Review of Ancient Civilizations and Societies

These flashcards cover key concepts and historical events from the lecture, focusing on ancient civilizations and their sociopolitical structures.

What is the chief protection against lawlessness in society, according to the lecture notes?

Fear is our chief protection against lawlessness.

What does the constitution favor in a democracy?

The constitution favors the many instead of the few.

How does Pericles's Funeral Oration emphasize civic participation?

It asserts that all citizens have the right to participate in civic decision-making.

What motivation for the Crusades is highlighted in Pope Urban II's speech?

The promise of religious salvation.

What was the capital city of the Eastern Roman/Byzantine Empire?

Constantinople.

Which characteristic illustrates the Church's power in medieval Europe?

The Church had significant power to influence or limit political rulers.

What was the main reason for the development of the manorial system?

The need for local protection and self-sufficiency.

What was Charlemagne known for achieving?

He briefly created a unified Europe for the first time since the Western Roman Empire fell.

What impact did the Crusades have on Europe despite their original goals not being achieved?

They brought about many desirable changes in Europe.

What led to the spread of Buddhism into East Asia?

Missionary activity supported by long-distance trade.

What did the Hindu caste system indicate about Indian society?

The social classes were very unequal and separated from each other.

What did Siddhartha Gautama aim to discover?

The reason for human suffering.

What principle justified the overthrow of a declining dynasty in ancient China?

The Mandate of Heaven.

What was the impact of geography on the political development of ancient Greece?

Mountainous terrain and large bodies of water led to the formation of independent city-states.

How did Greek democracy differ from modern democracy?

Greek democracy excluded all non-citizens, women, slaves, and foreigners from political participation.

What was a significant result of the assassination of Julius Caesar?

A series of civil wars that resulted in the end of the Republic and the beginning of one-man rule.

What were the economic effects of trade during the Pax Romana?

Trade routes expanded, connecting Rome with regions as far as China, resulting in economic growth.

Why is Constantine's conversion to Christianity considered a significant turning point?

It ended the persecution of Christians and allowed Christianity to become the dominant religion of the Roman Empire.

What were some potential causes for the fall of the Western Roman Empire?

Political instability, invasions by barbarian peoples, inflation, labor shortages, and the decline of trade.