Unit 1: 1200 CE - 1450 CE Review Guide

These flashcards cover the key concepts, terms, and definitions from the lecture notes related to state-building and maintenance from 1200 to 1450 CE.

State-Building

The process of establishing and maintaining a political entity, often referred to as a state.

Song Dynasty

A Chinese dynasty that ruled from 960 to 1276 CE, known for its economic growth and technological advancements.

Confucianism

A philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing moral integrity and the importance of social relationships.

Champa Rice

A fast-maturing, drought-resistant rice variety that significantly boosted agricultural productivity in China during the Song Dynasty.

Abbasid Caliphate

A major Islamic caliphate that ruled from 750 to 1258 CE, known for its cultural, economic, and scientific achievements.

Islamic Political Entities

New powers and states that arose in the Islamic world following the decline of the Abbasid Caliphate.

Dar al-Islam

The term used to describe regions where Islamic law prevails and where Muslim communities can practice their religion freely.

Buddhism

A religion and philosophy based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, focusing on the path to enlightenment and the cessation of suffering.

Aztec Civilization

A Mesoamerican culture that thrived in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th centuries, known for its sophisticated society and empire.

Mississippian Culture

A mound-building Native American culture that developed along the Mississippi River, noted for its complex societies and trade networks.

Great Zimbabwe

A medieval city in Southern Africa known for its impressive stone ruins and as a center of trade and political power.

Manorialism

An economic and social system that was prevalent in medieval Europe, where the lord of a manor exploited the labor of peasants.

Serfdom

A form of labor where peasants were bound to work on a lord's land and were subject to his control.

Feudalism

A hierarchical social and economic system in medieval Europe where land was held by lords in exchange for military service by vassals.