Learning Notes 4-5

Lake Baikal

The largest freshwater lake in the world, containing about 20% of the global freshwater supply.

Cyrillic Alphabet

The alphabet adopted by Russia following its conversion to Eastern Orthodox Christianity, distinguishing it from the Latin alphabet.

Kiev Rus

The first significant state of Russia that emerged in the 800s, known for its diverse population and strategic trade significance.

Eastern Orthodox Christianity

The religion to which the Prince of Kiev Rus converted in 988, aiming to unify the diverse populace.

Mongol Rule

The period during which the Mongols controlled Russia through indirect rule by taxing and looting, without permanent administrative presence.

Yasak

The mandatory annual fur tribute required by the Russian state from indigenous families.

Catherine the Great

The Russian ruler in the late 1700s known for her efforts to connect Russia with European Enlightenment thinkers.

Manchu People

The ethnic group from Manchuria that established the Qing Empire after overthrowing the Ming dynasty.

Little Ice Age

A period of cooler climate that led to food shortages and contributed to the fall of the Ming dynasty.

Queue Hairstyle

A hairstyle imposed by the Qing that symbolized Manchu authority over ethnic Chinese, involving a shaved front and long braid at the back.