World Unit 1 Vocab

Neolithic Revolution

The Neolithic Revolution was a period around 10,000 BCE when humans transitioned from nomadic hunting and gathering to settled agriculture, leading to the development of towns and civilizations.

domestication

The process of adapting wild plants and animals for their benefit, crucial to the rise of agriculture during the Neolithic Revolution.

agrarian societies

Societies that are primarily based on agriculture and farming.

pastoralist societies

Societies that rely on the raising and herding of animals for their livelihood.

cultural diffusion

The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another, often through trade, migration, or conquest.

animism

The belief that objects, places, and creatures possess spiritual essence or a soul, often associated with nature.

polytheism

The belief in and worship of multiple gods or deities.

monotheism

The belief in and worship of a single god.

patriarchy

A social system in which men hold primary power, predominating in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.

divine right

The principle that a ruler's authority comes directly from God - not from the consent of the people, justifying their power and governance.

Mandate of Heaven

The ancient Chinese belief that a emperor right to rule is granted by heaven, depending on their ability to govern well and fairly.

dynastic cycle

The pattern of the rise, decline, and replacement of dynasties in Chinese history, influenced by the ruling emperor's ability to rule effectively.

filial piety

The Confucian principle of respect and duty that children owe to their parents and ancestors, emphasizing family loyalty and honoring one's elders.

bureaucracy

A system of government in which state officials make important decisions, rather than elected representatives.

civil service exam

Tests in the Chinese bureaucracy to select government candidates based on ability, promoting competence over social standing.

meritocracy

A system where people earn positions and power based on individual ability or achievement, not family or money.

corvée

System where common people had to work for the government or ruler for a certain number of days each year without pay.

caste system

A social hierarchy in Hindu society where individuals are born into a particular social group/caste, with specific roles and duties for each group.

city-state

Small independent country made up of a city and the surrounding land it controls.

aristocracy

A government ruled by a small group of wealthy and noble families.

Hellenistic culture

A blend of Greek, Egyptian, Persian, and Indian influences that emerged after Alexander the Great's conquests.

republic

A form of government in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions and govern on their behalf.

Jewish diaspora

The spread of Jewish people outside their ancestral homeland, especially after being forced to leave Israel.

Constantinople

The capital city of the Byzantine Empire.

Byzantine Empire

The Eastern Roman Empire that lasted from about 330 AD to 1453 AD.