Han_and_Rome

Globalism

A policy or idea that emphasizes the interdependence and interconnectedness of nations through trade, communication, and cultural exchange.

Silk Road

A historical network of trade routes that connected the East and West, beginning in Chang’an, China under the Han Dynasty.

Legalism

A strict philosophical belief system in ancient China that emphasized the necessity of laws and centralized authority to maintain order.

Confucianism

A philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius, focusing on morality, family, social harmony, and proper governance.

Mandate of Heaven

An ancient Chinese philosophical concept that justified the rule of the emperor as divinely ordained; if a ruler was overthrown, it was believed they had lost this mandate.

Dynasty

A line of rulers from the same family or lineage, often ruling for several generations.

Centrally ruled regime

A government system where power is concentrated in a central authority, diminishing the roles of regional leaders.

Bureaucracy

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

Pax Romana

A period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire lasting from 27 BCE to 180 CE.

Assassination in Rome

The politically motivated killing of Roman emperors, which was common due to the tumultuous political landscape.

Cultural assimilation

The process by which minority groups adopt the customs and attitudes of the prevailing culture, often seen in the expansion of empires.

Provincial governance

The administration of provinces, regions, or territories, particularly in the context of large empires like Rome and Han China.

Roman Republic

The period of ancient Roman civilization characterized by a system of government in which power rests with elected officials, lasting from 510 BCE to 27 BCE.

Roman Empire

The post-Republican period of ancient Rome characterized by centralized imperial rule and territorial expansion, starting from 27 BCE.

Ethnic minorities

Groups within a larger population that differ in cultural, linguistic, or racial identity.

Commanderies

Administrative subdivisions in the Qin and Han dynasties of China.

Checks and balances

A principle in governance that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful, often by providing oversight or authority to different branches.

Silk Road Trade Goods

The Silk Road facilitated the exchange of various goods such as silk, spices, textiles, and precious metals between the East and West.

Cultural Exchanges on the Silk Road

The Silk Road not only traded goods but also ideas, culture, religion, and technology, enriching civilizations.

Downfall of Dynasties

Dynasties in China often fell due to loss of the Mandate of Heaven, corruption, revolts, or external invasions.

Expansion of the Roman Empire

The Roman Empire expanded through conquest, resulting in the subjugation of various cultures and peoples across Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East.

Role of Emperors

Emperors in ancient Rome held supreme power and were often seen as divine figures, with their authority legitimized by the concept of the Mandate of Heaven.

Impact of Bureaucracy

Bureaucracy in ancient China allowed for efficient governance and administration over vast territories through appointed officials.

Religious Syncretism

The blending of different religious beliefs and practices, often seen in regions influenced by the Silk Road.

Spices in Roman Economy

Spices were highly valued in the Roman economy, often used for preservation, flavoring, and as status symbols.