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Four major contemporary civilizations in Southeast Asia?

1. Austronesian

The Austronesian civilization is the largest and most widespread of the four major civilizations in Southeast Asia. It stretches from Taiwan and the Philippines in the north to New Zealand and Easter Island in the south, and from Madagascar in the west to Hawaii in the east. The Austronesian peoples share a common ancestry and many cultural similarities, such as the use of outrigger canoes, the practice of wet rice agriculture, and the construction of longhouses.

2. Indic

The Indic civilization is centered in India and has had a profound influence on the cultures of Southeast Asia. The introduction of Hinduism and Buddhism from India had a major impact on the region's religious and cultural development. Indian art, architecture, and literature can be seen throughout Southeast Asia, and many Southeast Asian languages have borrowed heavily from Sanskrit, the classical language of India.

3. Chinese

The Chinese civilization has also had a significant influence on Southeast Asia. Chinese traders and settlers have been present in the region for centuries, and China has played a major role in the development of Southeast Asia's economy and trade. Chinese culture has also influenced the arts, literature, and cuisine of Southeast Asia.

4. Islamic

The Islamic civilization was introduced to Southeast Asia by Arab traders in the 13th century. Islam quickly spread throughout the region, and it is now the predominant religion in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. Islam has had a major impact on the social, political, and cultural development of Southeast Asia.

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