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The People of Hong Kong
The 1995 population in Hong Kong was roughly 6 million, with 98% of the population
being Cantonese (Chinese). The lowest point in Hong Kong's population
during British rule, was during World War II with the Japanese occupying the
city. After the war, with the changeover of mainland China
to Communism, many Chinese moved to Hong Kong. This was the
beginning of Hong Kong's population and economical boom.
For the most part, Asians have a strong work ethic: they work hard thus
putting a lot of energy into what they do. As a result, Hong Kong has
benefited by becoming a tremendous economic force in the world. In spite
of the fact that many wealthy Chinese have taken on Western ways, they still
uphold their traditional beliefs, and Confucianism's role in societal
relationships.
With the eminent turnover of Hong Kong from Britain to China, many Chinese
left to emigrate to other countries such as Australia, the United States and
Canada. Now, those who immigrated are
returning, but secure with the fact that they have citizenship or permanent
residency outside of
China.
Three religions, or some elements from each, define the
religious life of most people in Hong Kong. These religions are
Buddhism, from India, and Taoism and Confucianism from China. Not unlike
other Asian countries with these religions, there is ancestral worship as a
way of honoring the dead ancestors. Hong Kong also has representation of
almost all the main religions in the world.
AsianInfo on China
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