AP World History Unit 2

Silk Roads

A vast network of trade routes connecting the East to the West, established primarily during the Han Dynasty, facilitating trade of luxury items, especially silk, and the exchange of culture and ideas.

Silk Road

A vast network of trade routes established during the Han Dynasty of China that facilitated trade and the spread of culture and ideas across Eurasia.

Mongol Empire

An empire founded by pastoral nomads that united various Mongol groups and expanded through conquest under the leadership of Chinggis Khan.

Pax Mongolica

A period of peace and stability across the Mongol Empire that facilitated trade and cultural exchange.

Caravanserai

Roadside inns built along trade routes to provide safety and rest for merchants, becoming centers of cultural exchange.

Zheng He

A Chinese explorer commissioned by the Ming Dynasty who commanded voyages to the Indian Ocean, enhancing trade and diplomatic relations.

Trans-Saharan Trade

A network of trade routes that connected North Africa with West Africa, facilitating trade of goods like gold, salt, and slaves.

Cultural Diffusion

The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another, often occurring through trade.

Champa rice

A fast-maturing and drought-resistant rice variety introduced to China which contributed to population growth.

Diasporic Communities

Communities formed by groups of people who have dispersed from their homeland but maintain their cultural traditions in new locations.

Swahili Civilization

A cultural and commercial civilization that emerged along the East African coast, characterized by trade in gold and the use of Islam