Everyone has their own definition of what is heritage. GSEConnect believes that heritage is the legacy of physical attributes, artifacts, customs and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations, maintained in the present, utilized and protected for the benefit of future generations. Sometimes, what is considered heritage by one generation may be rejected by the next generation, only to be revived by a succeeding generation.

Physical or “tangible cultural heritage” includes buildings and historic places, monuments, artifacts, etc., that are considered worthy of preservation for the future. These include objects significant to the archaeology, architecture, science or technology of a specific culture. “Natural heritage” is also an important part of a culture, encompassing the countryside and natural environment, including flora and fauna, scientifically know as biodiversity. Physical and Natural heritage sites often serve as an important component in a city, state or country’s tourist industry, attracting many visitors from abroad as well as locally.

The heritage that survives from the past is often unique and irreplaceable, which places the responsibility of preservation on the current generation. Smaller objects such as artworks and other cultural masterpieces are collected in museums and art galleries. Profit and Non-Profit organizations working together and political groups have been successful at gaining the necessary support to preserve the heritage of many people and nations for the future.

Significant was the Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage that was adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO in 1972. As of 2008, there are 878 World Heritage Sites: 678 cultural, 174 natural, and 26 mixed properties, in 145 countries. Each of these sites is considered important to the international community.

A broader definition includes intangible aspects of a particular culture, often maintained by social customs during a specific period in history. The ways and means of behavior in a society, and the often formal rules for operating in a particular cultural climate. These include social values and traditions customs and practices, aesthetic and spiritual beliefs, artistic expression, language and other aspects of human activity. The significance of physical artifacts can be interpreted against the backdrop of socioeconomic, political, ethnic, religious and philosophical values of a particular group of people. Naturally, intangible cultural heritage is more difficult to preserve than physical objects.

Heritage finds common expressions in media and entertainment namely in fashion, music, sports and film. History will always have a particular influence on media and entertainment.

As you can see, Heritage is an important influencer of the media and entertainment industry. We participate in it; we are part of creating it. Heritage and its influence spans all of our market niches, urban, anime/comic, fine art, toys and games, etc.

Our niche heritage networks are where our members participate in the creating and impacting of tomorrow’s history and strive to protect educate others on our heritage. Post your content, comments and thoughts about your heritage, its music, its fashion history, locations, buildings share with others interested in heritage.

GSEConnect has positioned itself in the mainstream of global media and entertainment with its heritage and western social networks.

Join one or more communities where you can contribute your pictures, works and your thoughts while keeping track of what’s going on in this heritage and western niche.