AP WORLD history unit 2 vocab

Diffusion

the spread of cultural items such as ideas, styles, religions, technologies, and languages between individuals and communities.

Syncretism

the blending of different religious and cultural beliefs to create new practices or ideologies.

Champa rice

A fast-maturing variety of rice from the Champa region of Vietnam that significantly increased agricultural productivity in East Asia during the Song Dynasty.

Astrolabe

An ancient instrument used for solving problems related to time and the position of the stars, often utilized for navigation at sea.

Filial piety

Respect and devotion shown to one's parents and elders.

Caravanserai

A roadside inn for travelers and merchants.

Lateen sails

Triangular sails that allow ships to sail against the wind.

Patriarchy

A social system where men hold the main power.

Proselytize

To try to convert someone to one's religion or belief.

Matrilineal

Tracing descent through the mother's side of the family.

theocracy

A government ruled by religious leaders.

Diaspora

A group of people spread out from their homeland.

Animism

Belief that spirits live in natural objects or phenomena.

Xenophobia

Fear or hatred of foreigners or strangers.

ethnocentrism

Judging other cultures by your own culture's standards.