Unit 1 H History

Buddhism

Belief system that started in India in the 500s BC. Happiness can be achieved through removal of one's desires. Believers seek enlightenment and the overcoming of suffering.

Ancient

Referring to the period of recorded history taking place before the medieval era

Han Dynasty

One of China's most powerful dynasties

Sui Dynasty

The dynasty reigning in China from 589-618 AD. Brief period of peace

What is the first Noble Truth of Buddhism?

All life is suffering.

What is the second Noble Truth of Buddhism?

Suffering is caused by non-virtue.

What is the third Noble Truth of Buddhism?

Overcome non-virtue to overcome suffering.

What is the fourth Noble Truth of Buddhism?

Overcome non-virtue through the Eightfold Path.

Virtue

moral excellence

Coup d'Etat

When the leader is overthrown

Tang Dynasty

(618-907 CE) The Chinese dynasty that was much like the Han, who used Confucianism. This dynasty had the equal-field system, a bureaucracy based on merit, and a Confucian education system.

Beuracracy

a system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives.

Tang Taizhong

The son in the duo who overthrew the Sui Dynasty

Empress Wu

Only female emperor in Chinese history.

Gentry

Wealthy landowning class

Religious Landscape of Arabia

Polytheistic tribal society before Islam; Islam introduced monotheism and united the region.

Golden Age of Islam Accomplishments

Advanced in science, medicine, mathematics, and philosophy, racing ahead of medieval neighbors.

Japan's Cultural Borrowing

Early Japan borrowed ideas, art, and writing systems heavily from China and Korea.

Japanese Feudal System Pyramid

Shogun held actual power, Daimyo and Samurai fought for dominance, while peasants were heavily taxed.

Tang and Song Dynasty Advancements

Innovations like printing, gunpowder, and compasses had profound impacts on Chinese society and the world.

Medieval East Asian Religions

Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism shaped society, combining local traditions with imported belief systems.

Feudal Japan Power Struggles

Rival Daimyo and warlords fought for regional dominance, eventually leading to unification under strong leaders.

Golden Age Leaders

Notable leaders included Empress Wu in China, Tang Taizong, and various Abbasid caliphs in the Islamic World.

Golden Age Challenges

Societies faced threats from foreign invasions, internal rebellions, and political corruption during their golden ages.

Local vs. Imported Religions in East Asia

Shinto originated locally in Japan, while Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism were imported from the mainland.