WHAP: All Through The End of Time Period 2 (1.1-4.7)

Describe the Renaissance.

A "rebirth" of Greco-Roman culture (arts and intellectual pursuits) in Europe that lasted from the 1300s through the 1500s. It reflected the spirit of individualism though the growth of humanism and encouraged a split from religious-based thinking and a focus on things of this world (secularism). This "rebirth" was largely possible due to the interconnectivity of the world created by the focus of Dar al-Islam on collecting and expanding upon the world's knowledge and the Pax Mongolica. This will become the seed that will cause Europeans to question the preexisting order of the feudal world they existed in.

Describe the role that crops & animals of Afro-Eurasia played within the Columbian Exchange.

Afro-Eurasian fruit trees, grains, sugar, and domesticated animals were brought by Europeans to the Americas, while other foods were brought by African slaves. (e.g. - Domesticated Animals: Horses, Pigs, Cattle) (e.g. - Foods brought by African slaves: Okra, Rice)

Describe the rise and expansion of the Russian Empire.

After breaking free of Mongol control in the late 1400s, princes from Moscow began to take control of much of Russia, eliminating the authority of local princes. Ivan The Terrible, grand prince of Moscow, encouraged Russian peasants to settle in lands he had conquered. Ivan centralized his authority, claimed divine rights to rule, and named himself czar, and established Moscow as the capital of the new Russian empire. By the 1600s, Russia began to colonize and expand eastward into the region of Siberia.

Describe the role of crops of the Americas played within the Columbian Exchange.

American foods became staple crops in various parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Diets, life expectancy and standard of living improved in various parts of Afro-Eurasia. (e.g. Corn, Potatoes, Tomatoes, Rubber Tree, Yams)

Describe the impact of 'travelers' on the 'Connectivity' of the era c. 1200-1450.*

As exchange networks intensified, an increasing number of travelers within Afro-Eurasia wrote about their travels and peaked the interest of domestic populations to products, knowledge and lifestyles from abroad (e.g. - Ibn Battuta, Margery Kempe, Marco Polo)

What was the political impact of the Trans-Saharan Trade Network?*

As increasing trade led to new wealth in North Africa, states and empires expanded as they facilitated Afro-Eurasian trade and communication. (eg. Mali, Ghana and Songhai empires in West Africa)

What were the different branches of Buddhism, where did it originate, and where did they spread?*

Buddhism's core beliefs originated in India as an alternative to Hinduism (in opposition to the caste system) stressing reincarnation and inner reflection and included a variety of branches, schools, and practices. (eg. Branches of Buddhism: Theravada, Mahayana, Tibetan). Buddhism spread away from India into East Asia and Southeast Asia.)

Describe the political organization of Japan in the 13th Century.

Characterized by decentralized political power in which warlords (daimyo) controlled land and economy (no Chinese style bureaucracy). Decentralization led to conflicts among noble families - samurai (professional warriors), who protected noble lands and observed Bushido (code of honor for samurai)

What was the cultural relationship between China and the rest of East Asia in the 13th Century?*

Chinese cultural traditions continued (eg. Filial Piety, Confucianism, Heian architecture) and they dominated neighboring states (Korea and Japan).

What was Confucianism and Filial Piety?

Confucianism was a philosophy that provided a structure to society based upon the 'Five Relationships' where people used a superior/subordinate relationship. One of the features of it is Filial Piety where older generations are highly respected and venerated by the younger generations.

Describe Dar al-Islam in the time c. 1200-1450.

Dar al-Islam "house of peace" refers to all territory under the rule of Islam. Islam originated on the Arabian peninsula. After Muhammad's death, Islam spread widely, ushering in an Islamic 'Golden Age' (8th-13th centuries). Though dominated by Islam, Dar al-Islam was largely tolerant religiously, especially towards Judaism and Christianity.

What products were traded along the Silk Road c.1200-1450?

Demand for luxury goods increased in Afro- Eurasia. Southeast Asian, Chinese and Indian merchants traded silk and spices west to consumers in central Asia, Iran, Arabia and Europe. Central Asian merchants traded horses and jade eastward.

What was the status of the Indian Ocean Trade Network in the time c. 1450-1750?*

Despite some disruption and restructuring due to the arrival of Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch merchants, existing trade networks in the Indian Ocean continued to flourish and included intra-Asian trade and Asian merchants. (e.g. - Indian Ocean Asian merchants: Swahili Arabs, Omanis, Gujaratis, Javanese)

What were the political effects of the Indian Ocean Exchange?*

Due to increased wealth, influence and population, the Indian Ocean trading network caused the growth of states/empires (e.g. city-states of Swahili Coast, Gujarat, Sultanate of Malacca).

Describe the dominant political system in Europe c. 1200-1450.

Europe was dominated by the decentralized political system of feudalism which is a result of weak national royal monarchies and strong local nobility. Land, a traditional source of power and legitimacy, was exchanged for loyalty from a higher lord to a lower lord. Like in Japan, local lords collected taxes, mobilized armed forces and settled legal disputes.

Describe the Columbian Exchange.

European colonization of the Americas led to the unintentional transfer of disease spreaders, including mosquitoes and rats, and the spread of diseases that were endemic in the Eastern Hemisphere, including smallpox, measles, and malaria. Some of these diseases substantially reduced the indigenous populations, with catastrophic effects in many areas.

Describe the role that disease played within the Columbian Exchange.

European colonization of the Americas led to the unintentional transfer of disease spreaders, including mosquitoes and rats, and the spread of diseases that were endemic in the Eastern Hemisphere, including smallpox, measles, and malaria. Some of these diseases substantially reduced the indigenous populations, with catastrophic effects in many areas.

Describe the rise and expansion of the Safavid Empire.

Following a war against the Ottoman Turks in 1514, the Safavid family consolidated their control over modern-day Iran and ruled until 1736. They established the Shi'a sect of Islam as the official relgion of the empire. Under Shah Abbas the Great, the army was modernized and long-distance trade flourished. Like other absolute rulers, Abbas sought to strengthen his power and expand central authority at the expense of the nobility. Constant conflict with the Ottomans, coupled with the threat of an increasingly stronger Russian Empire to the north and the Mughal Empire to the south led to ongoing conflict.

How did East Asian states react to the increased presence of European maritime powers in the region c. 1450-1750?

Following the Portuguese arrival in Japan in 1543, European powers began to attempt to establish commercial relationships in East Asia. This was later followed by the arrival of Christian missionaries who sought to convert the indigenous people of East Asia. Fearing foreign cultural influence, Japan developed a policy of isolationism beginning in the 1600s. Similarly, the Ming Dynasty in China established economic policies that regulated interaction with outsiders. The Ming also established a tax policy that allowed for payment in silver only, fueling China's demand for silver and a frenzied drive to supply it by European maritime powers.

What were the cultural impacts of the Mongol conquests?*

Following the initial conquest of large portions of Afro-Eurasia by the Mongols under Temujin (Chinggis Khan), the newly formed empire was divided into four political entities or khanates. In the majority of instances, each khanate deferred to the local cultural traditions, helping to facilitate cross-cultural contacts across the larger empire. Eventually, Mongol culture disappeared as it was overtaken by the local culture. (e.g. - Adoption of Uyghur script, spread of paper innovations that would lead to Gutenberg printing press)

Describe Spain's role in Maritime Exploration c. 1450-1750.

Following the reconquista (retaking of Islamic Spain by Christian monarchs) the Spanish crown sponsored the voyages of Columbus and subsequent voyages across the Atlantic and Pacific, eventually establishing colonies in the Americas. These state sponsored voyages dramatically increased European interest in transoceanic travel and trade.

Describe the Abbasid Caliphate.

From 750-1258 CE, the Abbasid royal family controlled the region known as Dar al-Islam. With their capital in Baghdad, the Abbasid expanded their control through both military conquests and conversion to Islam. The caliphate extended from its western edge in present day Spain, across north Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and parts of west Asia (present day Afghanistan, but not South Asia)

Describe the features of government in Southeast Asia from c. 1200-1450.*

Government maintained and justified their rule based upon adherence to religion. Early in this timeframe, most states used Hinduism as their justification. Later, Hinduism will be replaced by either Buddhism or Islam. (eg. Hindu/Buddhist/Islam states of South East Asia: Srivijaya Empire, Khmer Empire, Majapahit, Sukhothal kingdom, Sinhala dynasties)

Describe the traditional cultural characteristics in South Asia (present day India) prior to the arrival of Islam.

Hinduism and its focus on reincarnation and the resulting strict rigidity of social class in the 'Caste System' was dominant throughout the Indian subcontinent. However, India's diversity would later allow for the emergence of new belief systems like Buddhism, Jainism, etc and eventually the spread of Islam.

Who was Ibn Battuta and why was he significant?

Ibn Battuta, an Islamic scholar known for his extensive travels, whose accounts of which were published. Over a period of thirty years, Ibn Battuta visited most of the known Islamic world as well as many non-Muslim lands. His journeys included trips to North Africa, the Horn of Africa, West Africa and Eastern Europe, and to the Middle East, South Asia, Central Asia, Southeast Asia and China. His written works was an important document that shed light on many aspects of the social, cultural, and political history of a great part of the Muslim world and beyond.

How did the new trade and economic system impact social class in the time c. 1450-1750?

Imperial conquests and widening global economic opportunities contributed to the formation of new political and economic elites, including in China with the transition to the Qing Dynasty and in the Americas with the rise of the Casta system, and burgeoning middle class in Europe.

How did Land-Based empires expand their territory in the time c. 1450-1750?

Imperial expansion relied on the increased use of gunpowder, cannons, and armed trade to establish large empires in both hemispheres.

Describe the Protestant Reformation and its consequences.

In 1517, Martin Luther wrote the Ninety-five Theses, a list of arguments directed against the Roman Catholic Church's practice of selling indulgences (pardoning of sins) and corruption amongst the clergy. The Reformation spread across northern Europe creating a schism within the Catholic church. A new branch of Christianity, Protestantism, developed and spread as a result. In response, the Counter-Reformation led to reforms within the Catholic church. Both reform movements led to the spread of Christianity. Often political leaders used this religious conflict to further and centralize their authority.

Describe the new states in Africa c. 1200-1450*

In Africa, the spread of Islam combined with long distance trade amongst Afro-Eurasia brought about the rise of new states (eg. Great Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Hausa kingdoms, Mali, Ghana). Additionally, highly developed urban centers will develop in Eastern Africa.

What were the consequences of the Muslim world being the main center of knowledge during its golden age (8th-13th centuries)?

In Europe, the cultural reawakening of the Renaissance, focused on 'rediscovery' of Greek and Roman scholarship; in North Africa, the spread of Islam and development of new centers of learning; in South Asia, the development of a new versions of Islam like Sufism; in the Indian Ocean, the spread of maritime navigational technology.

How did the Indian Ocean Exchange impact the development of Diasporic communities?*

In key places along important trade routes, foreign merchants set up diasporic communities where they introduced their own cultural traditions into the indigenous cultures and, in turn, indigenous cultures influenced merchant cultures. (e.g. Arab and Persian communities in East Africa, Chinese merchant communities in Southeast Asia, Malay communities in the Indian Ocean Basin)

Describe the governments in South Asia from c. 1200-1450.

In southern South Asia (present day India), the Vijayanagara Empire controlled the political system and maintained and justified their rule based upon adherence to Hinduism. In northern South Asia (present day Indian and Pakistan), the Delhi Sultanate controlled the political system. The Delhi Sultanate government was run by Muslims, but since their population was largely Hindu there was a great deal of religious tolerance.

Describe the new states in the Americas c. 1200-1450*

In the Americas, new states expanded their scope and reach using military conquest, state-sponsored religion and centralized economic systems to dominate and incorporate smaller states (eg. New States in the Americas: Mexica (Aztec), Inca, Chaco, Mesa Verde, Cahokia).

Describe the migration of humans as part of the Columbian Exchange.

In the early stages of the Columbian exchange, migration occurred on two fronts. Europeans migrated to the Americas in search of new opportunities. Cash crops, like sugar, were grown primarily on plantations with coerced labor in the form of African slaves. Very few people migrated from the Americas to Afro-Eurasia.

Describe the effects on cultural traditions from the 'Connectivity' of the era c. 1200-1450.*

Increased cross-cultural interactions resulted in the diffusion and syncretism of literary, artistic, and cultural traditions. (e.g. The influence of Buddhism in East Asia, The spread of Hinduism and Buddhism into Southeast Asia, The spread of Islam in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia)

Describe the effects on scientific and technological innovations from the 'Connectivity' of the era c. 1200-1450.*

Increased cross-cultural interactions resulted in the diffusion of scientific and technological innovations. (e.g. Gunpowder from China, Paper from China, Algebra from India, Medical advances from West Asia, Revival of Classical Greek & Roman philosophy)

Describe the features of culture in Southeast Asia from 1200-1450.

Increased cross-cultural interactions, largely due to the trade across the Indian Ocean, contributed to the spread of belief systems such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and later Islam into Southeast Asia. Many rulers in this part of the world called themselves rajas "kings", as Indian rulers did. Many also adopted Sanskrit (writing style from India) and constructed Indian-style temples within their walled cities.

Describe some of the cultural characteristics of East Africa c. 1200-1450.

Islam arrived along the East African coast as a result of long distance trade within the Indian Ocean. Muslim merchants brought with them their religion, language, and other ideas. Over time, a syncretic language emerged, blending traditional Bantu languages with Arabic words to create Swahili. Muslim traders benefited from East African gold, ivory, iron goods, exotic animals, etc.

Describe the changes to culture in South Asia (present day India) after with the arrival of Islam.*

Islam's expansion grew in South Asia as a result of the value it placed on equality within the Muslim community and was accepted by those Hindus who were often at the lowest caste level. Various types of syncretic belief systems emerge that combined elements of both Islam and Hinduism. (eg. Sufism, Bhakti Movement).

How and why did Islam's influence spread so widely and rapidly?

Islam's influence continued to expand to many parts of Afro-Eurasia due in small part to military expansion, but primarily spread due to the activities of merchants and missionaries along long-distance trade routes.

What was the cultural and economic impact of the Trans-Saharan Trade Network?

Islamic merchants were an important part of the Tran-Saharan Trade Routes spreading Islam throughout Northern Africa. Gold, slaves, and ivory from the south were often exchanged for clothes, horses, salt and manufactured goods.

What were the sources/origins of the innovations that made Europe's Age of Exploration possible?

Knowledge, scientific learning, and technology from the Classical, Islamic, and Asian worlds spread, facilitating European technological developments and innovation.

What were the impacts of Silk Road trade c. 1250-1400?

Long distance trade along the silk road obviously increased the volume of trade and expanded the existing trade routes throughout Afro-Eurasia. More importantly, the increased cross-cultural exchange resulted in the spread of cultural and religious traditions as well as scientific and technological innovations. Additionally, the knowledge of the process to make products like iron, steel, gunpowder and paper spread out of China.

What was the demographic impact of the Silk Roads?*

Long distance trade — including the Silk Roads — led to an increased volume of trade and expanded the geographical range of existing trade routes promoting the growth of powerful new trading cities. (eg. Trading Cities: Kashgar, Samarkand)

Describe the rise and expansion of the Manchu Empire (Qing Dynasty).

Manchus from the north (non-Han peoples) invaded China and claimed the "Mandate of Heaven" in 1644 and ruled until 1911. The majority Chinese (Han) population saw the Manchu as a "foreign" dynasty. The Qing, following the political example of the Ming, ruled through a highly centralized system of Confucian scholar-bureaucrats. The Qing were great patrons of the arts and were responsible for expanding the empire.

As both Land-Based and Maritime-Based Empires expanded their territory, how did they deal with the ever-growing cultural diversity of their populations in the time c. 1450-1750?*

Many states, such as the Mughal and Ottoman empires, adopted practices to accommodate the ethnic and religious diversity of their subjects or to utilize economic, political, and military contributions of different ethnic or religious groups. In other cases, states suppressed diversity or limited certain groups' roles in society, politics, or the economy. (e.g. - Expulsion of Jews from Spain and Portugal; the acceptance of Jews in the Ottoman Empire, Restrictive policies against Han Chinese in Qing China, Varying status of different classes of women within the Ottoman Empire)

Describe the dominant social system of Europe c. 1200-1450.

Medieval society was usually divided into three classes: clergy (religious leaders), warrior and worker - a clear illustration of the rigid political, social and economic inequality that existed with little or no social mobility. Most of the European population existed as serfs - Serfdom was a type of forced labor system, where serfs were tied to land as agricultural labor. They received housing, food and protection in return for their labor.

Describe Mercantilism and how it was employed by maritime empires.

Mercantilism was an economic system that attempted to develop a positive balance of trade while identifying the world economic model as a zero sum game. Mercantilist policies and practices were used by European rulers to expand and control their economies and claim overseas territories. Taxes on imports (tariffs), joint-stock companies, influenced by these mercantilist principles, were used by rulers and merchants to finance exploration and were used by rulers to compete against one another in global trade.

Why did Dar al-Islam become a center of knowledge and culture during its 'Golden Age' (8th-13th centuries)?

Muslim states encouraged significant intellectual innovations. Their religious tolerance allowed for the acceptance of diverse scholarly communities from across Afro-Eurasia that produced significant advancements in a plethora of scientific and cultural fields like mathematics, medicine and literature.

Describe the economies established in the Americas by Maritime Empires in the time c. 1450-1750.*

Newly developed colonial economies in the Americas largely depended on agriculture, using existing forced labor systems or developing new ones.. These forced labor systems were used in either cash crop cultivation or the extraction of natural resources (particularly silver). (e.g. Examples of labor systems: the Incan mit'a system now run by the Spanish, and new labor systems including chattel slavery, indentured servitude, and encomienda and hacienda systems.)

Describe the English and French role in Maritime Exploration c. 1450-1750 c. 1450-1750.

Northern Atlantic crossings were undertaken under English and French sponsorship, often with the goal of finding alternative sailing routes to Asia. The English and French eventually established colonies in North America and the Caribbean islands. The French largely focused their activities on the fur trade in what would become Canada while the English established settlement colonies along the east coast of what would later become the United States.

How did Spain establish and extend its influence over its colonies in the Americas (Latin America)?*

Often using lethal and horrific methods, Spanish 'conquistadors' will wage direct and indirect war against indigenous populations. Once defeated, indigenous populations left alive would be forced into various coerced labor systems in an attempt to extract resources from the land. (e.g. Examples of Conquistadors: Hernán Cortés, Fransisco Pizzaro

Describe the continuity of the labor systems in Afro-Eurasia in the time c. 1450-1750?*

Peasant and artisan labor continued and intensified in many regions as the demand for food and consumer goods increased. (e.g. - Increased peasant and artisan labor: Western Europe--wool and linen, India--cotton, China--silk)

Describe Portugal's role in Maritime Exploration c. 1450-1750.

Portugal's government funded a development of navigational technology in order to establish a trading-post empire. Portugal established trade-posts (small port cities on the coast... not colonization) along both the western and eastern shore of Africa and India in order to access the trade goods of the Indian Ocean Trade Network. This was a reaction to the denial of access by the Ottoman Empire to trade goods imported via land routes.

What methods did rulers of Land-Based Empires use to administer (run) their government in the time c. 1450-1750?*

Recruitment and use of bureaucratic elites, as well as the development of military professionals, became more common among rulers who wanted to maintain centralized control over their populations and resources. (e.g. Ottoman devshirme, Salaried Samurai)

(HUB DATE) 1324 CE Mansa Musa's pilgrimage.

Represents an era of wealth and power of new states/empires spreading along new long-distance trade routes. This date also represents the spread of Islam to North Africa along with the associated spread of the importance of learning and knowledge.

(HUB Date) 1453 CE Ottomans seized Constantinople.

Represents the beginning of the era of Land-Based empires using gunpowder and other methods to expand and maintain control of their empires. Here, the Muslim Ottomans, push into the Christian European continent demonstrating the supremacy of Muslim technology. With the competition, the Ottomans cutoff European access to goods from the various long-distance trade routes causing Europeans to look for access to these trade routes elsewhere.

(HUB Date) 1492 CE Columbus sailed the "Ocean Blue".

Represents the beginning of the era of Maritime empires (think European states) looking to the ocean to establish new trade routes to access the traditional long-distance trade routes. This begins the slow rise of European political, economic and military power across the globe.

(HUB DATE) 1346 - 1351 CE Bubonic Plague across Afroeurasia.

Represents the beginning of the era of heightened connectivity amongst Afro-Eurasia. While this connectivity will foster cultural syncretism, advanced economies and a diffusion of scientific and technological innovations, it will also bring a biological exchange including that of disease (epidemic and pandemic).

(HUB DATE) 1258 CE Mongols sack Baghdad.

Represents the end of the Islamic Golden Age and the Song Dynasty in China and the height of the Mongol Empire. While extremely destructive in the short term of their conquests, the Mongol era provides context to the long-distance trade routes of Afro-Eurasia and the cross-cultural exchange that was a result of this trade.

(HUB DATE) 1405-1433CE Zheng He Voyages.

Represents the era of heightened connectivity amongst Afro-Eurasia resulting from long-distance trade. While this connectivity will foster cultural syncretism, advanced economies and a diffusion of scientific and technological innovations, it also shows China's political, cultural and economic dominance of Afro-Eurasia. Its costs will also have some bearing on China's choice to become much more isolationist in the coming decades at a time when Europeans are just starting to enter the "Age of Exploration" and "discover" the "New World".

(HUB Date) 1600-1602 British and Dutch East India Companies founded.

Represents the era when European maritime powers began to dominate the world economy. Europeans were past the effort to simply access the major global trade routes. They have developed their own economic system (mercantilism) and economic innovations (joint stock companies) that demonstrate that they are the dominant force in global trade. These two companies, separate from their own countries' governments, will have larger private militaries and wealth than most other countries in the world.

(HUB Date) 1532 CE Fall of Incan Empire to Pizzaro.

Represents the era when Maritime Empires begin to dominate regions around the world. Here, Spain takes control of the one of the most powerful and advanced civilizations of the Americas and begins the genocide of an entire people. Consequently, Spain will take control of one of the largest silver deposits in the world. Within a decade or so East Asian states will begin to isolate themselves from interactions with Maritime Empires.

What methods did rulers of Land-Based empires use to legitimize and justify their power in the time c. 1450-1750?*

Rulers continued to use religious ideas, art, and monumental architecture to legitimize their rule. (e.g. Religious ideas: Mexica practice of human sacrifice, European notion of divine rights of monarch,) (e.g. Art & Monumental Architecture: Qing imperial portraits, Incan Sun Temple of Cuzco, Mughal Taj Mahal, European palaces, such as Versailles)

What methods did rulers of Land-Based empires use to raise money to pay for their expansion in the time c. 1450-1750?*

Rulers used tribute collection, tax farming, and innovative tax-collection systems to generate revenue in order to forward state power and expansion (e.g. Tax-collection systems: Mughal zamindar tax collection, Ottoman tax farming, Mexica tribute lists, Ming practice of collecting taxes in hard currency)

How and why did Sikhism develop in South Asia (modern-day India) in the time c. 1450-1750?

Sikhism developed in South Asia in a context of interactions between Hinduism and Islam. Religions and religious teachers do not exist in a vacuum: India, at this time, was ruled by Mughal emperors who were Muslim and society was a mix of Muslims and Hindus.

How did enslaved people react to the expansion of control by Maritime Empires in the time c. 1450-1750?*

Slave resistance challenged existing authorities in the Americas. (e.g. - Slave Resistance: The establishment of Maroon societies in the Caribbean and Brazil, North American slave resistance)

Describe the Silk Roads.

Sometimes called the Silk Routes, the Silk Road was a network of Eurasian trade routes active from the second century BCE until the mid-15th century. It was an intricate web of land routes connecting East and Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, the Middle East, East Africa and Europe. It played a central role in facilitating economic, cultural, political, and religious interactions between the East and West of Afro-Eurasia.

Describe the economy of Song China.

Song China was a largely agrarian society, supported by peasant labor and the adoption of drought resistant Champa Rice (Orig. Vietnam). The Grand Canal allowed for expanded agricultural production and a growth in population. As a result, China became the most urbanized region in the world and produced highly sought after goods such as porcelain and silk.

How did conquered people react to the expansion of territory by Maritime Empires in the time c. 1450-1750?*

State expansion and centralization led to resistance from an array of social, political, and economic groups on a local level. (e.g. Local Resistance: Pueblo Revolts, Fronde, Cossack revolts, Maratha Conflict with Mughals, Ana Nzinga's resistance (as ruler of Ndongo and Matamba), Metacom's War (King Philip's War)

What was the political (government) organization of Dar al-Islam in the late 13th Century?*

The Abbasid Caliphate (kingdom) once dominated Dar al-Islam, but fragmented at the beginning of this time and a new Islamic states emerged(eg. New Islamic states: Seljuk Empire, Mamluk sultanate of Egypt, Delhi Sultanate).

Describe the cultural synthesis that developed as a result of the establishment of maritime empires c. 1450-1750.*

The Atlantic trading system involved the movement of labor--including enslaved people--and the mixing of African, American, and European cultures and peoples, with all parties contributing to this cultural synthesis. In some cases, the increase and intensification of interactions between newly connected hemispheres expanded the reach and furthered the development of existing religions, and contributed to religious conflicts and the development of syncretic belief systems and practices. (e.g. - Vodoun, Obeah, Dia de Los Muertos)

Describe the forced labor systems used by states in the Americas from c. 1200-1450.

The Inca required that conquered people provide labor on state-sponsored building projects (roads, architecture, etc) on an annual basis as part of the 'Mita System'. The Mexica (Aztec) required their subjugated neighbors to provide tribute in the form of monetary payments, labor, and individuals for human sacrifice. Both are examples of centralized economic planning.

What were some of the maritime technologies that helped usher in Europe's Age of Exploration?*

The developments included the production of new tools, innovations in ship designs, and an improved understanding of regional wind and current patterns--all of which made transoceanic travel and trade possible. (e.g. Innovations in ship design: Caravel, Currack, Fluyt, Dhows e.g. Navigational technologies: Lateen Sail, Magnetic Compass, Astronomical charts, Sternpost Rudder)

How did innovations change East Asia in the 13th Century?*

The economy of Song China grew drastically as a result of increased production, long distance trade, and innovations in agriculture and manufacturing. (eg - Champa rice, Grand Canal expansion, Steel and iron production, Porcelains production, Gunpowder, block printing)

What environmental factors played a role in the Indian Ocean Exchange?

The expansion and intensification of long-distance trade routes often depended on environmental knowledge, including the study of the monsoon winds which merchants considered when planning their maritime voyages.

How did the establishment of Maritime Empires and continued growth of long-distance trade impact Africa in the time c. 1450-1750?

The expansion of maritime trading networks fostered the growth of states in Africa, including the Asante and the Kingdom of the Kongo, whose participation in trading networks led to an increase in their influence.

Describe the Atlantic trading system in the time c. 1450-1750.

The fourth great long-distance trade route is established that connects the Americas to the Afro-Eurasian economies. The Atlantic trading system involved the movement of goods, precious metals, and labor, including enslaved people. This is often known as the Triangular Trade. Since this a three sided trade route, the route between Africa and the Americas often transported kidnapped Africans intended to be used as slave on plantations. This portion of the trading system is called the Middle Passage.

How did innovation encourage trade along the Trans- Saharan Network?*

The growth of long distance trade was encouraged by innovations in existing transportation technologies throughout the Trans-Saharan trade routes (e.g. Caravans & Camel Saddles)

How did innovation encourage trade along the Indian Ocean Trade Network?*

The growth of long-distance trade in standard consumer goods like that of the Indian Ocean Trade Network was encouraged by innovations in maritime technologies (e.g. use of the magnetic compass, the astrolabe and larger ship designs).

What was the demographic impact on Africa resulting from the birth of the Atlantic Slave Trade in the time 1450-1750?

The kidnapping and export of so many millions, particularly men, impacted family life, and in many of the areas from which people were stolen, there tended to be majority female populations. The European use of chattel slavery also led to an increase in intertribal warfare, and over time, the dissolutionof once powerful kingdoms, especially those located along the coast. However, despite the export of so many Africans, the population did not decrease on the continent, as the introduction of new food crops from the Americas helped stabilize the population.

How did innovation encourage trade along the The Silk Roads?*

The long distance trade along the Silk Road was encouraged by innovations in previously existing transportation and commercial methods (eg. caravanserai, forms of credit such as Bills of exchange, Banking houses, paper money).

Describe the dominant economic system of Europe c. 1200-1450.

The manorial system described the division of land within European states. In medieval Europe, manors were self-sufficient communities that maintained bakeries, mills, breweries, and wineries. Under a lord's direction, serfs provided agricultural labor and produced most of the necessary goods. The Lord of the manor established and provided government, police services, and justice for the manor.

Describe the flow of goods throughout the global economy in the time c. 1450-1750.

The new global circulation of goods was facilitated by chartered European monopoly companies and the global flow of silver, especially from Spanish colonies in the Americas, which was used to purchase Asian goods for the Atlantic markets and satisfy Chinese demand for silver. Regional markets continued to flourish in Afro-Eurasia by using established commercial practices and new transoceanic and regional shipping services developed by European merchants.

Describe the changing influence of elites throughout land-based and maritime empires in the time c. 1450-1750.*

The power of existing political and economic elites fluctuated as the elites confronted new challenges to their ability to affect the policies of the increasingly powerful monarchs and leaders. (e.g. - Existing Elites: Ottoman timars, Russian boyars, European nobility)

Describe the impact on the environment from the 'Connectivity' of the era c. 1200-1450.*

There was continued diffusion of crops and pathogens, with epidemic diseases, including the bubonic plague, along trade routes. (e.g. Bananas in Africa, new rice varieties in East Asia, spread of citrus in the Mediterranean)

Describe the rise and expansion of the Mughal Empire.

This Islamic (Sunni) empire was established in India following the defeat of the Delhi Sultanate in 1526 by Babar, largely due to their command of gunpowder. During the pinnacle of the empire, Akbar the Great unified much of the Indian subcontinent, employing religious tolerance in an attempt to rule the Hindu majority of the subcontinent without dissent (eliminated jizya or "head tax" imposed on non-Muslims). Islamic art and architecture flourished under the Mughals, as evidenced by the building of the Taj Mahal.

What were the traditional features of government in East Asia (China) in the 13th Century?

This most significant dynasty was the Song Dynasty of China, which used traditional methods of Confucianism, an imperial bureaucracy, 'Mandate of Heaven' and the Civil Service Exam to maintain and justify its rule.

How did the Muslim world facilitiate the spread knowledge and culture during its Golden Age (8th-13th centuries)?*

Through long distance trade, missionary work and its central location within Afro-Eurasia, Muslim states became the 'collectors' and 'distributors' of past and current learning. (eg. House of Wisdom, translated works of Greek and Roman philosophy, symbol for zero, algebra, geometry)

What was the Pax Mongolica and what were its economic impacts?*

Under Mongol rule, a nomadic people who recognized the value of secure trade routes and safe passage for merchants, large imperial states were connected by extensive trading networks. For transactions between states to go smoothly, it was imperative that political and diplomatic ties be strong. This diplomacy resulted in renewed use of the Silk Roads, which reestablished Afro-Eurasian trade and communication as new people were drawn into Pax Mongolica, or "Mongol Peace". This peace not only allowed for economic growth but also the transfer of technological innovations across the empire. (e.g. - Transfer of Greco-Islamic medical knowledge to western Europe,Transfer of numbering systems to Europe)

How did the Mongols rise and come to dominate much of Asia?

Under the leadership of Genghis (Chinggis) Khan, the various Mongol tribes were brought under a single confederation. As a nomadic people, the Mongols were highly skilled horseback hunters who used these skills to form a lethal and destructive military. Using ferocious and often horrific methods, the Mongols militarily conquered most of Asia including present day Middle East, Iran, Russia, and almost all of China.

Describe the religious breakdown of Europe c. 1200-1450.

Western and northern Europe was dominated by a version of Christianity called Roman Catholicism which was led by a 'Pope' and headquartered in Rome. In eastern Europe and present day Russia, a different version of Christianty called 'Eastern Orthodox' dominated and it was headed by a person with the title of 'Patriarch'. Present day Spain and the Balkans (Southeastern Europe) had a large population of Muslims. Judaism is spread throughout Europe, but mostly located in small pockets in urban centers within central and eastern Europe.

(HUB Date) 1618-1648 Thirty Years War (Ottoman Safavid War 1623-1639)

While this represents an ongoing wars of land-based empires, more importantly it represents conflict between schisms in Christianity and Islam. The Thirty Years War was a long lasting conflict between Catholics and Protestants while the Ottoman-Safavid War was a struggle between Sunni and Shi'a However, both religious conflicts mask a political struggle with European monarchs struggling to take influence away from Catholic Church and the Ottoman and Safavid royal families battling each other.

Describe the rise and expansion of the Ottoman Empire.

With the fall of the Mongol Khanate (kingdom) on the Arabian peninsula in the mid 1300s, the Ottoman royal family led the turkic nomads (Sunni Muslims) of Central Asia to come to dominate much of the Muslim world. Ottoman military success and expansion came from their command of gunpowder. By the mid 1500s, led by Suleiman the Magnificent, the Ottoman empire was the largest and most powerful land empire in Europe and the Middle East. The empire quickly expanded their control to the Balkans and North Africa. Often tension with the Safavid to their east would lead to conflict.

Describe the African diaspora as a result of the Atlantic Slave Trade.

With the forced migration of millions of Africans to the New World, African culture spread throughout the Americas, contributing to cultural synthesis. Various languages spoken by Africans were combined with European languages to create new languages or dialects. African traditions blended with those in the Americas, such as in the areas of storytelling and music. New syncretic religious beliefs also emerged such as Vodoun and Obeah.

Who was Zheng He and what was his significance?

Zheng He was a Chinese admiral who led seven exploratory expeditions (1405-1433) around the Indian Ocean. He traveled to Southeast Asia, India, Persian Gulf, Arabia and east African coast where he established tributary relationships. These voyages created significant technological and cultural transfers between regions, but also demonstrated China's ability to be a military, political and economic power in the Indian Ocean.