AP World Midterm Topics

Mongols

A nomadic group that created a vast empire from 1206 to 1368 under the leadership of Genghis Khan.

Pax Mongolica

A period of stability and peace allowing for trade and cultural exchange across the Mongol Empire.

Black Death

A devastating pandemic caused by the bubonic plague that swept through Europe from 1346 to 1353, leading to a massive population decline.

Trans-Saharan trade

Trade networks connecting West Africa to Europe and the Middle East, primarily involving gold, salt, and ivory.

Ibn Battuta

A Moroccan explorer whose travelogue, 'Rihla,' documented his extensive travels across the Islamic world.

Mughals

An empire established in India by Babur from 1526 to 1756, known for its cultural achievements and architectural innovations.

Protestant Reformation

A religious movement from 1517 to 1648 that led to the division of Western Christianity and the emergence of various Protestant denominations.

Industrial Revolution

A period of significant technological advancement and economic transformation from the 18th to 19th centuries, characterized by the rise of new social classes and urban centers.

Labor shortages

A consequence of the Black Death that increased social mobility and led to a shift in feudal relationships.

Cultural syncretism

The blending of different cultural practices, notably seen in the Mughal Empire.

Merit-based leadership

A military tactic of the Mongols which emphasized skills and abilities over noble birth.

Key figures in Protestant Reformation

Important leaders such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Henry VIII who challenged the Catholic Church.

Economic growth in West Africa

The result of trade in gold, salt, and ivory during the dominance of empires like Ghana, Mali, and Songhai.

Architectural innovations of the Mughals

Notable for structures like the Taj Mahal, reflecting the empire's artistic achievements.

External pressures on empires

Factors like Portuguese colonization that contributed to the decline of West African trade empires.

Improved standards of living

One of the significant outcomes of the Industrial Revolution along with new social and environmental challenges.

Social and religious responses to the Black Death

Increased pessimism, mysticism, and persecution of minority groups emerged during and after the pandemic.

Key innovations of the Industrial Revolution

Included advancements such as the steam engine and textile machinery, transforming economies and societies.

Division into khanates

A contributing factor to the decline of the Mongol Empire, resulting from internal conflicts and external pressures.

Cultural exchange in the Islamic world

Facilitated by travelers like Ibn Battuta, leading to the sharing of ideas and practices across regions.

Impact of the Protestant Reformation on art and literature

Catalyzed changes in artistic expression and literary works reflecting new religious ideas and sentiments.