Civilizations and Their Achievements

These flashcards cover key historical terms and concepts related to ancient civilizations, their governments, cultures, and technological advancements.

Bookbinding

The process of making books, specifically using thin strips of wood to bind pages together.

Great Wall of China

Originally built as a defensive barrier against tribal invasions, it started in the 7th century BCE and is not visible from space.

Zhou Dynasty

A Chinese dynasty that ruled for several centuries, beginning around 100 BCE, notable for its concepts like the Mandate of Heaven.

Mandate of Heaven

A philosophical concept in Chinese political theory that justified the rule of the emperor as divinely ordained.

Feudalism

A social structure prevalent in ancient China where lords owned land and provided protection to vassals in exchange for service.

Oracle Bones

Bones used during the Shang Dynasty for divination, with inscriptions that sought guidance from ancestors.

Bronze

A metal alloy that became significant for weapons and tools in ancient civilizations due to its strength and durability.

Huang He River

Also known as the Yellow River, it was vital for agriculture in ancient China and is prone to flooding, referred to as 'China's sorrow'.

Harappan Civilization

An ancient civilization located in the Indus River Valley, known for its advanced urban planning and undeciphered script.

Pyramids

Monumental structures built in ancient Egypt primarily as tombs for pharaohs, reflecting the civilization's architectural prowess.

Polytheism

The belief in many gods, which was prevalent among the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt.

Epic of Gilgamesh

One of the oldest known pieces of literature, telling the story of Gilgamesh and reflecting ancient Sumerian culture.

Cuneiform

A system of writing developed by the Sumerians, using wedge-shaped characters inscribed on clay tablets.

Diaspora

The dispersion of Jews outside of Israel, particularly after the destruction of the First Temple.

Agricultural Revolution

A period marked by the transition from hunting and gathering to settled agricultural societies, leading to the rise of civilizations.