Mongol Empire and Trade Routes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the Mongol Empire and trade routes, including significant events, figures, and agricultural developments.

Mongols

Strong due to marriage alliances, fear tactics, and the leadership of Genghis Khan.

Pax Mongolica

A period of relative peace in the Mongol Empire that allowed for increased trade across the Silk Road.

Golden Horde

A Mongol khanate that controlled parts of Ukraine and Russia.

Siege Tactics

Military strategies used by Mongols to surround and capture cities.

Monsoon Winds

Seasonal winds that affect trade in the Indian Ocean.

Strait of Malacca

The most important trade route in the world, controlling trade flow.

Zheng He

A Chinese explorer who traveled across the known world before being stopped by a new government.

Ghana Empire

An empire in West Africa known for controlling gold and salt trade.

Mansa Musa

A ruler of Mali who adopted Islam and is known for distributing gold and impacting economies.

Songhai Kingdom

A later empire in West Africa that partially controlled gold and salt trade.

Religions spread through trade

Mainly Islam and Buddhism, but also Hinduism and partially Christianity.

Black Death

A devastating pandemic that led to the death of many people and caused social and economic changes.

Ibn Battuta

A Muslim traveler who documented his journeys extensively.

Little Ice Age

A period of cooler temperatures that affected agriculture and the environment.

Champa Rice

A fast-maturing rice variety that contributed to agricultural expansion.

Overgrazing

A major environmental issue caused by excessive livestock feeding.