Period 0 Vocabulary

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts from Period 0 (10,000 BCE-1250 CE), based on Chapter 1 of the textbook.

Egalitarian

A society or group characterized by the belief in equality among its members; everyone is considered equal and deserves equal rights and opportunities.

Agricultural Revolution

Refers to the transformation of human societies from nomadic hunter-gatherers to settled agricultural communities through the domestication of plants and animals; allowed for the development of villages, surpluses, and eventually, civilizations.

Pastoral Societies

Societies based on the herding of domesticated animals; nomadic or semi-nomadic groups that move with their herds and rely on animal products for sustenance.

Agricultural Village Societies

Societies primarily based on agriculture but organized around village life rather than large urban centers; characterized by small-scale farming and close-knit communities.

Early Civilizations’ effect on the environment

Early civilizations significantly altered their environments; deforestation, irrigation projects leading to salinization, and soil erosion were some negative consequences.

Social hierarchy of early civilizations

Early civilizations often developed a stratified social structure; elites held power and wealth, while commoners and slaves occupied lower positions.

Upanishads

A collection of ancient Sanskrit texts that contain some of the central philosophical concepts and ideas of Hinduism; explore the nature of reality and the self.

Bhakti movement

Refers to devotional movements in Hinduism that emphasize love and devotion to a particular deity; seeks to achieve a personal relationship with the divine.

Confucianism’s effect on China

Had a profound and lasting impact on China; emphasized social harmony, filial piety, and the importance of education and moral behavior.

Daoism

A philosophical and religious tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao (the Way); values simplicity, spontaneity, and naturalness.

Abrahamic faiths

Religions that trace their origins to Abraham; Judaism, Christianity, and Islam share a common heritage and recognize Abraham as a key figure.

Emperor Constantine & Christianity

Roman Emperor Constantine played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity; legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire.

Umma

The community of Muslims; based on shared religious beliefs and practices.

Sufis

Mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes direct personal experience of the divine; known for their devotional practices, poetry, and music.

Cross-cultural interactions

Interactions between different cultures that result in the exchange of ideas, technologies, and practices; played a significant role in shaping the course of history.