Asia from Ancient Times to the 1600s

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to early human evolution and civilizations in Asia from ancient times up to the 1600s.

Homo habilis

First species in the Homo group, known as 'Handy Man' and made simple Oldowan tools.

Homo ergaster

An African species that had an 800 cc brain and created Acheulean tools, indicative of higher intelligence.

Homo erectus

The first species to leave Africa; known for walking upright and using fire.

Indigenous Cultures

Cultural systems developed in Asia independent of outside influence before European contact.

Bronze Age

Period characterized by the use of bronze tools and weapons.

Paleolithic

The Old Stone Age, marked by the creation of simple stone tools.

Neolithic

The New Stone Age, significant for the advent of farming and the establishment of villages.

Shang Dynasty

Ancient Chinese dynasty known for bronze works, writing, and a complex social structure.

Oracle bones

The earliest form of Chinese writing used for divination in Shang culture.

Cradle of Civilization

A term referring to Asia, where early civilizations such as Sumer, Indus Valley, and Xia/Shang originated.