AP Modern Review (units 1 & 2) 2021

Silk Road

The most profitable trade network at the time, developed during Han China, connecting China to the Mediterranean.

Mahayana Buddhism

A form of Buddhism that emphasizes the role of bodhisattvas and was promoted in China during the Tang Dynasty.

Neo-Confucianism

A new form of Confucianism that incorporates significant influences from Buddhism and Daoism, developed during the Song Dynasty.

Foot binding

A cultural practice in China during the Song Dynasty where women's feet were painfully bound as a status symbol.

Five Pillars of Islam

The core beliefs of Islam, including belief in one God, prayer five times a day, giving alms, fasting during Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca.

Jihad

An inner struggle to strive in the way of Allah and to improve oneself and society, as well as efforts to defend the Muslim community.

Shariah Law

A code of Islamic law created by Muslim scholars after Muhammad's death, outlining moral behavior and daily life for Muslims.

Umayyad Dynasty

Islamic dynasty (661-750 CE) known for moving the capital to Damascus and spreading Islam to parts of Europe and India.

Abbasid Dynasty

Islamic dynasty (750-1258 CE) noted for moving the capital to Baghdad and achieving significant advancements in various fields.

Khmer Empire

A powerful political state in Southeast Asia (802-1431 CE), notable for its sophisticated governance and the capital city of Angkor.

Angkor Wat

The world’s largest religious complex, believed to have been dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and served as a king’s mausoleum.

Pax Mongolica

The period of peace in the Mongolian Empire (c. 1250-1350) that revitalized interregional trade across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

Cultural diffusion

The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another, exemplified by trade networks like the Silk Road.

Indian Ocean Trade

A maritime trade network connecting China, Southeast Asia, India, East Africa, and the Middle East, facilitating the exchange of goods and cultures.

Sericulture

The production of silk from silkworms, an important industry in ancient China.

Daoism

A philosophical and religious tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao, the fundamental nature of the universe.

Terracotta Army

A collection of terracotta sculptures buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife.

Mandate of Heaven

A Chinese political and religious doctrine used to justify the rule of the Emperor of China, based on the belief that Heaven granted them the right.

Great Wall of China

A series of fortifications built to protect against invasions and raids, symbolizing Chinese strength and unity.

Chinese Dynasties

The successive royal families in China that ruled over different periods, including the Qin, Han, Tang, and Ming dynasties.

Silk Road Trade Goods

Included goods like silk, spices, tea, and precious metals, which connected various cultures along trade routes.

Confucianism

A philosophical system founded by Confucius, emphasizing moral integrity, social harmony, and respect for hierarchy.

Feudal System

A social system that dominated medieval Europe and was characterized by the exchange of land for service, also relevant in ancient China.

Chinese Calligraphy

The art of beautiful handwriting in Chinese culture, considered a vital form of artistic expression.

Opium Wars

Two conflicts (1839-1842, 1856-1860) between Britain and China over trade, leading to significant Western influence in China.

Boxer Rebellion

A nationalist uprising in 1900 aimed at ending foreign influence in China, ultimately suppressed by an international coalition.

Daoist Immortals

Legendary figures in Daoism known for their supernatural abilities and enlightenment, often depicted in Chinese folklore.

Calligraphy Brushes

Essential tools in Chinese calligraphy, traditionally made from animal hair attached to bamboo handles.

Yuan Dynasty

Chinese dynasty established by the Mongols from 1271 to 1368, known for its cultural diversity and economic expansion.

Ming Dynasty

Chinese dynasty (1368-1644) noted for its trade expansion, cultural achievements, and the construction of the Forbidden City.

Qing Dynasty

The last imperial dynasty of China (1644-1912), known for its territorial expansion and encounters with Western powers.

The Analects

A collection of sayings and ideas attributed to Confucius and his disciples, forming a core part of Confucian philosophy.

Chinese New Year

Annual celebration marking the beginning of the lunar new year, characterized by family reunions and various festivities.

Pagoda

A tiered tower with multiple eaves, often seen in East Asian architecture, originally serving religious purposes.