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.