Unit 1

Song Dynasty

The wealthiest and most innovative empire in the world between 1200 and 1450, known for its political stability and cultural achievements.

Mongol Empire

The largest land empire in human history created by nomadic Central Asian tribes that conquered extensive territories, allowing trade and cultural exchange.

Tributary System

A system where other states had to pay money or provide goods to honor the Chinese emperor, reinforcing China's political and economic power.

Neo-Confucianism

A syncretic philosophy combining Confucianism with Daoism and Buddhism that emphasizes ethics and is pivotal in East Asian state-building.

Meritocracy

A system in which officials obtain their positions through their performance on civil service exams, primarily based on Confucian texts.

Grand Canal

A vast transportation system in China connecting different regions, facilitating trade and economic growth during the Song Dynasty.

Champa Rice

A fast-ripening and drought-resistant strain of rice introduced to China, contributing to agricultural productivity and population growth.

Bureaucracy

An administrative system governing a large state, expanded significantly during the Song Dynasty to maintain control and implement policies.

Aztec Empire

A Mesoamerican empire that formed a tributary system, using military power and maintaining control through local rulers.

Mansa Musa

The emperor of Mali, known for his pilgrimage to Mecca and for showcasing the wealth of his kingdom, impacting trade and cultural exchange.

Bhakti Movement

A movement in South Asia emphasizing personal devotion to a deity and accessible religious practices, often appealing to marginalized groups.

Sufism

A mystical Islamic belief system focusing on the personal experience of God, played a pivotal role in spreading Islam in South and Southeast Asia.

Manorial System

An economic system in medieval Europe where a lord's estate (manor) was self-sufficient, providing protection and sustenance for peasants.

Feudalism

A decentralized political system in medieval Europe characterized by reciprocal obligations between lords and vassals.

Civil Service Exam

An examination system used in China to select candidates for bureaucracy based on their knowledge of Confucian texts.

Foot Binding

A Chinese practice that constrained women's mobility and associated social status, prevalent during dynastic rule.

Ghana Empire

An ancient West African kingdom known for trade in gold and agriculture, existing before the rise of Mali.

Cultural Syncretism

The blending of different cultural traditions, as seen in art, religion, and social practices, particularly in regions like Africa and India.

Silk Roads

A network of trade routes connecting the East and West, facilitating cultural, technological, and economic exchange.

Delhi Sultanate

An Islamic empire in northern India that controlled substantial territories and promoted trade and cultural interactions between Hinduism and Islam.

Mughal Empire

A prominent empire in South Asia that significantly influenced culture, governance, and trade from the 16th century onwards.

Chivalry

A code of conduct associated with the feudal system in medieval Europe, emphasizing bravery, honor, and respect for women.

Gunpowder

An explosive mixture used in early firearms and artillery, contributing to military innovations during the period.

Urbanization

The growth of cities and towns, a significant trend during the rise of trade and economy in both Europe and Asia.