taylor h midterm

Australopithecines

Early human species that lived 2-4 million years ago.

Homo sapiens sapiens

Modern humans that emerged around 200,000 years ago, living semi-nomadically.

Neolithic Revolution

Period around 15,000-10,000 years ago marked by the shift from nomadic life to food production and greater social complexity.

River Valley Civilizations

Four earliest civilizations: Egypt (Nile), Mesopotamia (Tigris and Euphrates), India (Indus), and China (Yellow).

Sumerians

Oldest civilization located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, known for cuneiform writing and ziggurats.

Hammurabi's Code

The first written code of laws established around 1700 BC by Babylonian King Hammurabi.

Gilgamesh

The first epic poem written by the Sumerians.

Egyptian Contributions

Notable for pyramids, a 365-day calendar, hieroglyphs, and colossal statues.

Nile River

The 'giver of life' to Egypt, enabling agriculture and travel.

Osiris

Egyptian god symbolizing resurrection and rebirth.

Cuneiform

One of the earliest forms of writing developed by the Sumerians.

Zoroastrianism

Monotheistic religion founded by the Persian prophet Zoroaster emphasizing truth vs. evil.

Cyrus the Great

Persian leader known for his benevolence and allowing cultural autonomy in his conquests.

Harappan Civilization

Oldest civilization in India, dating back 4,500 years, with cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.

Aryan Invasions

Around 1500 BC, introduced new language and culture to India.

Buddhism

Religion founded by Siddhartha Gautama teaching about enlightenment and the Four Noble Truths.

Ashoka

Greatest Mauryan emperor who promoted kindness and Buddhism.

Confucianism

Philosophy focusing on duty and family relationships, established by Confucius.

Mandate of Heaven

Chinese belief that rulers are given their power from divine approval.

Stoicism

Philosophical school emphasizing virtue and emotional detachment.

Peloponnesian Wars

Conflicts between Athens and Sparta, leading to Sparta's eventual victory.

Christianity

Religion founded on the teachings of Jesus Christ, significant impact on Western civilization.

Islam

Religion founded by Muhammad, with fundamental beliefs encapsulated in the Five Pillars.

Shi’ite

Muslims who believe in a caliphate based on Muhammad's bloodline.

Umayyads

First Islamic dynasty that expanded the Islamic state to large territories.

Abbasids

Islamic dynasty known for cultural and scientific achievements during the Golden Age.

Jihad

Struggle or fight against enemies of Islam, often interpreted as a religious duty.

Mansa Musa

Mali king known for his pilgrimage to Mecca and promotion of trade.

Silk Road

Ancient trade route connecting the East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas.

Sikhism

Religious movement in India that combines elements of Islam and Hinduism, promoting equality and justice.