Mrs. Jones Unit 1 Vocabulary

**Caste System**

Social class structure in India that is determined by birth.

Brahmins

\#1 in caste system. Priests, Academics

Kshatriyas

\#2 in caste system. Rulers, Administrators, Warriors

Vaishyas

\#3 in caste system. Artisans, Tradesmen, Farmers, Merchants

Shudras

\#4 in caste system. Manual Laborers

Dalits

Very bottom of caste system. “untouchables”, Street cleaners

**Hinduism**

Oldest religion that is still practiced today. Is primarily focused on connecting to the supreme god, Brahman, and bettering oneself to escape the cycle of reincarnation

**Sanskrit**

Ancient Indo-European language of India in which Hindu scriptures are written

**Vedas**

Most ancient Hindu scriptures

**Nirvana**

Final goal of Buddhism. There is neither suffering, desire, nor sense of self. The subject is released from the effects of karma and the cycle of death and rebirth.

**Lateen Sail**

Triangular sail set, used especially on the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean trade routes

**Monsoon Winds**

Seasonal winds of the Indian Ocean, blowing from the southwest in summer and from the northeast in winter. Used to help merchants trade.

**Caravans**

A group of travelers, such as merchants or pilgrims, journeying together for safety in passing through deserts and/or hostile territorities.

**Satrap**

A governor of a province in ancient Persian

**Confucianism**

Philosophical and ethical teachings founded by Confucius. Created a structure for social life/politics based on responsibility and moral character.

**Filial Piety**

In Confucianism the important virtue and primary duty of respect, obedience, and care for one's elderly family members.

**Taoism/Daoism**

Chinese philosophy based on the writings of Lao-tzu that emphasized the idea that there is a balance in nature.

**Silk Road**

A network of trade routes across Eurasia, connecting east Asia with the Mediterranean Sea.

**Hellenistic**

The spread of Greek history, language, and culture under Alexandar the Great’s reign.

**Stoicism**

Greek philosophy that preached good citizenship.

pax

peace

**Democracy**

Government system by the people. Citizen are able to vote for their elected officials

**Monarchy**

Ruled by one person-typically a king, queen or emperor.

**Oligarchy**

Ruled by only a few select people, usually held by strong military leaders.

**Theocracy**

System of government in where government and religion are intertwind

**Tyranny**

Cruel and oppressive government or rule.

**Islam**

Monotheistic faith regarded as revealed through Muhammad as the Prophet of Allah. Followers are called Muslims.

**Sunni**

A sect in Islam. Democractic vote in electing a leader that is NOT necessairly linked to Muhammad.

**Shia/Shitte**

A sect in Islam. Elects leader linked to Muhammad’s lineage

\

**Torah**

Holy Book of Judaism. Law of God revealed to Moses.

**Synagogues**

Jewish place of worship & congregation

**Western Wall**

Only remaining portion of the ancient Jewish synagogues. One of the most holy sites of Jewish religion.

\