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Key term/event 

Definition (Who, What, When, Where

Significance (Why this term matters) 

1. Song Dynasty 

The Song Dynasty lasted from 960-1279. The Song Dynasty covered much of Southeast Asia. Neo-Confucian was prevalent such as in supporting the government and shaping social classes.

The Song Dynasty matters because they had prosperity and arts flourished.

2. Grand Canal 

The Grand Canal was a waterway transportation system that spanned over 3,000 miles, it was not costly and it was efficient.

The Grand Canal matters because it would help improve transportation efficiency and cost.

3. Champa rice 

Champa Rice, a strain of rice that is resistant to droughts and ripens fast. It is present in current day Vietnam and it was developed through experimentation. This strain of rice caused substantial expansion of agricultural production in China.

Champa rice matters because it caused substantial expansion of agricultural production in China.

4. Tributary system 

The Tributary system was a system in which the Chinese emperor received goods and money from other states as mandatory tribute.

The Tributary system matters because it resulted in a surplus of wealth in China.

5. Kowtow 

A Kowtow is a ritual in which anyone who greets the Chinese emperor must bow their head down until it reaches the floor.

Kowtows matter because they are a form of respect for the Chinese emperor.

6. Scholar Gentry 

The Scholar Gentry is a new social class created by bureaucratic expansion. Which outnumbered the aristocracy (landowners who inherited their wealth). They were educated in Confucian philosophy and they were the most influential social class in China.

The Scholar Gentry matters because it is a new social class that outnumber the aristocracy and they were educated in confucian philosophy and became the most influential social class in China.

7. Foot Binding 

Foot binding in China was a practice that women in China especially among aristocratic families during the Song Dynasty must do. Social status might be determined by this and it restricted women’s agility greatly to where it prevented them from participating in the public sphere.

Foot binding matters because it prevents Women from participating in the public sphere.

8. Zen Buddhism 

Zen Buddhism is a faith that is composed of Buddhist doctrines combined with elements of Daoist traditions. Zen Buddhism emphasized direct experience and meditation compared to formal education.

Zen Buddhism matters because what it emphasized was direct experience and meditation compared to formal education.

9. Filial piety 

Filial Piety is a duty of family members to set aside their desires for the male head of the family and for the ruler.

Filial Piety matters because it is used to honor and respect.

10. Neo-Confucianism 

Neo-Confucianism developed between 770-840. It combined abstract ideas of Daoism and Buddhism with rational thought. Neo-Confucianism had more emphasis on ethics than the wonders of God and Nature. It became Popular in countries that surround China.

Neo-Confucianism matters because it ended up changing emphasis on ethics from wonders of God and Nature in terms of religion in China.

11. Sinification 

Sinification is the assimilation of Chinese traditions and practices.

Sinification is important because it showcases how a country that is neighboring or close can absorb each other's traditions and practices. 

 

Objective 

Key Developments 

Explain the systems of government employed by Chinese dynasties and how they developed over time.  

  1. Explain how an ​imperial bureaucracy/meritocracy ​works. 

 An imperial bureaucracy works by appointing officials to carry out the empire’s policies. A meritocracy works by appointing officials by having a civil service exam in which if a young man scores well on it then the young man could obtain a highly desirable job in the bureaucracy.

 

  1. How did the Song Dynasty’s imperial bureaucracy represent a ​political continuity?  

 The Song Dynasty’s imperial bureaucracy represents a political continuity by continuing the use of an imperial bureaucracy since the Qin Dynasty.

 

 

  1. How did the imperial bureaucracy change over time?   

 The imperial bureaucracy changed over time by expanding.

 

  1. How did Song China also utilize ​Confucianism ​to maintain control (see pg. 8)? 

 Song China utilized Confucianism to maintain control by taking advantage of China’s privileged classes having increased access to literature and they consumed literature at a significant rate.

 

  1. How did China’s ​imperial bureaucracy/meritocracy ​lead to the decline of the Song?  

 China’s imperial bureaucracy/meritocracy led to the decline of the Song because the bureaucracy became so large it contributed to the empire’s weakness.

 

  

Explain the effects of innovation on the Chinese economy over time.  

  1. What lasting economic impact did the ​Tang Dynasty ​have on the Song Dynasty?  

 The Song Dynasty was able to start off strong due to the invention of gunpowder and usage of Champa rice that was introduced in previous dynasties.

 

 

  1. Trade networks:  

    • How did the ​Grand Canal ​allow Song China to flourish economically?  

 The Grand Canal allowed for more efficient and less costly trade.

 

  • What ​major trade network​ allowed China to trade items and technology (like guns) with Eurasia? 

 The Silk Road allowed China to trade items and technology with Eurasia.

 

  • What two major developments allowed Song China to ​trade by sea​?  

 Advancements in naval technology which allowed them to control the South China sea and redesigned ships to carry more cargo.

 

  1. Give examples of and explain how ​innovations in agriculture​ led to population growth and economic success.  

 Innovations in agriculture such as usage of Champa rice which resulted in an expansion of agricultural goods which led to more population growth and economic success by expanding the choices for agricultural goods and expanding the growth of agricultural goods.

 

  1. China’s earlier discovery of coal​ ​ led to the manufacturing of steel.​ 

● How did ​steel​ impact Song China?  

Steel impacted Song China by allowing for making and reinforcing structures such as bridges, gates and ship anchors. It was also used to strengthen agricultural equipment and for religious items.



  • List ​three ​other items of trade from Song China.   

  • Porcelain

  • Gunpowder

  • Champa rice



  1. Song China became increasingly ​commercialized during proto-industrialization.​

  ● Explain what ​commercialization means for an economy.​   

  Commercialization for an economy to center around certain industries to cause more economic success or economic stability.

 

  • Explain how Song China continued to rely on ​free peasant and artisan labor.  

 Song China continued to rely on free peasant and artisan labor by having them produce more than they actually can sell.

 

 

  1. Explain how the ​Tributary System ​supported both economic and political power for Song China. 

The Tributary System supported both economic and political power for Song China by causing a surplus in wealth for China.


Explain the effects of Chinese cultural traditions on East Asia over time.  

  1. Prior to the Song Dynasty, most of Chinese society lived in rural areas. How does Song China ​differ​ from earlier history, and what makes this change happen?  

 Song China differs from earlier history by and it makes this change happen due to urban areas growing in prominence which led to China becoming the most urbanized land in the world.

  

  1. From most powerful to least powerful, list the ​six classes​ of social hierarchy.  

 Aristocracy, Scholar Gentry, farmers, artisans, merchants, peasants

  

  1. What evidence is there that Chinese society was patriarchal (​ male dominated).  

 Many men in Chinese society were given more opportunity to participate in the social sphere because they were not limited in mobility as many aristocratic women had their feet binded.

  

  1. Intellectual pursuits, such as literature, thrived in the Song Dynasty. What ​inventions from earlier Chinese history ​allowed this to happen?  

  • Woodblock Printing

  • Porcelain

  • Compass

 

 

  1. Buddhism​ continued to shape societies in Asia, especially in Song China.  

● How did it ​migrate ​to China? 

Buddhism migrated to China by the Silk Road from India.

 

 

  • What do the three main types (​Theravada, Mahayana, and Tibetan​) of Buddhism have in common? 

  They all include a belief in the Four Noble Truths and they all embrace the Eight-Fold path.

 

  • Explain how ​Zen Buddhism is a syncretic​ religion.  

  Zen Buddhism is a syncretic religion because the religion is Buddhist doctrines combined with elements of Daoist traditions.

 

  • Buddhism posed a problem for the Tang Dynasty, who grew jealous. How did the Song Dynasty treat Buddhism (make sure to include ​Neo-Confucianism ​in your answer).  

 The Song Dynasty was able to represent ethics rather than wonders of God and nature in religion by combining rational thought with more abstract ideas of Daoism and Buddhism.

  

 

 


 

For each of the following countries, analyze the process and impact of ​sinification. 



JAPAN 

○ Similarities to China:  

 Promoted more than one religion

Woodblock printing

Chinese traditions in politics, art, and literature

 

○ Differences:  

Feudal Society in Japan

No centralized government in Japan

 

 

 

KOREA 

○ Similarities to China: 

 Centralized government

Adopted both Confucian and Buddhist beliefs

Chinese Writing System 


○ Differences: 

Landed aristocracy more powerful in Korea

No meritocracy in Korea

 

 


 

 

 

VIETNAM 

○ Similarities to China:  

 Chinese writing system

Chinese Architectural styles

 

○ Differences: 
Vietnamese Women had more independence

Vietnamese preferred nuclear families

No political centralization in Vietnam



Key Concept 1.2 - Developments in Dar al-Islam

Bentley Textbook 

Chapter 14

AMSCO Reading

  • Explain how systems of belief and their practices affected society in the period from c. 1200 to c. 1450



pages 15-22

  • Explain the causes and effects of the rise of Islamic states over time

pages 297 - 298

  • read from The Abbasid Dynasty and stop at  Economy and Society of the Early Islamic World

  • Explain the effects of intellectual innovation in Dar al-Islam

pages 298 - 309

  • read from Economy and Society of the Early Islamic World through the end of the section


UNIT 1.2| Developments in Dar al-Islam  

Key term/event 

Definition (Who, What, When, Where

Significance (Why this term matters) 

1. House of 

Wisdom 

Renowned center of learning at Baghdad.

 

This Islamic community helped transfer knowledge throughout Afro-Eurasia.

2. Hijab 

A term that represents a practice of modesty or a type of head covering.

Common clothing of a Muslim woman and what is expected of a Muslim woman to practice or wear.

3. Swahili 

?? No information on this key term was found present in the textbook ??

  ?? No information on this key term was found present in the textbook ??

4. Battle of Tours 

A battle in which the Islamic military and Frankish forces fought and the Islamic armies were in defeat, which was rare for them during this time.

The end of rapid expansion for the Islamic armies.

5. “People of the book” (Dhimmi) 

The Muslims, Christians, and Jews living in Al-Andalus

To further clarify what the Muslims considered as people who should not be enslaved.

 

Objective 

Key Developments 

Explain how systems of belief and their practices affected society in the period from 

c. 1200 to c. 1450. 

A. Throughout the chapter are references to the teachings of Islam and Muhammad. Go through and summarize the impact of Islamic teachings on:  

 

● Tolerance: Tolerance of religion, allowing people of different religions to coexist peacefully. 


  • Education: Some scholars were able to develop new bodies of knowledge such as trigonometry.

  

  • Economics: Merchants were not viewed as low class people in Islamic territories.

  

  • Slavery: People who were not “people of the book" could be enslaved but people who were “people of the book” could not be enslaved.

  

  • Women: Women’s overall status was raised but Islamic Women enjoyed a higher status than Christian or Jewish women.

 

 


Explain the causes and effects of the rise of Islamic states over time.  

  1. The Abbasid Empire began to crumble in the 1100s and 1200s due to attacks from outsiders. Summarize the key characteristics/significance of each group below: 

    • Mamluks: They seized control over the government and established the Mamluk Sultanate.

 

 

  • Seljuk Turks: They were Muslims, and they extended their power almost as far east as Western China. The Seljuk leaders called themselves Sultan, caused the highest ranking Abbasid from Caliph to Chief Sunni religious authority.

 

 

  • Crusaders: The Abbasids allowed them to travel in and out freely. 

 

  • Mongols: They were the fourth group to attack the Abbasid Empire and they were famous for conquering.

 

 

  1. Explain what/how economic challenges also led to the decline of the Abbasid Empire. 

 Economic challenges also led to the decline of the Abbasid Empire because Baghdad lost its traditional place as the center of trade, it lost wealth and population.

 

  1. As new Islamic political entities emerged, they demonstrated several cultural continuities. Summarize them.​  

  They basically helped in the widely spreading of different bodies of knowledge.

 

 

  1. Summarize how the activities of Sufis, merchants, and the Islamic military led to the expansion of the Islamic Empire.  

 

  • Sufis:  They were aiding in the spread of Islam and converting people to Islam.

 

 

  • Merchants:  Merchants could get rich from trade and they spent some money for charity (For an Islamic pillar) and some of them were sent out as missionaries.

 

 

  • Military:  They conquered Spain and ruled it for 7 centuries.



E.  How were ​slaves ​and ​women ​treated under Islam?  

 Some enslaved women had served as mistresses in Islamic families where the man had already married 4 wives. Women could study and read but not in the company of men who are not related to them.

 

  1. What was the impact of Islam in:  

    • Africa: Sufis helped spread Islam to Africa.

 

 

 

  • Spain: Muslims ruled Spain for the next 7 centuries.

 

 

 

  1. What marked the limit of Islamic expansion into Western Europe?  

 

The defeat for the Islamic armies at the Battle of Tours. 







Key Concept 1.3 - Developments in South and Southeast Asia

Bentley Textbook

Chapter 15

AMSCO Reading

  • Explain how and why the various belief systems and practices of South and Southeast Asia affected society over time

pages 324 - 332

  • read from Religious Developments in South Asia through the end of the section



pages 23-32

  • Explain how and why various states of South and Southeast Asia developed and maintained power over time

pages 314-324

  • read from Islamic and Hindu Kingdoms and stop at Religious Developments in South Asia

Rather than focus on all of these various Hindu and Buddhist states, you should choose two or three of these to become familiar with for your writing



UNIT 1.3| Developments in South and Southeast Asia 

Key term/event 

Definition (Who, What, When, Where

Significance (Why this term matters) 

1. Delhi sultanate 

Islamic forces bringing Islam into India created the Delhi Sultanate which reigned for 400 years.

A spread of Islam into India

3. Proselytize 

Actively seek converts

Some religions advocate for proselytizing which is to lead people to the “right religion”

4. Caste system 

Indian hierarchy based on occupation

The social classes of India were represented by the Caste system.

6. Bhakti 

Movement 

A movement that emphasized building a strong bond with a deity over formal learning.

It’s related to Sufism which is interesting considering the fact that it is not a movement that is related to Islam.

7. Angkor Wat 

A Buddhist and Hindu temple located in the Angkor kingdom or the Khmer Kingdom.

It reflects the interactions between Hinduism and Buddhism in Southeast Asia.

 






Objective 

Key Developments 

Explain how the various belief systems and practices of South and 

Southeast Asia affected society over time.  

SOUTH ASIA 

A. Most South Asians practiced ​which religions​ before the arrival of Islam?

Buddhism, Daoism, and Hinduism


Summarize the ​main differences​ between Hinduism and Islam. 

  In Hinduism they believe there are multiple deities while Islam believes that there is only one God. While Hinduism has a caste system, Islam does not have a caste system but the status of people can be determined by piety.

 

  1. The arrival of Islam was at first forceful, as Muslim rulers tried to force Hindu and Buddhist subjects to convert. This was unsuccessful, which led to voluntary conversion - ​who voluntarily converted and why​? 

Most converts were Buddhist, and low-caste Hindus (Hindus were looking forward to rise their social status.

   

  1. Describe how Islam impacted the ​social structure​ of South Asia.  

Islam did little to alter the basic social structure of South Asia.

   

  1. Describe how Islam interacted with and impacted South Asian ​culture​.  

  Islam impacted South Asian culture by women having their independence more limited as people became muslims.

 

E. How do the ​Bhaktis and Sufis​ compare?  

  They both emphasize more focus on establishing a strong connection with their God(s)/Deity(ies).

 

SOUTHEAST ASIA 

A. How did Islam spread to Southeast Asia? Why did many in Southeast Asia convert?  

 Islam spread to Southeast 


Explain how and why various states of South and 

Southeast Asia developed and maintained power over time.  

SOUTH ASIA 

  1. How is South Asia characterized politically ​ after the collapse of the Golden Age (Gupta Dynasty)? 

 South Asia is characterized politically disunited, but religiously many are connected through Hinduism.

 

  1. Southern India was more stable than Northern India - summarize the two kingdoms that evidence this. 

 

  • Chola Dynasty (850-1267):  Lasted for over 400 years and extended its rule to Ceylon.

 

  

  • Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1646):  Lasted for over 300 years and began with the arrival of two brothers, Harihara and Bukka.

 

  

  1. Northern India had more upheaval than Southern India - summarize the two states that evidence this. 

● Rajput Kingdoms: Kingdoms formed in northern India and Pakistan. They were Hindu kingdoms led by leaders of many clans who were often at war with one another.

   

 

  • Delhi Sultanate (13-16th centuries):  Reigned from the 13th-16th centuries, Islam had a strong presence in the region.

  

 

SOUTHEAST ASIA 

A. What countries of today correspond with the region of Southeast Asia?  

 China, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar

 

 B. Summarize the importance of the sea-based kingdoms​ in Southeast Asia:​

● Srivijaya Empire (670-1025): A kingdom which built up their navy and charged fees for ships traveling between India and China which led them to prosperity.

  

 

  • Majapahit Kingdom (1293-1520):  They sustained their power by controlling sea routes. And had 98 tributaries at its height.

 

 

  1. Summarize the importance of the land-based kingdoms​ of Southeast Asia:​ 

 ● Sinhala Dynasties: Became a center of Buddhist study and was located in Sri Lanka 

  

 

  • Khmer Empire/Angkor Kingdom (802-1431):  Empire situated near the Mekong River, and the Kingdom’s complex irrigation system led to prosperity.






Key Concept 1.4 - State Building in the Americas 

Bentley Textbook

Chapter 20

AMSCO Reading

  • Explain how and why states in the Americas developed and changed over time

pages 428 -439

  • read from States and Empires in Mesoamerica and North America and stop at The Societies of Oceania   


pages 33-42










1.4| Developments in the Americas 

Key term/event 

Definition (Who, What, When, Where

Significance (Why this term matters) 

1. Cahokia 

Largest of Earth mounds built by Missipians

It is the most significant Earth mound built by the Missippians 

2. Matrilineal society 

Social standing was determined by the women’s side of the family.

Its social standing was determined by this term.

3. City-State 

They were ruled by a king and consisted of a city and its surrounding territory

This term matters because it explains how the government was set up and it also relates to the Greek City-States.

4. Tenochtitlan 

Capital of the Aztecs

The location was planned for defense against enemies.

5. Great Pyramid 

Pyramid built by the Aztecs that rose to 150 feet in the air and is built of stone.

It was used as a temple

6. Chinampas 

Floating gardens built by the Aztecs to increase the amount of space for food production.

It was used to aid in agricultural production.

7. Theocracy 

A Government ruled by religious leaders.

Government was greatly influenced by religion

8. Pochteca 

A special merchant class that traded in luxury goods.

It’s separated from the “ordinary” merchant class.

9. Mita System 

Mandatory public service.

Served as an replacement for a tribute system

10. Carpa Nan 

Massive road system built by the Inca that had some 25,000 miles of roads used mainly by the government and military.

It aided in the success of the Inca.

 

Objective 

Key Developments 

Explain how and why states in the Americas developed and changed over time.  

Early Cultures 

A. Explain how the ​Mississippian Culture ​organized their government and society. 

They had a rigid class structure, which was laid out like this from top to bottom: Chief Called Great Sun, priests and nobles, farmers, hunters, merchants, and artisans, enslaved people.

 

  1. How did the Mississippian Culture ​decline​? Why might there be different theories? 

It declined because of weather extremes as per a theory given for why the culture declined. There may be multiple theories because there is no record of why the culture might’ve declined.

 

  1. How do the ​Chaco​ and ​Mesa Verde ​exemplify innovative advancements? Why did they have to do this? The Chaco built large housing structures, the people of Mesa Verde built multi-story homes into the side of cliffs. They had to do this possibly because of the high population and against possible predators.

 

 

The Maya City-States (peak: 250-900 CE) 

  1. Summarize the ​governing structure​ of the Maya. 

 The governing structure of the Maya consisted of city-states, each ruled by a King and consisting of a city and its surrounding land.

 

  1. Explain the ​role of religion​ in Maya government and culture.  

 Mayans made offerings to the gods so prayers might be answered.

 

  1. Why were the Mayans called the ​“Greeks of the New World”​ (give a specific example in your answer)? They were called that because they were based on city-states and possibly due to architectural advancements and styles.

 

 

The Aztecs (c. 1200-1500 CE) 

  1. How did the Aztecs utilize a ​tribute system​ to control their population?  

  To ensure adequate needs for the population.

  1. What other ​methods​ of control did the Aztec utilize to govern? 

  They had soldiers and their families stay in the conquered land to aid in control.

 

  1. How was the Aztec ​society​ organized? What role did ​women​ have?  

  Aztec society was organized like this (top to bottom): Emperor (The Great Speaker), Land-Owning Nobles, scribes and healers, craftspeople and traders, pochteca, peasants and soldiers. Women wove the valuable cloth that local rulers demanded as part of the regular tribute.

 

  1. Explain the role of ​religion​ in Aztec government and culture. How does this differ from the Maya? 

  Human sacrifice probably had a political component. 

 

  1. What key developments led to the ​decline​ of the Aztec? 

  The lack of wheeled vehicles and pack animals, expansion of the empire beyond what it could reasonably govern.

 

The Inca (1438-1572 CE) 

  1. How did the Inca rule their extensive territory efficiently? 

  By dividing the empire into 4 provinces, each with its own governor and bureaucracy.

 

  1. Explain how the Inca’s ​mita system differed from the Aztec tribute system.​  

  It’s different because it’s labor vs having to send some form of tribute.

 

  1. Explain the role of ​religion ​in the Inca Empire (make sure to look at priests, human sacrifice, and animism).  

 Inti, the sun God. Inca’s rulers were considered to be Initi’s representative on Earth.

 

 Summarize key ​achievements​ of the Inca; why were these significant to the empire?

They developed the quipu which was used to record numerical information for trade. Terrace systems for the cultivation of crops such as potatoes and maize. Carpa Nan roadway system with 25,000 miles of roads.


  1. What led to the ​decline ​of the Inca Empire? 

 Incan empire was in the midst of a civil war of succession after the death of emperor Huayna Capac, and the arrival of Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro.

 

 

  1. What arguments surround the connection of these Mesoamerican cultures?  

 Mesoamerican cultures are related to one another because most are based on the Olmec civilization.

MA

Key term/event 

Definition (Who, What, When, Where

Significance (Why this term matters) 

1. Song Dynasty 

The Song Dynasty lasted from 960-1279. The Song Dynasty covered much of Southeast Asia. Neo-Confucian was prevalent such as in supporting the government and shaping social classes.

The Song Dynasty matters because they had prosperity and arts flourished.

2. Grand Canal 

The Grand Canal was a waterway transportation system that spanned over 3,000 miles, it was not costly and it was efficient.

The Grand Canal matters because it would help improve transportation efficiency and cost.

3. Champa rice 

Champa Rice, a strain of rice that is resistant to droughts and ripens fast. It is present in current day Vietnam and it was developed through experimentation. This strain of rice caused substantial expansion of agricultural production in China.

Champa rice matters because it caused substantial expansion of agricultural production in China.

4. Tributary system 

The Tributary system was a system in which the Chinese emperor received goods and money from other states as mandatory tribute.

The Tributary system matters because it resulted in a surplus of wealth in China.

5. Kowtow 

A Kowtow is a ritual in which anyone who greets the Chinese emperor must bow their head down until it reaches the floor.

Kowtows matter because they are a form of respect for the Chinese emperor.

6. Scholar Gentry 

The Scholar Gentry is a new social class created by bureaucratic expansion. Which outnumbered the aristocracy (landowners who inherited their wealth). They were educated in Confucian philosophy and they were the most influential social class in China.

The Scholar Gentry matters because it is a new social class that outnumber the aristocracy and they were educated in confucian philosophy and became the most influential social class in China.

7. Foot Binding 

Foot binding in China was a practice that women in China especially among aristocratic families during the Song Dynasty must do. Social status might be determined by this and it restricted women’s agility greatly to where it prevented them from participating in the public sphere.

Foot binding matters because it prevents Women from participating in the public sphere.

8. Zen Buddhism 

Zen Buddhism is a faith that is composed of Buddhist doctrines combined with elements of Daoist traditions. Zen Buddhism emphasized direct experience and meditation compared to formal education.

Zen Buddhism matters because what it emphasized was direct experience and meditation compared to formal education.

9. Filial piety 

Filial Piety is a duty of family members to set aside their desires for the male head of the family and for the ruler.

Filial Piety matters because it is used to honor and respect.

10. Neo-Confucianism 

Neo-Confucianism developed between 770-840. It combined abstract ideas of Daoism and Buddhism with rational thought. Neo-Confucianism had more emphasis on ethics than the wonders of God and Nature. It became Popular in countries that surround China.

Neo-Confucianism matters because it ended up changing emphasis on ethics from wonders of God and Nature in terms of religion in China.

11. Sinification 

Sinification is the assimilation of Chinese traditions and practices.

Sinification is important because it showcases how a country that is neighboring or close can absorb each other's traditions and practices. 

 

Objective 

Key Developments 

Explain the systems of government employed by Chinese dynasties and how they developed over time.  

  1. Explain how an ​imperial bureaucracy/meritocracy ​works. 

 An imperial bureaucracy works by appointing officials to carry out the empire’s policies. A meritocracy works by appointing officials by having a civil service exam in which if a young man scores well on it then the young man could obtain a highly desirable job in the bureaucracy.

 

  1. How did the Song Dynasty’s imperial bureaucracy represent a ​political continuity?  

 The Song Dynasty’s imperial bureaucracy represents a political continuity by continuing the use of an imperial bureaucracy since the Qin Dynasty.

 

 

  1. How did the imperial bureaucracy change over time?   

 The imperial bureaucracy changed over time by expanding.

 

  1. How did Song China also utilize ​Confucianism ​to maintain control (see pg. 8)? 

 Song China utilized Confucianism to maintain control by taking advantage of China’s privileged classes having increased access to literature and they consumed literature at a significant rate.

 

  1. How did China’s ​imperial bureaucracy/meritocracy ​lead to the decline of the Song?  

 China’s imperial bureaucracy/meritocracy led to the decline of the Song because the bureaucracy became so large it contributed to the empire’s weakness.

 

  

Explain the effects of innovation on the Chinese economy over time.  

  1. What lasting economic impact did the ​Tang Dynasty ​have on the Song Dynasty?  

 The Song Dynasty was able to start off strong due to the invention of gunpowder and usage of Champa rice that was introduced in previous dynasties.

 

 

  1. Trade networks:  

    • How did the ​Grand Canal ​allow Song China to flourish economically?  

 The Grand Canal allowed for more efficient and less costly trade.

 

  • What ​major trade network​ allowed China to trade items and technology (like guns) with Eurasia? 

 The Silk Road allowed China to trade items and technology with Eurasia.

 

  • What two major developments allowed Song China to ​trade by sea​?  

 Advancements in naval technology which allowed them to control the South China sea and redesigned ships to carry more cargo.

 

  1. Give examples of and explain how ​innovations in agriculture​ led to population growth and economic success.  

 Innovations in agriculture such as usage of Champa rice which resulted in an expansion of agricultural goods which led to more population growth and economic success by expanding the choices for agricultural goods and expanding the growth of agricultural goods.

 

  1. China’s earlier discovery of coal​ ​ led to the manufacturing of steel.​ 

● How did ​steel​ impact Song China?  

Steel impacted Song China by allowing for making and reinforcing structures such as bridges, gates and ship anchors. It was also used to strengthen agricultural equipment and for religious items.



  • List ​three ​other items of trade from Song China.   

  • Porcelain

  • Gunpowder

  • Champa rice



  1. Song China became increasingly ​commercialized during proto-industrialization.​

  ● Explain what ​commercialization means for an economy.​   

  Commercialization for an economy to center around certain industries to cause more economic success or economic stability.

 

  • Explain how Song China continued to rely on ​free peasant and artisan labor.  

 Song China continued to rely on free peasant and artisan labor by having them produce more than they actually can sell.

 

 

  1. Explain how the ​Tributary System ​supported both economic and political power for Song China. 

The Tributary System supported both economic and political power for Song China by causing a surplus in wealth for China.


Explain the effects of Chinese cultural traditions on East Asia over time.  

  1. Prior to the Song Dynasty, most of Chinese society lived in rural areas. How does Song China ​differ​ from earlier history, and what makes this change happen?  

 Song China differs from earlier history by and it makes this change happen due to urban areas growing in prominence which led to China becoming the most urbanized land in the world.

  

  1. From most powerful to least powerful, list the ​six classes​ of social hierarchy.  

 Aristocracy, Scholar Gentry, farmers, artisans, merchants, peasants

  

  1. What evidence is there that Chinese society was patriarchal (​ male dominated).  

 Many men in Chinese society were given more opportunity to participate in the social sphere because they were not limited in mobility as many aristocratic women had their feet binded.

  

  1. Intellectual pursuits, such as literature, thrived in the Song Dynasty. What ​inventions from earlier Chinese history ​allowed this to happen?  

  • Woodblock Printing

  • Porcelain

  • Compass

 

 

  1. Buddhism​ continued to shape societies in Asia, especially in Song China.  

● How did it ​migrate ​to China? 

Buddhism migrated to China by the Silk Road from India.

 

 

  • What do the three main types (​Theravada, Mahayana, and Tibetan​) of Buddhism have in common? 

  They all include a belief in the Four Noble Truths and they all embrace the Eight-Fold path.

 

  • Explain how ​Zen Buddhism is a syncretic​ religion.  

  Zen Buddhism is a syncretic religion because the religion is Buddhist doctrines combined with elements of Daoist traditions.

 

  • Buddhism posed a problem for the Tang Dynasty, who grew jealous. How did the Song Dynasty treat Buddhism (make sure to include ​Neo-Confucianism ​in your answer).  

 The Song Dynasty was able to represent ethics rather than wonders of God and nature in religion by combining rational thought with more abstract ideas of Daoism and Buddhism.

  

 

 


 

For each of the following countries, analyze the process and impact of ​sinification. 



JAPAN 

○ Similarities to China:  

 Promoted more than one religion

Woodblock printing

Chinese traditions in politics, art, and literature

 

○ Differences:  

Feudal Society in Japan

No centralized government in Japan

 

 

 

KOREA 

○ Similarities to China: 

 Centralized government

Adopted both Confucian and Buddhist beliefs

Chinese Writing System 


○ Differences: 

Landed aristocracy more powerful in Korea

No meritocracy in Korea

 

 


 

 

 

VIETNAM 

○ Similarities to China:  

 Chinese writing system

Chinese Architectural styles

 

○ Differences: 
Vietnamese Women had more independence

Vietnamese preferred nuclear families

No political centralization in Vietnam



Key Concept 1.2 - Developments in Dar al-Islam

Bentley Textbook 

Chapter 14

AMSCO Reading

  • Explain how systems of belief and their practices affected society in the period from c. 1200 to c. 1450



pages 15-22

  • Explain the causes and effects of the rise of Islamic states over time

pages 297 - 298

  • read from The Abbasid Dynasty and stop at  Economy and Society of the Early Islamic World

  • Explain the effects of intellectual innovation in Dar al-Islam

pages 298 - 309

  • read from Economy and Society of the Early Islamic World through the end of the section


UNIT 1.2| Developments in Dar al-Islam  

Key term/event 

Definition (Who, What, When, Where

Significance (Why this term matters) 

1. House of 

Wisdom 

Renowned center of learning at Baghdad.

 

This Islamic community helped transfer knowledge throughout Afro-Eurasia.

2. Hijab 

A term that represents a practice of modesty or a type of head covering.

Common clothing of a Muslim woman and what is expected of a Muslim woman to practice or wear.

3. Swahili 

?? No information on this key term was found present in the textbook ??

  ?? No information on this key term was found present in the textbook ??

4. Battle of Tours 

A battle in which the Islamic military and Frankish forces fought and the Islamic armies were in defeat, which was rare for them during this time.

The end of rapid expansion for the Islamic armies.

5. “People of the book” (Dhimmi) 

The Muslims, Christians, and Jews living in Al-Andalus

To further clarify what the Muslims considered as people who should not be enslaved.

 

Objective 

Key Developments 

Explain how systems of belief and their practices affected society in the period from 

c. 1200 to c. 1450. 

A. Throughout the chapter are references to the teachings of Islam and Muhammad. Go through and summarize the impact of Islamic teachings on:  

 

● Tolerance: Tolerance of religion, allowing people of different religions to coexist peacefully. 


  • Education: Some scholars were able to develop new bodies of knowledge such as trigonometry.

  

  • Economics: Merchants were not viewed as low class people in Islamic territories.

  

  • Slavery: People who were not “people of the book" could be enslaved but people who were “people of the book” could not be enslaved.

  

  • Women: Women’s overall status was raised but Islamic Women enjoyed a higher status than Christian or Jewish women.

 

 


Explain the causes and effects of the rise of Islamic states over time.  

  1. The Abbasid Empire began to crumble in the 1100s and 1200s due to attacks from outsiders. Summarize the key characteristics/significance of each group below: 

    • Mamluks: They seized control over the government and established the Mamluk Sultanate.

 

 

  • Seljuk Turks: They were Muslims, and they extended their power almost as far east as Western China. The Seljuk leaders called themselves Sultan, caused the highest ranking Abbasid from Caliph to Chief Sunni religious authority.

 

 

  • Crusaders: The Abbasids allowed them to travel in and out freely. 

 

  • Mongols: They were the fourth group to attack the Abbasid Empire and they were famous for conquering.

 

 

  1. Explain what/how economic challenges also led to the decline of the Abbasid Empire. 

 Economic challenges also led to the decline of the Abbasid Empire because Baghdad lost its traditional place as the center of trade, it lost wealth and population.

 

  1. As new Islamic political entities emerged, they demonstrated several cultural continuities. Summarize them.​  

  They basically helped in the widely spreading of different bodies of knowledge.

 

 

  1. Summarize how the activities of Sufis, merchants, and the Islamic military led to the expansion of the Islamic Empire.  

 

  • Sufis:  They were aiding in the spread of Islam and converting people to Islam.

 

 

  • Merchants:  Merchants could get rich from trade and they spent some money for charity (For an Islamic pillar) and some of them were sent out as missionaries.

 

 

  • Military:  They conquered Spain and ruled it for 7 centuries.



E.  How were ​slaves ​and ​women ​treated under Islam?  

 Some enslaved women had served as mistresses in Islamic families where the man had already married 4 wives. Women could study and read but not in the company of men who are not related to them.

 

  1. What was the impact of Islam in:  

    • Africa: Sufis helped spread Islam to Africa.

 

 

 

  • Spain: Muslims ruled Spain for the next 7 centuries.

 

 

 

  1. What marked the limit of Islamic expansion into Western Europe?  

 

The defeat for the Islamic armies at the Battle of Tours. 







Key Concept 1.3 - Developments in South and Southeast Asia

Bentley Textbook

Chapter 15

AMSCO Reading

  • Explain how and why the various belief systems and practices of South and Southeast Asia affected society over time

pages 324 - 332

  • read from Religious Developments in South Asia through the end of the section



pages 23-32

  • Explain how and why various states of South and Southeast Asia developed and maintained power over time

pages 314-324

  • read from Islamic and Hindu Kingdoms and stop at Religious Developments in South Asia

Rather than focus on all of these various Hindu and Buddhist states, you should choose two or three of these to become familiar with for your writing



UNIT 1.3| Developments in South and Southeast Asia 

Key term/event 

Definition (Who, What, When, Where

Significance (Why this term matters) 

1. Delhi sultanate 

Islamic forces bringing Islam into India created the Delhi Sultanate which reigned for 400 years.

A spread of Islam into India

3. Proselytize 

Actively seek converts

Some religions advocate for proselytizing which is to lead people to the “right religion”

4. Caste system 

Indian hierarchy based on occupation

The social classes of India were represented by the Caste system.

6. Bhakti 

Movement 

A movement that emphasized building a strong bond with a deity over formal learning.

It’s related to Sufism which is interesting considering the fact that it is not a movement that is related to Islam.

7. Angkor Wat 

A Buddhist and Hindu temple located in the Angkor kingdom or the Khmer Kingdom.

It reflects the interactions between Hinduism and Buddhism in Southeast Asia.

 






Objective 

Key Developments 

Explain how the various belief systems and practices of South and 

Southeast Asia affected society over time.  

SOUTH ASIA 

A. Most South Asians practiced ​which religions​ before the arrival of Islam?

Buddhism, Daoism, and Hinduism


Summarize the ​main differences​ between Hinduism and Islam. 

  In Hinduism they believe there are multiple deities while Islam believes that there is only one God. While Hinduism has a caste system, Islam does not have a caste system but the status of people can be determined by piety.

 

  1. The arrival of Islam was at first forceful, as Muslim rulers tried to force Hindu and Buddhist subjects to convert. This was unsuccessful, which led to voluntary conversion - ​who voluntarily converted and why​? 

Most converts were Buddhist, and low-caste Hindus (Hindus were looking forward to rise their social status.

   

  1. Describe how Islam impacted the ​social structure​ of South Asia.  

Islam did little to alter the basic social structure of South Asia.

   

  1. Describe how Islam interacted with and impacted South Asian ​culture​.  

  Islam impacted South Asian culture by women having their independence more limited as people became muslims.

 

E. How do the ​Bhaktis and Sufis​ compare?  

  They both emphasize more focus on establishing a strong connection with their God(s)/Deity(ies).

 

SOUTHEAST ASIA 

A. How did Islam spread to Southeast Asia? Why did many in Southeast Asia convert?  

 Islam spread to Southeast 


Explain how and why various states of South and 

Southeast Asia developed and maintained power over time.  

SOUTH ASIA 

  1. How is South Asia characterized politically ​ after the collapse of the Golden Age (Gupta Dynasty)? 

 South Asia is characterized politically disunited, but religiously many are connected through Hinduism.

 

  1. Southern India was more stable than Northern India - summarize the two kingdoms that evidence this. 

 

  • Chola Dynasty (850-1267):  Lasted for over 400 years and extended its rule to Ceylon.

 

  

  • Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1646):  Lasted for over 300 years and began with the arrival of two brothers, Harihara and Bukka.

 

  

  1. Northern India had more upheaval than Southern India - summarize the two states that evidence this. 

● Rajput Kingdoms: Kingdoms formed in northern India and Pakistan. They were Hindu kingdoms led by leaders of many clans who were often at war with one another.

   

 

  • Delhi Sultanate (13-16th centuries):  Reigned from the 13th-16th centuries, Islam had a strong presence in the region.

  

 

SOUTHEAST ASIA 

A. What countries of today correspond with the region of Southeast Asia?  

 China, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar

 

 B. Summarize the importance of the sea-based kingdoms​ in Southeast Asia:​

● Srivijaya Empire (670-1025): A kingdom which built up their navy and charged fees for ships traveling between India and China which led them to prosperity.

  

 

  • Majapahit Kingdom (1293-1520):  They sustained their power by controlling sea routes. And had 98 tributaries at its height.

 

 

  1. Summarize the importance of the land-based kingdoms​ of Southeast Asia:​ 

 ● Sinhala Dynasties: Became a center of Buddhist study and was located in Sri Lanka 

  

 

  • Khmer Empire/Angkor Kingdom (802-1431):  Empire situated near the Mekong River, and the Kingdom’s complex irrigation system led to prosperity.






Key Concept 1.4 - State Building in the Americas 

Bentley Textbook

Chapter 20

AMSCO Reading

  • Explain how and why states in the Americas developed and changed over time

pages 428 -439

  • read from States and Empires in Mesoamerica and North America and stop at The Societies of Oceania   


pages 33-42










1.4| Developments in the Americas 

Key term/event 

Definition (Who, What, When, Where

Significance (Why this term matters) 

1. Cahokia 

Largest of Earth mounds built by Missipians

It is the most significant Earth mound built by the Missippians 

2. Matrilineal society 

Social standing was determined by the women’s side of the family.

Its social standing was determined by this term.

3. City-State 

They were ruled by a king and consisted of a city and its surrounding territory

This term matters because it explains how the government was set up and it also relates to the Greek City-States.

4. Tenochtitlan 

Capital of the Aztecs

The location was planned for defense against enemies.

5. Great Pyramid 

Pyramid built by the Aztecs that rose to 150 feet in the air and is built of stone.

It was used as a temple

6. Chinampas 

Floating gardens built by the Aztecs to increase the amount of space for food production.

It was used to aid in agricultural production.

7. Theocracy 

A Government ruled by religious leaders.

Government was greatly influenced by religion

8. Pochteca 

A special merchant class that traded in luxury goods.

It’s separated from the “ordinary” merchant class.

9. Mita System 

Mandatory public service.

Served as an replacement for a tribute system

10. Carpa Nan 

Massive road system built by the Inca that had some 25,000 miles of roads used mainly by the government and military.

It aided in the success of the Inca.

 

Objective 

Key Developments 

Explain how and why states in the Americas developed and changed over time.  

Early Cultures 

A. Explain how the ​Mississippian Culture ​organized their government and society. 

They had a rigid class structure, which was laid out like this from top to bottom: Chief Called Great Sun, priests and nobles, farmers, hunters, merchants, and artisans, enslaved people.

 

  1. How did the Mississippian Culture ​decline​? Why might there be different theories? 

It declined because of weather extremes as per a theory given for why the culture declined. There may be multiple theories because there is no record of why the culture might’ve declined.

 

  1. How do the ​Chaco​ and ​Mesa Verde ​exemplify innovative advancements? Why did they have to do this? The Chaco built large housing structures, the people of Mesa Verde built multi-story homes into the side of cliffs. They had to do this possibly because of the high population and against possible predators.

 

 

The Maya City-States (peak: 250-900 CE) 

  1. Summarize the ​governing structure​ of the Maya. 

 The governing structure of the Maya consisted of city-states, each ruled by a King and consisting of a city and its surrounding land.

 

  1. Explain the ​role of religion​ in Maya government and culture.  

 Mayans made offerings to the gods so prayers might be answered.

 

  1. Why were the Mayans called the ​“Greeks of the New World”​ (give a specific example in your answer)? They were called that because they were based on city-states and possibly due to architectural advancements and styles.

 

 

The Aztecs (c. 1200-1500 CE) 

  1. How did the Aztecs utilize a ​tribute system​ to control their population?  

  To ensure adequate needs for the population.

  1. What other ​methods​ of control did the Aztec utilize to govern? 

  They had soldiers and their families stay in the conquered land to aid in control.

 

  1. How was the Aztec ​society​ organized? What role did ​women​ have?  

  Aztec society was organized like this (top to bottom): Emperor (The Great Speaker), Land-Owning Nobles, scribes and healers, craftspeople and traders, pochteca, peasants and soldiers. Women wove the valuable cloth that local rulers demanded as part of the regular tribute.

 

  1. Explain the role of ​religion​ in Aztec government and culture. How does this differ from the Maya? 

  Human sacrifice probably had a political component. 

 

  1. What key developments led to the ​decline​ of the Aztec? 

  The lack of wheeled vehicles and pack animals, expansion of the empire beyond what it could reasonably govern.

 

The Inca (1438-1572 CE) 

  1. How did the Inca rule their extensive territory efficiently? 

  By dividing the empire into 4 provinces, each with its own governor and bureaucracy.

 

  1. Explain how the Inca’s ​mita system differed from the Aztec tribute system.​  

  It’s different because it’s labor vs having to send some form of tribute.

 

  1. Explain the role of ​religion ​in the Inca Empire (make sure to look at priests, human sacrifice, and animism).  

 Inti, the sun God. Inca’s rulers were considered to be Initi’s representative on Earth.

 

 Summarize key ​achievements​ of the Inca; why were these significant to the empire?

They developed the quipu which was used to record numerical information for trade. Terrace systems for the cultivation of crops such as potatoes and maize. Carpa Nan roadway system with 25,000 miles of roads.


  1. What led to the ​decline ​of the Inca Empire? 

 Incan empire was in the midst of a civil war of succession after the death of emperor Huayna Capac, and the arrival of Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro.

 

 

  1. What arguments surround the connection of these Mesoamerican cultures?  

 Mesoamerican cultures are related to one another because most are based on the Olmec civilization.