Period 3 – Regional and Transregional Interactions, c. 600 CE to 1450 CE (AP World History)

Flashcards covering major concepts from the notes on Period 3: regional and transregional interactions, including dynastic changes, trade networks, the Mongol era, European developments, and cross-cultural exchanges.

Which Chinese dynasty (618–906) is noted for implementing a merit-based bureaucracy that recruited educated officials?

Tang Dynasty.

What was the Caliphate in Islamic governance?

A theocratic system where the religious and political leader are the same (the caliph) and Sharia law governs.

Name two financial innovations associated with Tang and Song China.

Paper money and flying cash (letters of credit).

Which navigational instrument aided Tang and Song maritime trade?

Magnetic compass.

Which Chinese city became a major trading hub during the Tang and Song periods?

Canton (Guangzhou).

What rice variety allowed two harvests per year in Tang–Song China?

Champa rice.

What factors contributed to urbanization in Tang and Song China?

Agricultural revolution and expanded trade networks leading to larger urban centers.

What is Neo-Confucianism?

A synthesis of Confucianism with Buddhist ideas, introducing the concept of li and reconciling the two traditions.

What event in 1054 split Christianity into Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches?

The Great Schism (icon controversy).

What was the Pax Mongolica?

A period of peace and stability across Eurasia under Mongol rule that facilitated trade.

Who unified the Mongol tribes and founded the Mongol Empire?

Genghis Khan (Temujin).

What were the four Khanates?

The four regional divisions of the Mongol Empire ruled by different relatives, with the Great Khan as overall leader.

Which battle halted Mongol expansion into the Middle East in 1260?

Ain Jalut, where the Mamluks defeated the Mongols.

Who were the Mamluks?

Non-Arab slave soldiers who ruled Egypt and halted Mongol expansion.

What was Zheng He known for?

Leading Ming dynasty treasure voyages to expand trade and diplomacy.

What was the Silk Road?

A vast overland trade route connecting China to the Middle East and Europe, facilitating exchange of goods and ideas.

What goods were central to Indian Ocean trade?

Slaves, ivory, gold, and iron from Africa; porcelain, pottery, textiles from Asia; traded across the Indian Ocean.

What goods moved via Trans-Saharan trade?

Gold, ivory, slaves, and spices exchanged for salt, cloth, and metalware across the Sahara.

What was one major demographic impact of the Black Death in the 14th century?

Massive population loss (up to about 30%), with major economic and social upheaval.

What role did Dar al-Islam play across Afro-Eurasia?

A unifying cultural and economic force due to shared Islam, Arabic language, and Islamic art.

What are key features of Islamic arts and sciences developed during this period?

Arabesque geometric designs, mosques with domes and minarets; advances in algebra, astronomy, and medicine.

Who were Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta?

Two 13th–14th century travelers whose writings broadened Europeans’ and others’ knowledge of Asia and the Islamic world.