In my view the best word would be ethos. Ethos is the set of fundamental values, guiding principles, social practices and beliefs that constitute the character of a particular culture.
They wanted to put a tax on the tea
It was harsh. They had to work on the Manor. They couldn't leave the manor nor be forced off it. The person the serf is working for owes them protection and the serfs give labor and loyalty.
The answer would be : Both countries were colonized, but the united States went on to became major imperial power, and China did not
Until today, United States is regarded as one of the most influential country in the wold while China is somehow secluded from the rest
hope this helps
