AP World History: Networks of Exchange and Land Based Empires

Flashcards covering key concepts from AP World History regarding networks of exchange and land-based empires.

What were the three major networks of exchange from December to 1450?

The Silk Roads, the Indian Ocean Network, and the Trans Saharan Trail.

Why did merchants prefer trading luxury goods on the Silk Roads?

It was expensive and arduous to travel long distances, making it more profitable to trade high-value items.

What was the role of caravan sarai along the Silk Roads?

They provided inns and guesthouses for merchants, facilitating safety and cultural exchanges.

What was the significance of the money economy developed in China?

It allowed merchants to deposit and withdraw paper money, making trade easier and more secure.

What types of goods were primarily traded along the Indian Ocean Network?

More common goods, such as textiles and spices, as well as some luxury items.

What technological advancements aided the expansion of the Indian Ocean Network?

Improvements in the magnetic compass, astrolabe, and ship designs like the Chinese junk.

What was the effect of the Swahili city-states on trade?

They brokered goods from the African interior and became wealthy and powerful through trade.

How did the Mongol Empire facilitate trade across Eurasia?

By providing safety and encouraging trade along the Silk Roads, leading to an increase in commerce.

What was the Pax Mongolica?

The period of peace established by the Mongols which allowed for increased trade and communication.

What caused the diffusion of gunpowder across empires?

Gunpowder was invented in China and spread through trade networks to various regions, altering military power dynamics.

What were some consequences of increased connectivity during December to 1450?

Cultural diffusion of religions and ideas, rise and fall of cities, and transfer of crops and diseases.

What was a major cultural transfer during this period?

The spread of Buddhism into China via the Silk Roads.

How did increased trade affect the city of Hangzhou?

Hangzhou became wealthier and more urbanized due to trade facilitations.

What was significant about Ibn Battuta’s travels?

He documented his extensive travels across Dar Al Islam, providing valuable historical insights.

What agricultural advancement significantly impacted food production in China?

The introduction of Champa rice, which increased food supplies and population growth.

What disease was spread via trade routes during this period?

The bubonic plague, which severely reduced the population in regions such as the Middle East and Europe.

What was the Safavid Empire's major religious rivalry?

The conflict between Sunni and Shia Muslims, exacerbated by political actions of leaders like Shah Ismail.

How did rulers use monumental architecture to legitimize their power?

By constructing grand buildings like the Sun Temple of Cusco and the Palace of Versailles that showcased their authority and reinforced their rule.

What was the Zamindar system in the Mughal Empire?

A tax collection system where elite landowners collected taxes on behalf of the imperial government.

What reform was initiated by Martin Luther in Christianity?

The Protestant Reformation, which challenged church corruption and led to a split in Christianity in Europe.

How did Sikhism develop in South Asia?

As a syncretic blend of Hindu and Islamic doctrines, rejecting social hierarchies.