Unit 4: Maritime Empires and European Expansion (1450-1750)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from Unit 4 of AP World History on Maritime Empires and European expansion.

Maritime Empires

Empires that expanded primarily through naval power and overseas exploration during the period from 1450 to 1750.

Columbian Exchange

The transfer of diseases, food, and animals between the Old and New Worlds following Columbus's voyages.

Joint-Stock Companies

Investment structures that allowed multiple investors to share the risks and profits of explorations, exemplified by the Dutch East India Company.

Mercantilism

An economic theory favoring government regulation of a nation's economy for augmenting state power, prevalent during the era of European empires.

Prince Henry the Navigator

A Portuguese royal who played a key role in the early days of the Portuguese Empire and maritime exploration.

Impact of European diseases

The devastating effects on indigenous populations in the Americas due to exposure to diseases brought by Europeans.

Chattel slavery

A form of slavery where individuals are treated as personal property to be bought and sold.

Fronde

A series of civil wars in France during the 1640s, representing peasant rebellion against centralized royal power.

Caravel

A small, highly maneuverable ship developed by the Portuguese for long-distance exploration.

Resistance to Imperialism

Actions taken by indigenous and local populations against European colonial expansion, including rebellions and isolationist policies.