Unit 1: The Global Tapestry 1200-1450

Song Dynasty

The ruling dynasty in China from 960 to 1279, known for innovations and a strong state structure.

Confucianism

A philosophical system emphasizing hierarchical social relationships and moral integrity, guiding the bureaucratic structure of the Song Dynasty.

Meritocracy

A political system in which individuals are selected based on ability and talent rather than wealth or social status.

Mandate of Heaven

A Chinese political and religious doctrine used to justify the rule of the Emperor of China, based on moral legitimacy.

Civil Service Exam

A competitive examination designed to select the most capable candidates for government positions, revived during the Song Dynasty.

Filial Piety

A virtue of respect for one's parents and ancestors in Confucian thought.

Foot Binding

A painful custom in imperial China that involved tightly binding a woman's feet to alter their shape, becoming a status symbol.

Flying Cash

A form of paper money that was used as a currency in China due to a shortage of metal for coins.

Grand Canal

A major waterway in China that facilitated trade and transportation, connecting the north and south.

Gunpowder

An explosive material created from saltpeter and charcoal, first discovered by alchemists, significant for military applications.

Mahayana Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism that developed in China, emphasizing the worship of multiple deities and the idea of salvation.

Abbasid Caliphate

Islamic caliphate that became a dominant power after the fall of the Umayyads, known for its cultural and intellectual flourishing.

House of Wisdom

An academic center in Baghdad during the Islamic Golden Age where scholars gathered to study and translate texts from various cultures.

Jizya

A tax levied on non-Muslims under Islamic rule, which often encouraged conversions to Islam.

Dhows

Arabian sailing vessels with lateen sails used in trade across the Indian Ocean during the medieval period.

Mansa Musa

The king of Mali known for his immense wealth, pilgrimage to Mecca, and promotion of Islamic education and architecture.

Chinampas

Floating gardens used by the Aztecs to increase agricultural productivity in lake areas.

Mita System

Mandatory public service system used by the Inca Empire for labor on public works.

Ethiopian Christianity

A distinct version of Christianity that developed in Ethiopia, integrating local traditions and beliefs.

Renaissance

A period of cultural revival beginning in the 14th century characterized by a renewed interest in classical art, philosophy, and the sciences in Europe.

Crusades

Religious wars initiated by European Christians in the medieval period aimed at reclaiming Jerusalem from Muslim rule.

Vijayanagara Empire

A powerful Hindu kingdom in South India established in the 14th century that promoted trade and cultural development.

Sufi Missionaries

Islamic mystics who traveled to spread Islam, often adapting their teachings to local cultures.

Seljuk Empire

A medieval Turko-Persian empire that controlled a large part of the Middle East, including the Holy Land.

Hausa Kingdom

A collection of city-states in northern Nigeria known for their trade networks and decentralized governance.

Great Zimbabwe

A medieval kingdom in southeastern Africa known for its impressive stone structures and wealth from trade.

Majapahit Empire

A Hindu-Buddhist maritime empire that thrived in Southeast Asia, controlling trade routes in the 14th century.

Khmer Empire

A powerful Southeast Asian empire known for its architectural achievements, including Angkor Wat.

Aztec Empire

A Mesoamerican civilization known for its polytheistic religion, high level of agriculture, and architectural feats.

Inca Empire

The largest empire in pre-Columbian America known for its rich political structure, extensive road system, and agricultural innovations.