Unit One: Early Civilizations

Modern Humans (Homosapiens)

Species characterized by biological superiority, larger brain capacity, and bipedalism.

Opposable Thumbs

Unique feature of humans that allows for tool manipulation.

Complex Society

Societal structure involving advanced tools, culture, and social organization.

Hunter-gatherers

Early human societies that relied on hunting and gathering for sustenance.

Nomadic Lifestyle

Characteristic of early humans who moved frequently in search of food.

Agriculture (10,000 to 7000 BCE)

Transition from hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities.

Domestication of Animals

Process of taming animals for human use, including food and labor.

Stable Food Supply

Result of agriculture leading to population growth and permanent settlements.

Specialization of Labor

Emergence of various professions beyond food production due to surplus resources.

Patriarchy

Social system where males dominate leadership roles across various sectors.

City-States

Independent urban centers controlling surrounding territories, common in Mesopotamia and Greece.

Persian Empire

Centralized authority under a king, with satraps governing provinces.

Greek City-States

Independent political entities with citizens participating in governance.

Peloponnesian War

Conflict between Greek city-states, primarily Athens and Sparta.

Alexander the Great

Conqueror who spread Greek culture across a vast empire.

Roman Republic

Government system where citizens elected leaders, transitioning from monarchy.

Qin Dynasty

First dynasty to unify China, known for strict legalism and centralization.

Mandate of Heaven

Chinese belief that emperors ruled with divine approval, affecting stability.

Collapse of Rome and Han China

Both empires faced political instability, diseases, and border invasions leading to decline.