that relates to dysfunction of pancreatic ÃŽÂ ²-cells (2). Protein-energy malnutrition also involves an inadequate intake of many essential nutrients such as zinc, vitamins e.t.c (2). The WHO classifies malnutrition into moderate and severe malnutrition (23). Malnutrition is classified as severe when there is the presence of symmetrical edema (malnutrition edema), weight-for-height SD-score 2.4. ASSESSMENT OF NUTRITIONAL STATUS The severity of malnutrition varies in terms of its clinical, biochemical and physiologic features. These features are also affected by the age of the child, nutritional deficits and infections. Diagnosis of child malnutrition is made by taking a detailed dietary history and demonstrating the presence of clinical features, which are weight loss, slow growth/ growth retardation, childs physical activity and energy levels, the recent history of diarrhoea, immune-suppression and many other features. The assessment of nutritional status according to weight-for-height, height-for-age and presence of nutritional edema is the WHO standard criteria for diagnosing undernutrition (1). Whilst the child with edematous malnutrition could easily be identified by most clinicians, wasting as a form of malnutrition could easily be missed if anthropometric measurements are not done. Growth assessment in terms of anthropometry is routinely done at child welfare clinics and at the end of all physical examination of a child during all hospital visits (1). 2.5. COMPLICATIONS / EFFECTS OF UNDERNUTRITION In 2000, the WHO estimated that malnourished children numbered 181.9 million (32%) in developing countries. In addition, an estimated 149.6 million children under 5 years are malnourished when measured in terms of weight for age (2). Approximately 50% of the 10 million deaths each year in developing countries occur because of malnutrition in children under 5 years (2). In kwashiorkor, mortality tends to decrease as the age of onset increases (2). Marasmus usually occurs in children under 5years; this may be due to the fact that this period is characterized by increased energy requirements and increased susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections (2). Also weaning (the gradual withdrawal of breast milk and the commencement of nourishment with other food) occurs during this high-risk period (2). Weaning is usually complicated by geography, socio-economy, hygiene, public health, culture, and dietetics (2). Due to the complex nature of weaning, it could become ineffective when the f oods introduced provide inadequate nutrients, when the food and water are contaminated, when the access to health care is inadequate, and/or when the patient cannot access or purchase proper nourishment (2). Since low intake of calories or an inability to absorb calories is the key factor in the development of kwashiorkor, variety of syndromes could be associated with kwashiorkor (2). Clinically children would have poor weight gain or weight loss (slowing of linear growth) and behavioral changes such as, irritability, apathy (characteristically, the child is apathetic when undisturbed but irritable when picked up), decreased social responsiveness, anxiety, and attention deficit (2). In marasmus, the child appears emaciated with significant loss of subcutaneous fat and muscle wasting. Other features include; xerotic, wrinkled, and loose skin; loss of buccal fat pads given rise to what is called monkey face (2). In protein-energy malnutrition, more hairs are in the telogen (resting) phase than in the anagen (active) phase, a reverse of normal (2). Kwashiorkor typically presents with failure to thrive, edema, moon face, a swollen abdomen (potbelly), and a fatty liver (2). Skin changes are c haracteristic and could progress over few days, thus the skin becomes dark, dry, and then splits open when stretched, revealing pale areas between the cracks(2). Globally, the most common cause of malnutrition is inadequate food intake (2). Preschool-aged children in developing countries are often at risk for malnutrition because of the following factors: their dependence on others for food; increased protein and energy requirements; immature immune systems causing a greater susceptibility to infection; and exposure to non-hygienic conditions (2).Another important factor is ineffective weaning as a result of ignorance, poor hygiene, socio-economic factors, and cultural factors (2). Diseases such as gastrointestinal infections can and often do precipitate clinical protein-energy malnutrition because of associated diarrhea, anorexia, vomiting, increased metabolic needs, and decreased intestinal absorption (2). 2.6. TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF SEVERE UNDERNUTRITION In the first step in the treatment of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM), which is also known as the initial phase/stabilization phase, the aim of treatment is to correct fluid and electrolyte abnormalities and to treat any infections (2). Macronutrient repletion or dietary treatment with F75 and F100 should be commenced within 48 hours under the supervision of nutrition specialists (2). Other treatment action in this stage includes, correcting hypoglycemia, hypothermia and dehydration among others. The second step in the treatment, referred to us the rehabilitation phase, may be delayed 24-48 h in children. The aim is to supply macronutrients by dietary therapy to rapidly replenish the energy stores depleted by malnutrition (2). After a week, intake rates should approach 175 kcal/kg and 4 g/kg of protein for children (2). A daily multivitamin should also be added (2). Any child who is at risk of nutritional deficiency should be referred to a registered dietitian or other nutritional professional for a complete nutritional assessment and dietary counseling (2). Subspecialty referrals should be considered if the underlying cause is not poor nutritional intake e.g. if clinical findings indicate malabsorption, a gastroenterologist should be consulted (2). Children with poor nutrition as a result of inadequate intake and/or neglect should be referred to the appropriate social agencies to assist the family in obtaining resources and providing ongoing care for the child (2). The last phase which is ignored by most health workers is the follow up, its to be done at appropriate intervals to enable the child and mother/caregiver pair to have counseling and guidance. 2.7. CHILD MALNUTRITIONAL STUDIES In a randomized community based trial of the effects of improved, centrally processed complementary foods on growth and micronutrient status, infants fed with weanimix had better iron stores and vitamin A status than those fed on nonfortified foods(13) . Therefore, mothers practicing complementary feeding should be encouraged to use fortified foods such as weanimix, NAN 1e.t. c. The study, however used limited food variety and also did not include simple local foods like groundnut paste, millet e.t.c. As said by a case-control study, on Risk factors for severe acute malnutrition in children under the age of five, there is an association between severe acute malnutrition and inappropriate infant and young child feeding practices (16). This suggests that, adequate or proper child feeding practices could prevent childhood undernutrition. Hence efforts, aimed at reducing child undernutrition needs to emphasize the proper feeding of children. In reference to a study on undernution as an underlying cause of child deaths associated with diarrhea, pneumonia, malaria, and measles, significant proportion of deaths in young children worldwide is attributable to low weight-for-age (underweight). The study also showed, 52.5% of all deaths in young children were attributable to undernutrition, which is different form 44.8% for deaths because of measles to 60.7% for deaths because of diarrhea (). This shows that, the fight against childhood killer disease should involve the fight against undernutrition since it is a significant co-morbidity for child mortality. A different study, on a multilevel analysis of individual and community effect on chronic childhood malnutrition , revealed that individual and community characteristics are important predictors of childhood malnutrition(). This indicates that, there are individual factors which are dependent on the child as well as environmental factors which are determined by the community. Thus the geographical location as well as individual traits could predispose a child to undernutrition. Another study also revealed that, Household Food Security is inversely proportional to undernutrition (). This indicates that once food security levels in households increases, the prevalence of undernutrition decreases. Several factors affects food security, such factors includes; conflicts, war, political instability, famine, poor food storage systems e.t.c. In this regard, policies addressing these factors will improve food security levels in the country which will intern improve child undernutrition. A crosectional study on potentially modifiable micro-environmental and co-morbid factors associated with severe wasting and stunting in children , identified social class and feeding practices as the significant risk factors associated with wasting (). This indicates that, improving the living standard of citizenry ultimately improves the incidence of childhood undernutrition. A research on Prevalence of Malnutrition and Effects of Maternal Age, Education and Occupation Amongst Children showed high prevalence of stunting, medium wasting and underweight had no statistically significant association with educational level and occupation of the mothers(). Thus indicating that, mothers/caregivers do not need to have high educational level or white color job to prevent or reduce child undernutrition. Therefore, policies aimed at educating mothers/caregivers should be directed to everyone without prejudice of the persons work or educational level. 2.8. CONCLUSION Child undernutrition is a problem that affects individual, society, ethical, moral and political levels. Factors associated with it cuts across socio-demographic, health and geographical location. CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY 3.1. Study design: This was a crosectional study involving 100 child and mother/caregiver pair sampled from five health facilities randomly selected. The study was conducted over a one month period. Mothers/Caregivers of children between 6months and 24months old were eligible for participation and were randomly selected after they had consented. 3.2. Study setting: The Cape Coast Metropolitan is bounded on the south by the Gulf of Guinea, west by the Komenda / Edina / Eguafo /Abrem Municipal, east by the Abura/Asebu/Kwamankese District and north by the Twifu/Hemang/Lower Denkyira District (4). The Metropolis covers an area of 122 square kilometers and is the smallest metropolis in the country and is also the capital city of the Central Region of Ghana (4). The total population of the cape coast metropolis is 217,032 with a population growth rate of3.1%(5). Generally, there are two rainy seasons in the metropolis (4). The peak of the major season is in June (4). The vegetation is divided into dry coastal savanna stretching about 15 km inland, and a tropical rain forest with various reserve areas (5). The major economic activities are agriculture andfishing (5). 3.3. Samples seize: The formular used in calculating the sample seize is: Sample Size = n [1 + (n/population)] Where n = Z ÃÆ'- Z [P (1-P)/(DÃÆ'-D)] P = True proportion of factor in the population, or the expected frequency value D = Maximum difference between the sample mean and the population mean, Or Expected Frequency Value minus (-) Worst Acceptable Value Z = Area under normal curve corresponding to the desired confidence level The prevalence of undernutrition among children under 5 years in Ghana was 28.60% at the end .of 2008 (3). The population of children between 6months and 24 months of age registered at the health facilities within the cape coast metropolis, attending child welfare clinic is 238. The desired confidence level used was 95% with the value of Z = 1.960, from the confidence level. The confidence limit (D) of 4% (i.e.  ±4). Hence, n= 1.960ÃÆ'-1.960[0.286 (1-0.286)/(0.04ÃÆ'-0.04)] = 489.804 Therefore sample seize = 489.804 = 160.1714 [1+(489.804/238)] Hence the sample seize was ~ 160. 3.4. Sampling: There are ten health facilities within the cape coast metropolitan catchment area. These ten health facilities include both rural and urban Health centers, CHIP centers, University hospital, Metropolitan hospital and a Regional hospital. These health facilities were subjected to random selection and five of them were selected to participate in the study. The random selection was done by assigning all the facilities to numbers and these numbers were written separately on small sheets of papers and folded. Five different individuals, who are have no idea about the study nor were the health facilities involved, at separate times asked to pick one of the folded papers. All the health facilities had equal chance of selection. The selected health facilities included the Central Regional Hospital, Akotokyire CHPS Center, Adisadel Urban Health Ce

Friday, September 20, 2019

The Success of the First Crusade

The Success of the First Crusade The first crusade was a military expedition by European Christians to regain the holy lands and occurred in 1095. It was viewed as an unprecedented success by historians of the day and by contemporary historians. The reasons for this great success, if it can be named great at all, are numerous. From Pope Urban IIs fiery call to arms at the Council of Clermont, to the lack of preparation from the Turks, there are many reasons for this success. Indeed the extreme faith displayed by the crusaders, the quality of their leaders, and the allies which they gained during their extensive journey were further factors which contributed to their success. After receiving the call for military aid from Alexius I, the Byzantine Emperor in 1095, Pope Urban II seized upon this opportunity for him to renew Papal control and influence in the east and to reunite the churches of Rome and Constantinople. Through his highly charismatic sermon given on 27th November 1095 at the Council of Clermont, Urban was able to arouse enthusiasm from the clergy and nobles present for a Holy War on the Muslims in the east. They then went out to their diocese and spread the command of a call to arms from God. This call to arms created a huge influx of people from all works of life and they were all keen to embark on this pilgrimage to the holy land. This was a good thing as more people would mean a larger army for which to defeat the Muslims with. However a lot of people who showed enthusiasm for this pilgrimage were not knights or trained soldiers but were ordinary men, women and children, and so they can be seen as more of a hindrance than of help. On the o ther hand, by there being women, usually wives, on the journey they would have undoubtedly helped the men on this hazardous journey by providing them with the necessary motivation needed to complete this pilgrimage. However the crusaders did not answer the call for arms from Pope Urban likely; they knew that it would be an arduous journey. But for most it was their undoubted faith which made them embark on this journey and it was faith which was a key factor that carried them to Jerusalem. Until recently it has been thought that one of the main motives for people embarking on the crusade was power and profit which could be gained in the supposedly lucrative east. But contemporary historians now believe that a lot of the crusaders were just devout Christians and wished to secure their place in heaven which the Pope had stated would happen if they liberated Jerusalem from the infidel. Faith is a powerful tool; it can make people push beyond their limits and to achieve unattainable goals, as is stated by Setton and Baldwin ‘without zeal and a burning faith it could never have been achieved and hence it was definitely a positive factor in helping the success of the crusaders. The crusaders wer e from all different parts of Europe and spoke many different languages. It was their belief in achieving the one aim of capturing Jerusalem that made them work effectively together as a fighting force. This can be seen when the crusaders captured Antioch. As soon as they captured Antioch, after a gruelling siege of seven months, the crusaders themselves were besieged by an army of Kerbogha of Mosuls. The crusaders were hungry and tired. Furthermore their morale was dangerously low, they were fighting night and day to keep the besiegers out, and just when they thought that all was lost a minor monk called Peter Bartholomew claimed to have discovered the holy lance in the city. This was enough of a sign to give the crusaders faith that they would win and made them fight on. On June 28th they defeated Kerboghas forces. This is a prime example to prove that it was their faith which encouraged the Crusaders to go forth and to face the enemy head on instead of giving up. The first crusaders were indeed many but they were in foreign lands, far away from home and without a reliable source of supplies and so it was important for them to make allies within the region. Though there were some troubles between the crusaders and the Byzantines, the Byzantine Emperor Alexius I was very willing to help the crusaders with supplies, a small military force and engineers. The engineers were extremely useful and necessary for the building of siege engines from which they made the capture of towns much easier. Hence the alliance with Alexius was a necessity for the success of the crusade. A further asset to the crusaders was the help from the Armenians. With their help some of the crusaders were able to conquer Edessa and hence form the first of the crusader states called the County of Edessa of which Baldwin was their ruler. Also it was an Armenian guard who Bohemond bribed at Antioch to open the cities gates. Furthermore, it was also an Armenian commander who help ed the crusaders capture Jerusalem by surrendering his tower on the main walls to them. Otherwise the crusaders quite possibly would have had to have gone through a lengthy siege in which many of them would have died. Baldwin of Boulogne also had an Armenian called Pakrad on his staff whom he relied on for advice on the area and the diplomatic stance between states and rulers. Another main ally who the crusaders had but were not as prominent was the Christian people who were already there. They tried their best to help the crusaders by giving them what provisions they could spare and by trying to help overthrow the garrisons of towns of which the crusaders were trying to capture. But there is evidence that a lot of Christians within these Muslim states were quite content with their Muslim overlords and so were not keen in helping a foreign army even if it was a Christian one. Another key factor which can be seen during the first crusade is that of the competency of the crusaders leadership. The crusaders were in the hands of experienced princes whom had seen combat in various wars. This can be seen through the tactics which they employed, such as them used on June 30th 1097 when Bohemonds army was surrounded by a Turkish army. The papal legate Adhemar of Le Puy performed an ingenious diversion of crossing the mountains to flank the enemy and come up on their rear, ‘which caused them to flee in panic and confusion'[1]. But even though the crusaders leaders were highly skilled at leading they were not always a unifying force. There was a growing tension between Raymond and Bohemond. But other than that there was not much quarrelling within the army itself. Some of the main leaders were driven to a degree by their own ambition and this sometimes led to atrocities occurring. An example of this is the massacre of 300 Norman troops who Baldwin of Boulogne had forced to camp outside the walls of his newly captured town of Tarsus because he did not trust them and hence they were slaughtered by the towns former garrison under nightfall. But through all of the bad decisions, most of the time when they were needed to unify and attack together they did just that. They worked as one army, even if they disagreed on tactics when they assaulted and besieged major cities such as Antioch and Jerusalem. Indeed the assault on Jerusalem was impeded time wise by the arguing between the leaders over who should be given Antioch, but when they eventually got there the remaining princes worked together to gain success. But the fact that most of the princes true ambitions lay in their own personal gain is shown by Bohemond who selfishly never took any further part in the crusade after becoming Prince of Antioch. He never even went to Jerusalem. This was a major reason in why it took so long for the crusaders to take Antioch, because Raymond had wanted t o storm the city but Bohemond refused and wanted to besiege it even though there wasnt enough troops to encircle the city. Bohemonds decision to siege was due to his own greed; he wanted Antioch for himself and so wanted it intact. The siege was perhaps harder on the crusaders than the defenders as they quickly ran out of food which led to desertion and cannibalism. Even though these blasphemous events were occurring, Bohemond still held the siege which shows that he didnt care much about the religious side to the crusade but by taking Antioch he did succeed in completing his own agenda and furthered the crusaders cause. One of the most important reasons for the success of the first crusade was the disunity within the Muslim nations in and around the holy land and their underestimation of the threat to which the crusaders posed. During the time of the first crusade, Anatolia, Syria, Palestine, and Egypt were all under Muslim control. But they were politically and, to some extent, culturally fragmented and hence this would have certainly contributed to the success of the first crusade. These differences can be seen through the internal rivalry which had been going on between competing territories. Anatolia and Syria were controlled by the Sunni Seljuks, and used to be unified in one big empire but in 1092 Malik-Shah, the Seljuk sultan, died and his sons quarrelled over who would succeed him. So the sultans once large empire was split between the competing sons. Hence when the crusaders came marching through, these states were on the whole more concerned with consolidating their own territories and gai ning control of their neighbours, than with cooperating against the crusaders. There was also a failure to react quickly enough to the crusading threat by the Turks and the rest of the Muslim states. During the Peoples crusade The Turkish king Kilij Arslans capital, Nicaea was situated close to where the crusaders were based. He was happy enough to watch them ravage the countryside but as soon as they threatened his city he easily defeated them. This easy defeat of the Christian forces lulled him into a false sense of security. When he heard that another Christian force had amassed at Constantinople he assumed that it would be of the same type of incompetent soldiers as before and so took the majority of his army to attack a rival state, ‘he had not foreseen that the crusading army would be so strong'[2]. This same sort of misconception of the crusading forces was common among many of the Muslim leaders, and hence played a major part in the success of the first crusade. This can be proven by the failure of the second crusade. It contained around the same amount of people as the first crusade but by this time the Muslim leaders were more prepared and swiftly defeated the crusaders in two battles[3]. Even though the main reason for the success of the first crusade was the disunity between the Muslim states, all of the factors mentioned contributed to the crusades success. The crusaders allies played their part in helping the crusaders to succeed in their goals. Also the faith of the people played a major part. Their faith cannot be underestimated, it kept them going and forced them onwards to Jerusalem; it was their faith which stopped them from turning back even when they were dying from starvation and disease. It was ultimately their faith which drove them to succeed. Bibliography Asbridge, T. S. , The First Crusade: A New History,(London, 2004). Baldwin, M. W. ed. , A History of the Crusades Volume I: The First Hundred Years, (Philadelphia, 1958), pp. 177 343. Phillips, J. P. , The First Crusade: Origins and Impact, (Manchester, 1997). Phillips, J. P. , ‘Who Were the First Crusaders?, History Today 47:5 (Manchester, 1997), pp. 16-22. Riley-Smith J. , The Crusades: Idea and Reality 1095-1274, (London, 1981). Riley-Smith, J. , The First Crusade and the idea of crusading, (London, 1986). Rochester, R. W. , Military Operations in the First Crusade 1097-1099 A.D.,(Liverpool, 1955). Runciman, S. , The First Crusade, (Cambridge, 1980). Wolf, K. B. , ‘Crusade and Narrative: Bohemond and the Gesta Francorum, Journal of Medieval History 17 (Oxford, 1991), pp. 207-16. [1] M. W. Baldwin, ed. , A History of the Crusades Volume I: The First Hundred Years, (Philadelphia, 1958), p. 293. [2] M. W. Baldwin, ed. , A History of the Crusades Volume I: The First Hundred Years, (Philadelphia, 1958), p. 289. [3] J. Riley-Smith , The Crusades: Idea and Reality 1095-1274, (London, 1981), p. 14.