Key Concepts of Early Civilizations

This set of flashcards covers key concepts from ancient civilizations, their innovations, cultural practices, and significant figures.

What geographical feature gave Mesopotamia its nickname 'The Land Between Two Rivers'?

The Tigris River to the north and the Euphrates River to the south.

What is the Neolithic Revolution?

The transition from hunting and gathering communities to agriculture and settled societies.

Who was Hammurabi and what is he known for?

He was a Babylonian king known for establishing one of the earliest written legal codes, the Code of Hammurabi.

What was the significance of the Sumerians in ancient Mesopotamia?

They flourished as one of the first independent city-states and are credited with many innovations, including the wheel and cuneiform writing.

What were ziggurats?

Temples built in ancient Mesopotamia, made out of mud bricks and dedicated to their gods.

Which civilization is known for the development of pyramids, mummification, and hieroglyphic writing?

Ancient Egypt.

What were the Hanging Gardens of Babylon?

A grand architectural feat and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, built during the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar II.

What major change occurred during the classical Greek era?

The establishment of democracy in Athens, a system of government run by the people.

Who are three notable Greek philosophers?

Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

What was unique about the Aztec calendar system?

It consisted of two linked wheels, one with 20 symbols representing days and another with numbers 1 through 13, marking a total of 260 days for its religious calendar.

What is the main architectural achievement of the Inca civilization?

Their sophisticated stone structures, including temples and fortresses, exemplified by Machu Picchu.

What role did trade play in the success of the Islamic Empire?

It was the main industry, helping to spread Islam and Arabic culture across the empire.

How did the Mongol Empire influence trade?

They facilitated trade across Eurasia, connecting markets and cultures via routes like the Silk Road.

What is the significance of the title 'Sapa Inca'?

It refers to the supreme leader of the Inca Empire.

What form of agriculture was developed by the Aztecs to farm in challenging terrains?

Terracing and chinampas, or floating gardens.