AP World history Fall FInal Vocab

Confucianism

A philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing moral integrity, social harmony, and the importance of education and family relationships.

neo-Confucianism

An ideological revival and reinterpretation of Confucianism that emerged during the Song dynasty, incorporating elements of Buddhism and Daoism.

Song dynasty

A golden age of Chinese culture and technological advancement that lasted from 960 to 1279 AD. This period was marked by significant developments in neo-Confucianism

Jihad

An Islamic term referring to a struggle or striving, including internal spiritual struggle to live a righteous life.

jizya

Tax imposed on non-Muslims in Islamic empires

Sufi

A mystic withing Islam, characterized by ascetic practices and an emphasis on spiritual closeness to God.

emporia

A principal center of commerce, especially one in the ancient or medieval world.

Vijayanagar Empire

An influential Hindu empire based in South India, established in 1336 and lasting until 1646. It was known for its robust military, cultural richness, and significant patronage of art, and architecture, playing a crucial role in resisting Muslim expansion.

monsoon

Seasonal wind patterns in South and Southeast Asia that bring heavy summer rains and dry winters, crucial for agriculture and trade.

Feudal system

A political and social system where land is exchanged for military service and loyalty, common in medieval Europe and Japan.

Monasticism

Religious practice where individuals withdraw from society to live in monasteries focused on prayer, work, and study.

Asceticism

A lifestyle of self-discipline and denial of physical pleasures for spiritual reasons.

Khans of the Golden Horde

Mongol rulers who controlled parts of Russia and Eastern Europe after the breakup of the Mongol empire

Tamerlane

A Turkic-Mongol conqueror who built a large empire in Central Asia using military force.

Yurts

Portable, round tents used by nomadic peoples of Central Asia.

Mansa Musa

Wealthy ruler of the Mali Empire known for his pilgrimage to Mecca and promotion of Islam and Learning.

Swahili

A language and culture that developed along the East African coast through African, Arab, and Persian trade interactions

Trans-Sahara

Trade routes crossing the Sahara Desert that connected North Africa with sub-Saharan Africa.

Calpulli

A community based social and landholding unit in Aztec society

Inca Empire

A large empire in South America centered in the Andes, known for road systems and state control of labor.

Mexica

The people commonly known as the Aztecs, who built an empire in Central Mexico.

Marco Polo

A European traveler whose writings increased European knowledge of Asia.

Yongle

A Ming dynasty emperor who strengthened China, sponsored Zheng He’s voyages, and moved the capitall to Beijing.

Zheng He

A Chinese admiral who led large naval expeditions across the Indian ocean to expand Chinese influence.