Age of Accelerating Connections & New Empires (1200 – 1450)

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the Age of Accelerating Connections and New Empires between 1200 and 1450, focusing on the significant political, cultural, and economic changes during this period.

Mongol Empire

A massive empire created through brutal conquest and tribute collection, focused more on profit than cultural imposition.

Renaissance

A period of cultural revival in Europe marked by increased creativity and humanism after the Dark Ages.

Black Death

The plague that spread into Europe via trade routes in the 14th century, causing significant population loss and social upheaval.

Abbasid Caliphate

A once-thriving Islamic empire that became politically fragmented over time leading to its decline.

Song Dynasty

A powerful and innovative Chinese dynasty known for advancements such as gunpowder and Confucianism, which was eventually destroyed by the Mongols.

Cultural Diffusion

The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another, notably accelerated by trade routes and empires.

Decentralization

A distribution of administrative powers or functions away from a central authority; exemplified in the administration of the Mali Empire under Mansa Musa.

Treasure Fleet

Ming Dynasty maritime expeditions led by Zheng He to exert Chinese power and control over trade routes, rather than for exploration.

Chinampas

Floating agricultural islands built by the Aztecs for farming, showcasing their agricultural ingenuity.

Quipu

An Incan system of record-keeping using knotted strings.

Silk Roads

Ancient trade routes that connected East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods and cultural practices.

Mansa Musa

The emperor of Mali known for his wealth and centralization of power over trade routes, contributing to the empire's prosperity.