History Exam 2

What were the primary governing structures of the Roman Republic?

Consuls, Senate, Assemblies, Tribunes of the Plebs, and Praetors.

How did the Roman Republic maintain checks and balances?

Divided power among different bodies and limited terms of office to share power across institutions.

What was the significance of the Conflict of the Orders?

It was a struggle for greater rights and political access by plebeians, leading to the creation of tribunes.

What major law was established to ensure transparency in the Roman legal system?

The Law of the Twelve Tables.

How did Tiberius Gracchus’s reforms lead to political conflict?

His land redistribution proposal angered senators, leading to his assassination.

What changes did Gaius Marius implement to the Roman military?

He opened recruitment to landless citizens, creating a professional army loyal to generals.

What were Sulla's constitutional reforms?

Restricted tribune powers and strengthened the Senate.

How did Pompey contribute to Rome's expansion?

He expanded territories through military conquests, significantly increasing wealth and influence.

What happened after Julius Caesar's assassination?

It led to a power vacuum and the eventual establishment of the Second Triumvirate.

How did the Battle of Pharsalus affect Caesar's rise to power?

It was a decisive victory that enabled Caesar to consolidate power in Rome.

What role did Cleopatra play in her alliances with Caesar and Antony?

She sought to strengthen her rule in Egypt and expand influence in the Eastern Mediterranean.

What was the outcome of Octavian's victory at the Battle of Actium?

It marked the end of the Roman Republic and established Octavian as the first emperor.

What characterized the Pax Romana?

A period of peace, economic prosperity, and stability across the Roman Empire.

What reforms did Diocletian implement?

He divided the Empire and established a Tetrarchy to improve administration.

How did Constantine I affect Christianity in the Roman Empire?

He legalized Christianity and promoted it, shaping the future religious landscape.

What was the Edict of Milan's impact on religious policies?

It granted religious freedom and marked a shift towards accepting Christianity.

What role did Paul of Tarsus play in early Christianity?

He spread Christian teachings across the Roman Empire and emphasized inclusivity.

What were the effects of the Edict of Thessalonica?

It established Christianity as the state religion, suppressing pagan practices.

How did Germanic tribes contribute to the fall of the Western Roman Empire?

Military attacks weakened borders and led to economic strain and territorial loss.

What is Odoacer's significance in Roman history?

He deposed the last Roman emperor, marking the traditional end of the Western Roman Empire.

What were Justinian I's contributions to the Byzantine Empire?

He compiled Justinian's Code, expanded territories, and commissioned the Hagia Sophia.

How did the Nika Revolt affect Justinian's rule?

It ultimately strengthened his power after he suppressed the uprising.

What was the significance of Muhammad’s Hegira?

It marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar and established a Muslim community in Medina.

What were the outcomes of the Battle of Yarmuk?

Secured Muslim control over Syria and marked the beginning of Muslim expansion.

How did the Abbasid Caliphate contribute to the Golden Age of Islam?

By promoting scholarship and cultural syncretism, leading to advancements in various fields.

What were the cultural achievements of the Tang Dynasty?

Significant advancements in poetry, art, technology, and control of the Silk Road.

What was the impact of the Battle of Talas on Chinese-Islamic relations?

Limited Tang expansion and facilitated the spread of papermaking to the Islamic world.

What was the significance of the Maya calendar system?

It was crucial for agricultural planning, religious rituals, and historical record-keeping.

How did astronomy influence Maya civilization?

It guided agricultural practices, temple alignments, and was central to ritual ceremonies.

What was the concept of Maya 'Star Wars'?

Wars conducted based on celestial events, reinforcing rulers' religious and political authority.

What are the primary theories for the collapse of the Maya civilization?

Environmental degradation, droughts, warfare, overpopulation, economic decline, and political fragmentation.