APWH_Unit 0_Post-Classical Civs

Post-Classical Era Civilizations of Note in APWH

Western Roman Empire

Starting around 476 CE/AD and characterized by its decline in power, territory loss, and eventual fragmentation into various kingdoms. Its collapse marked the transition into the Middle Ages in Europe.

Eastern Roman Empire

Also known as the Byzantine Empire, it preserved Roman law and culture while expanding trade and territory until its eventual fall in 1453.

Abbasid Caliphate

A major Islamic caliphate that succeeded the Umayyad Caliphate, known for its cultural, scientific, and intellectual achievements during the Golden Age of Islam, lasting from 750 to 1258 CE.

Sui Dynasty

A short-lived dynasty in China that reunified the country after several centuries of fragmentation. It is known for extensive infrastructure projects, including the Grand Canal, and for laying the foundation for the following dynasty.

Umayyad Caliphate

The first major Islamic caliphate after the death of Muhammad, which expanded rapidly across the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Spain. Known for establishing Arabic as the administrative language and for its architectural achievements, including the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.

Mississippian Cultures

Collection of Native American societies that flourished in what is now the Midwestern, Eastern, and Southeastern United States. Known for their mound-building, complex societies, and extensive trade networks, flourishing from approximately 800 CE to 1600 CE.

Mayan Civilization

An ancient Mesoamerican civilization known for its sophisticated writing system, art, architecture, and mathematical and astronomical advancements. Thrived in present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras from around 2000 BCE to the 16th century CE.

Toltec Culture

A Mesoamerican civilization that flourished in central Mexico, known for its artistic and architectural achievements, particularly in stone carvings and the construction of pyramids, influencing later cultures like the Aztecs.

Ghana

West African kingdom that became wealthy through trade, particularly in gold, and was known for its strong centralized government. It thrived from around the 6th to the 13th century CE, playing a key role in the trans-Saharan trade.

Great Zimbabwe

A medieval city in southern Africa known for its impressive stone ruins and as a major trading center, thriving from the 11th to the 15th century CE. Was a major contributor to regional trade networks.

Tang Dynasty

A Chinese dynasty that ruled from 618 to 907 CE, known for its cultural, political, and economic achievements, as well as the expansion of the Silk Road and the promotion of Buddhism.

Song Dynasty

A major Chinese dynasty known for its advancements in technology, culture, and economics from the 10th to the 13th century CE, including innovations like the compass and print technology.

Japan (from the 6th to 16th Centuries)

East Asian country that experienced significant cultural, political, and economic changes, including the influence of Buddhism and the rise of feudalism.