South+Asia+Test+Review+Key+2025

Dharma

The teaching of natural law, moral code.

Nirvana

A peaceful, detached state of mind; the main goal of Buddhism.

Subcontinent

A large landmass that is part of a continent but still distinct from it.

Aryans

Light-skinned herders and hunters from Northwest India.

Hinduism

Largest religion in India, characterized by beliefs in three gods: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva; reincarnation, karma, and dharma.

Sikhism

A religion that emphasizes belief in one God, equality among all humans, and includes the 5 K’s.

The 5 K’s of Sikhism

Observances for Sikhs: Kesh (uncut hair), Kanga (comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (chastity), Kirpan (dagger).

Buddhism

A religion founded by Siddhartha Gautama, focusing on achieving Nirvana and understanding the Four Noble Truths.

Four Noble Truths

Core principles of Buddhism: a) All life is suffering; b) Suffering comes from desires; c) Ending desires ends suffering; d) Follow the 8-fold path to Enlightenment.

Jainism

A religion emphasizing five vows, including strict non-violence (ahimsa) and truthfulness.

Summer Monsoons

Rainy season from June to September in South Asia, bringing moisture from the Indian Ocean.

Akbar

Considered the greatest ruler of the Mughal Empire for allowing religious freedom and improving the economy.

Mahatma Gandhi

Indian leader who advocated for self-rule through non-violent resistance against British rule.

Himalaya Mountains formation

Formed by the collision of the Indian plate with the Asian plate.

Gupta Empire

Known as the golden age of India due to significant advancements in arts and sciences.

Ganges River

Sacred river in Hinduism.

Indus River Valley

Site of the largest early civilization in South Asia, known for improvements in sanitation and plumbing.

Deccan Plateau

Landform blocked by the Eastern and Western Ghats, preventing rainfall.

Coral reef destruction in Maldives

Caused by warming waters and commercial use, affecting small ring-like coral islands.

British Imperialism in India

Introduced English language, new educational systems, built railroads, and improved infrastructure.

Khyber Pass

Valley between the Hindu Kush mountains used by travelers entering South Asia; known as a hideout for terrorist groups.

Sri Lanka Civil War

Conflict involving the Tamil minority seeking independence; ongoing violence persists.

Indo-Gangetic Plain

Fertile region created by river systems, home to over 1/7 of the world's population.