China and its Neighboring Civilizations

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on China's history, its neighboring civilizations, and their cultural exchanges.

Song Dynasty

A period known as a Golden Age characterized by cultural achievement, stability, and the rise of neo-Confucian ideas.

Civil Service Exams

Examinations used in the Song Dynasty to select government officials, promoting meritocracy but benefitting mainly the wealthy.

Foot Binding

A practice that began in the 10th century as a symbol of status among elite women, signifying beauty and control but also inflicting pain.

Tributary System

A system in which neighboring states acknowledge the superiority of a more powerful state and pay tribute in exchange for trade opportunities and protection.

Bushido

The code of conduct associated with the samurai class in Japan, emphasizing loyalty, bravery, and honor.

Cultural Borrowing

The practice of adopting cultural elements from another civilization; seen in Korea and Japan's adaptation of Chinese ideas and practices.

Champa Rice

A quick-maturing, drought-resistant rice variety that contributed significantly to population growth in China.

Shinto

The indigenous religion of Japan, centered around the worship of kami, or sacred spirits associated with nature.

Kami

Spirits in Shinto belief, considered to be connected with natural elements and ancestral spirits.

Maritime Southeast Asia

Region characterized by the rise of trade empires like Srivijaya, which thrived on controlling trade routes and engaging in commerce.