Hum test prep

Mongol Empire

The empire covered the most contiguous territory in history from 1206-1368.

Genghis Khan

Originally named Temujin, he united Mongol tribes and changed his name to mean 'Universal Ruler.'

Pax Mongolica

A period of peace and stability during Mongol rule that facilitated trade and protected travelers.

Silk Road

A network of trade routes revived by the Mongols, enhancing trade and economic connectivity.

Mansa Musa

King of the Mali Empire, known for his pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 and immense wealth.

Islamicization of Mali

Spread of Islam in Mali, primarily through trade with Berbers and adoption by the ruling elite.

Feudalism

A social system in medieval Europe where land was exchanged for loyalty and service.

Transubstantiation

The belief in Christianity that bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ during Communion.

Great Schism

The 1054 division between Eastern Orthodox and Western Catholic churches.

Byzantine Empire

Eastern continuation of the Roman Empire with its capital at Constantinople.

Manorialism

An economic system structured around a lord's manor and the relationship with serfs.

Islamic Golden Age

The period of cultural, economic, and scientific flourishing in the history of Islam.

Gunpowder

A significant military innovation introduced into warfare during the Mongol expansion.

Ibn Battuta

A Moroccan scholar whose writings provide essential insights into Islamic culture in Mali.

Apostolic succession

The uninterrupted transmission of spiritual authority from the Apostles to the present bishops.

Catholic Church

The Christian church led by the Pope, which played a significant role in medieval European society.

Hagia Sophia

A cathedral built by Emperor Justinian that later became a mosque, symbolizing Byzantine architecture.

Astrolabe

An ancient navigation tool used by sailors to determine latitude, improved by Muslim merchants.

Diocletian

Roman emperor who divided the empire into East and West in 286 CE to improve governance.

Western Roman Empire

Remained after the division of Rome; eventually fell in 476 CE.

Civil War in Rome

Conflicts among military commanders that contributed to the fall of the Western Roman Empire.

Black Death

A devastating plague that spread across Europe, heavily impacting populations during the Mongol period.

Trade routes

Paths taken by traders that connected different regions for economic exchange.

Cultural diffusion

The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another.

Swahili Coast

Coastal region in East Africa known for its trade ports and cultural exchange.

Tang Dynasty

Chinese imperial dynasty (618-907 CE) known for its cultural, political, and military achievements.

Song Dynasty

Chinese dynasty (960-1279 CE) that advanced commerce, technology, and culture.

Vulgate Bible

The first Latin translation of the Bible, sanctioned by the Catholic Church around 382 CE.

Arianism

A theological belief that denied the divinity of Jesus, leading to conflicts in the early church.

Serfs

Peasant laborers bound to the land, working for the lord and entangled in the manorial system.

Illuminated manuscripts

Text manuscripts embellished with colorful decorations, often created by monks.

Bantu language

A family of languages spoken by the Bantu peoples, notable in East Africa.

Medieval Era

Period from 499-1450 CE characterized by feudalism, the rise of kingdoms, and the spread of Christianity.

Portuguese Exploration

Initiated maritime explorations in the 15th century, leading to new trade routes and contacts.

Muscovite Princes

Leaders of Moscow granted power by the Mongols, ultimately leading to Russian unification.

Ivan IV (Ivan the Terrible)

First ruler of Russia to take the title Tsar, known for his autocratic rule.

Secret police

Implemented by Ivan IV to maintain control and suppress dissent through fear.

Humanism

A Renaissance philosophy emphasizing human potential, secularism, and individualism.

Renaissance

A cultural rebirth in Europe during the 14th to 16th centuries marked by a revival of art and literature.

Florence

Italian city-state renowned for its wealth and contributions to art during the Renaissance.

Ottoman Empire

A large empire founded in the late 13th century that dominated the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond.

Triangular lateen sail

An innovation that enabled sailing ships to navigate and utilize winds effectively.

Excommunication

The act of excluding a person from participation in the sacraments and services of the Church.

Mali Empire

Wealthy West African empire known for its significant role in trans-Saharan trade.

Mongolian innovations

Advanced warfare tactics and technologies adopted by the Mongol Empire from conquered peoples.

Mail delivery system

A postal service improved during the Mongol Empire facilitating communication across vast distances.

Songhai Empire

An empire that rose to power after Mali, exemplifying the Islamic dominance in West Africa.

Kievan Rus

A federation of Slavic tribes centered around Kiev, considered a precursor to modern Russia.

Christianity

The religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, becoming prominent in Europe.