APUSH Unit 1: Indigenous Societies and Cultures (1491-1607)

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts from Unit 1 of APUSH related to Indigenous societies and their development prior to European contact.

1491

The year before Columbus arrived in the Americas.

1607

The establishment of Jamestown

Semi-sedentary

A lifestyle characterized by partial reliance on agriculture and seasonal migration.

Maize

A staple crop that became crucial for various Indigenous groups, leading to increased population and trade.

Mississippian Society

A complex society located in river valleys with rich soil, known for its agricultural practices.

Cahokia

A major urban center with a population ranging from 10,000 to 20,000, part of the Mississippian culture.

Tenochtitlan

The capital of the Aztec Empire located in Central Mexico.

Iroquois

A group of Indigenous peoples in the Northeast known for their complex political systems.

Social Diversification

The process where societies develop hierarchies and organizational structures.

Permanent Settlements

Communities that establish fixed residences based on agricultural success.

Irrigation Techniques

Advanced methods used by Indigenous societies to manage water for agriculture.