OS Ch 1: The Americas, Europe, Africa Before 1492

Agricultural Revolution

The period around 10,000 years ago when the first American groups began domesticating plants and animals, leading to societal development.

Olmec Civilization

The earliest Mesoamerican civilization, dated back to 1600-1200 BCE, known for leaving behind pyramids, jade jewelry, and massive basalt stone heads.

Mayan Civilization

Indigenous to the Yucatan Peninsula, the Mayan empire thrived from 200-250 CE until 900-950 CE, facing a mysterious decline possibly due to overpopulation and ecological issues.

Aztec Civilization

Formed through a Triple Alliance in 1428 CE, the Aztec empire controlled over eleven million people by 1500 CE, known for their military might and human sacrifices.

Incan Civilization

Flourishing from ca. 1400 CE until its demise in 1533 CE, this empire was the largest empire in the Americas, known for its advanced governance, road system, and use of quipa.

Native American Societies

Developed diverse and complex societies across North America, adapting to various environments, leading to the rise of over 500 tribes.

Land Ownership Views

Native Americans believed in communal land ownership, contrasting with Europeans who believed in private land ownership influenced by religious beliefs.

Renaissance

A period emphasizing reason, free inquiry, and scientific exploration, leading to the rise of monarchies and colonial expansion.

Chattel Slavery

A form of slavery where individuals are owned indefinitely, passing down through generations, prevalent in the New World.

Racial Slavery Origins

Emerged post-discovery of the New World, with African slaves imported due to economic factors like cheap transport and labor needs, leading to racial slavery.

Sepulveda and Las Casas Debate

A 1550 debate where Sepulveda argued for Native American enslavement, while Las Casas advocated for African slave labor to protect the Native Americans.

Maize

A staple crop in Native American societies, cultivated for thousands of years. It was versatile, nutritious, and had cultural significance.

Iroquois Confederation

Native American alliance of 6 tribes in Northeastern North America, formed for unity, defense, and diplomacy.