Unit 1, Part 1: Asia

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the political, economic, and cultural developments within the Asian civilizations, particularly focusing on the Song Dynasty, the Islamic Empire, and South Asian contexts.

Song Dynasty

A major Chinese dynasty (960-1279) known for its advancements in technology, economy, culture, and governance.

Bureaucracy

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

Meritocracy

A political system where power is given to individuals based on ability and talent rather than wealth or social class.

Civil Service Exam

An examination system used in China to select candidates for the state bureaucracy.

Grand Canal

A major waterway in China, facilitating internal trade and commerce.

Champa Rice

A fast-maturing rice variety from Vietnam, enabling increased agricultural productivity in China.

Gunpowder

An explosive substance invented during the Song Dynasty, significant for military advancements.

Silk Roads

A network of trade routes connecting China with the Mediterranean, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.

Confucianism

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

Foot Binding

A Chinese cultural practice of tightly wrapping girls' feet to alter their shape, symbolizing beauty and status.

Shinto Religion

The traditional religion of Japan, focusing on ritual practices and belief in kami (spirits).

Heian Period

A period in Japanese history (794-1185) noted for its art, poetry, and court culture.

Daimyo

Feudal lords in Japan who controlled land and were often in conflict during the feudal period.

Korean Writing System

The indigenous alphabet (Hangul) developed in Korea, replacing the Chinese writing system.

Mongol Invasion

The incursion of Mongol forces during the 13th century that led to the decline of various empires, including the Song Dynasty.

Abbasid Caliphate

A major Islamic caliphate (750-1258) known for its cultural and scientific advances.

House of Wisdom

A major intellectual center during the Islamic Golden Age located in Baghdad.

Golden Age

A period of great cultural, economic, and scientific flourishing in a civilization.

Al-Andalus

The territory in the Iberian Peninsula that was under Muslim control during the Middle Ages.

Five Pillars of Islam

The five basic acts of worship that are considered the foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice.

Bhakti Movement

A devotional trend in Hinduism emphasizing personal devotion to a deity and social reforms.

South Asia Caste System

A hierarchical social structure in India, outlining the social stratification and class divisions.

Urdu Language

A language that developed from a mix of Persian, Arabic, and local South Asian languages.

Srivijaya Kingdom

A powerful maritime and commercial kingdom based on trade in Southeast Asia.

Khmer Empire

An empire based in modern-day Cambodia, known for its architectural achievements like Angkor Wat.

Angkor Thom

The capital city of the Khmer Empire, renowned for its monumental architecture and urban planning.

Silk Roads Trade Network

An extensive network of trade routes connecting East and West, facilitating cultural exchange.

Cultural Diffusion

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

Ottoman Empire

A significant Islamic empire that emerged from the remnants of the Islamic Caliphate, lasting from the late 13th century to the early 20th century.

Collegiate Societies

Groups of students involved in educational institutions that arose throughout the Islamic Empire to enhance learning and scholarship.

Literature Contributions during Islamic Empire

Notable literary works and poets, such as 'A’ishah al-Ba’uniyyah, that emerged during the Islamic Golden Age.

Economic Influence of Religion and Trade

The role of religious practices and trade routes in shaping the economic structures and connections between civilizations.