AP Human Geo Chapter 5 & 6

Pidgin Language

A simplified language that develops between groups who don’t share a common language, used mainly for trade or basic communication

Creole Language

A stable, fully developed language that forms when a pidgin language becomes the native language of a group of people

Lingua Franca

A language used for communication between people who speak different native languages (e.g., English used globally)

Official Language

The language a government designates for use in laws, documents, and public business

Indo-European Language Family

The world’s largest language family, including languages like English, Spanish, Hindi, and Russian

Toponym

The name of a place; often reflects culture, history, or physical geography

Hinduism

A polytheistic religion from India focused on reincarnation, karma, and achieving moksha (liberation)

Buddhism

A religion founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) that teaches the Four Noble Truths and the path to enlightenment (nirvana)

Sikhism

A monotheistic religion founded in Punjab, India, blending elements of Hinduism and Islam; stresses equality and devotion to one God

Judaism

The first monotheistic religion, founded by Abraham; based on the Hebrew Bible and the belief in one God

Christianity

A monotheistic religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ; split into Eastern Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant branches

Islam

A monotheistic religion founded by Muhammad; followers (Muslims) follow the Qur’an. Main branches are Sunni and Shia

Monotheism

Belief in one God

Polytheism

Belief in many gods

Syncretism

The blending of different religions, cultures, or beliefs into a new system