AP World History Unit 1 - Lesson 1.1 (copy)

Song Dynasty

Chinese dynasty from 960 to 1279 known for its advancements in government and economy.

Bureaucracy

A system of government in which officials are appointed to carry out policies; in the Song, it was a meritocracy.

Civil Service Exam

Exams based on Confucian texts that determined eligibility for positions within the bureaucracy.

Grand Canal

A vast internal waterway transportation system that extended over 30,000 miles, enhancing trade and communication in China.

Champa Rice

A drought-resistant and fast-ripening rice from the Champa Kingdom that allowed for year-round farming in China.

Proto-Industrialization

A societal shift toward a more production-based economy before reaching full industrialization, relying on artisans.

Tributary System

Economic system established in the Han Dynasty where states provided tribute to honor the Chinese Emperor.

Kowtow

A ritual where individuals must bow down before the emperor as a sign of respect.

Foot Binding

A practice where young girls had their feet tightly bound to restrict growth, reflecting women’s societal status.

Wood-block Printing

An early form of printing used in China that allowed for rapid reproduction of texts and images.

Theravada Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism focusing on individual spiritual growth and discipline, prevalent in Southeast Asia.

Mahayana Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism emphasizing spiritual growth for all beings, primarily practiced in China and Korea.

Zen Buddhism

A syncretic faith formed from Daoism and Buddhism that emphasizes direct experience and meditation.

Neo-Confucianism

A philosophical movement that incorporates ideas from Buddhism and Daoism, focusing on ethics and nature.

Tale of Genji

Considered the world's first novel, it highlights Japanese culture and the influence of Chinese literature.