Central Asia and Environmental Challenges

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to Central Asia, its environmental challenges, and the historical significance of the Mongol Empire.

Tibetan Plateau

A vast plateau in Central Asia extending over 12,500 miles, important as the source of many major rivers.

Desertification

The process by which fertile land becomes desert, often as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture.

Salinization

The accumulation of salt in soil, which can inhibit plant growth and reduce agricultural productivity.

Kuntor Gold Mine

A significant gold mine in Kurdistan that contributes 7% to the country's output, raising environmental concerns due to its mining practices.

Transhumanism

A traditional lifestyle in which nomadic people move with their livestock between pastures depending on the season.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A way of life characterized by settling in one place, which has become more common for nomadic populations due to government policies.

Mongolian Ger (Yurt)

A traditional tent-like dwelling of Mongolian nomadic people, made of a wooden frame and wool felt.

Silk Road

An ancient network of trade routes that connected the East and West, facilitating economic and cultural exchange.

Chinggis Khan

The founder of the Mongol Empire, known for uniting the Mongol tribes and establishing the largest contiguous empire in history.

Tengiri

The sky god in Mongolian shamanism, believed by Chinggis Khan to have commanded him to conquer the world.

Ilkhanate

A division of the Mongol Empire in Iran, which became noted for its contributions to architecture and Persian painting.

Chagatai Khanate

A Mongol domain in Central Asia that played a crucial role in regional governance and led to the establishment of the Mughal Empire in India.