Unit 2 Without Blanks

Calpulli

*EMPTY*(Calpulli)

Indians

*EMPTY*(Indians)

Parliament

*EMPTY*(Parliament)

Charlemagne

Basic Definition "Charles the Great" was a Carolingian monarch in the line of Charles Martel.. He established a substantial Frankish/Germanic Christian Empire in France and Germany around 800. He was crowned the Holy Roman Emperor on December 25, 800

Henry the Navigator (IMPORTANT)

Basic Definition 1394-1460, Portuguese prince. First European royal to heavily promote discovery and exploration. Motivated by mercenary as well as missionary factors. Seeking to promote Portuguese economic interests (challenging Muslim monopoly of gold trade) and to further Christian influence. Hope to find the kingdom of Prince Henry promoted settlement of islands in the Atlantic and exploration of the African coast. Founded the school for navigators at Sagres at the southwestern tip of Portugal.

3 Field System

Basic Definition 3 Field system was developed in Western Europe in the 9th century. The farmland was divided into 3 equal fields. 2 fields were planted with a winter crop like wheat or rye a spring crop like peas, lentils or beans and 1 field was used as a grazing field for animals. This increased the production of the fields and kept the yield of food high.

Fujiwara

Basic Definition A Japanese aristocratic family in mid-9th century; exercised exceptional influence over imperial affairs; aided in decline of imperial power. They married into the imperial family and exert extreme control over the Imperial dynasty. The Fujiwara dominated the Japanese politics of Heian period (794-1185) through the monopoly of regent (advisor) positions.

Kuriltai

Basic Definition A Kuriltai is the meeting of all the Mongol tribal leaders. The most major and influential Kuriltai was in 1206 A.D. in the mountainous regions of Mongolia. The first Khagan was chosen at this Kuriltai, Temujin who came to be known as Genghis Khan. The Kuriltai consists of the Khans of Mongol tribal groups, and when a group does not show up their vote is not counted. The Kuriltai are used to elect Khagans, or Great Khans at or near Karakorum.

Bakufu

Basic Definition A Military government established by the Minamoto family following the Gempei wars. (it literally means TENT government as the military was in charge) One of the two powerful families in Japan. The Bakufu was started after five years of the Gempei Wars, in 1185, right after Taira House faction was destroyed. Led by Shoguns, it was centered in Kamakura on the Kanto plain.

Quetzalcoatl

Basic Definition A Toltec god around 1200 CE. The word "Quetzalcoatl" means "feathered serpent" Quetzalcoatl is the Aztec God of creation (he created the world with his opposite God, Tezcatlipoca), learning, science, agriculture, and the arts. The Toltecs of Central Mexico with legends of Topiltzin, a Toltec leader and priest dedicated to Quetzalcoatl. He was one of the most important gods in ancient Mesoamerica first worshiped in Teotihuacan.

Magna Carta

Basic Definition A great charter issued by King John (he was forced to sign it by the aristocracy) of England in 1215 A.D. It confirmed feudal rights against monarchical (Kings) claims. Represented principle of mutual limits and obligations between rulers and feudal aristocracy.The Magna Carta was signed on the plain at Runnymede in 1215 A.D.

Mita

Basic Definition A labor tax system devised by the Inca government, and instituted around 1438 in which the people worked for the government for a certain period of time every year. This work would be whatever the government needed. (building roads, tambos, temples, bridges, etc...) The government took care of the family whose male members were absent while doing Mita.

Holy Roman Empire

Basic Definition A major political institution in Europe that lasted from the 9th to the 19th centuries. It was loosely organized and modeled somewhat on the ancient Roman Empire. It included great amounts of territory in the central and western parts of Europe. Charlemagne was its first emperor as he was crowned by the Pope. (It really wasn't very Roman or Holy and it was a loosely organized Empire but nonetheless it did combine the legacy of Rome and the Power of the Church with Germanic traditions)

Yangdi

Basic Definition A tyrannical emperor of the Sui Dynasty from 604 to 618, Yangdi murdered his father, Wendi, to get to the throne. During his reign he instituted harsh taxes and laws and sought to restore Confucian education and the examination system. He was overly fond of luxury and forced peasants to work on large construction projects, such as the completion of the Grand Canal. Following his assassination (live by the sword die by the sword), China was saved from political turmoil by Li Yuan and the start of the Tang Dynasty.

Yurt

Basic Definition A yurt is a circular tent made of felt or skin on a framework that is collapsible. Yurts were used by nomads in Mongolia, Siberia, and Turkey. Started to develop on the Asian steppes probably around 1,000 B.C. Yurts were used by the Mongols to conquer large expanses of land by allowing them to have mobile homes and move across large expanses of land with relative ease.

Gothic

Basic Definition An architectural style developed during the Middle Ages in western Europe; featured pointed arches and flying buttresses as external supports on main walls. When: during the Middle Ages in the 12th-16th centuries. Why: to show the power and grandeur of God and the religious power in the time period. Where: western Europe Who: Medieval Christians

Urban II

Basic Definition Around 1095 CE, Pope Urban II was the leader of the Western Church in Rome, originally from France. He began the Crusades by declaring "God wills it" and saying that whoever fights in the Crusades would receive a place in heaven, and that obviously caused many people to want to fight. The purpose of the Crusades was to capture the Holy Land (Jerusalem) which had been "taken" by the Turks, which ultimately didn't happen.

Belisarius

Basic Definition Belisarius (Greek: Βελισάριος) was a general of the Byzantine Empire under Emperor Justinian. He is often called the "Last of the Romans." He is most prevalent for defeating the Sassanid Persians. His sea expedition against the Vandal Kingdom, and his involvement in suppressing the 532 rebellion in Constantinople. (Nyca Riots) He was born in Germania (modern day Bulgaria) c. 505, living his life in the Byzantine Empire when not on military campaigns, and died Chalcedon c. 565, to later be buried in either the church of St. Paul or Peter.

Batu

Basic Definition Born in 1205 AD in Mongolia, Batu Khan, (grandson of Chinggis ((Genghis)) Khan), became the ruler of the Golden Horde Khanate following the death of his father in 1227 AD. The Mongol Empire was rapidly expanding, and the Russian states were next on the agenda to add to the ever-growing empire. From 1236 AD to 1241 AD, Batu led a Mongol force of 120,000+ cavalrymen into Russia, subsequently carrying out the only successful winter invasions in Russian history, and conquering Russia (and the adjoining territories of Eastern Europe) in the process.

Wendi

Basic Definition Born in 541, Wendi was the first ruler of the Chinese Sui dynasty, ruling from 581 until he's murdered by his son in 604. Wendi was responsible for conquering most historically Chinese land under the banner of his newfound Sui dynasty through military conquest using his powerful military forces, and, most notably, marrying his daughter off to a Northern Zhou prince, diplomatically and militarily annexing them. Wendi's son, Yangdi, would continue this conquest, but would be the last of the Sui. Wendi was also responsible for creating the First Grand Canal of China.

Boyars

Basic Definition Boyars are a higher class (Aristocracy)in Russia under Kievan princes . Boyars existed in the medieval Russia from 10th ad - 17th ad . They had begun in Kievan Rus which now is modern day Ukraine and Belarus . They were land owners (whose land was given from the kievan princes and being a landowner let them give it to peasants and get stuff from them in return). They had served the princes and had good government positions. They got their power through the military support of the Kievan prince so they had to provide a good military and the prince was loyal to them and gave them land and high positions in government. There was a constant battle for power between the Russian Rulers and their Boyars.

Cyril & Methodius

Basic Definition Brothers Cyril (827-869) and Methodius (826-885) were Orthodox Christian missionaries sent by the Byzantine government to the Balkans, southern Russia, and eastern Europe for the purpose of converting those there to Christianity. Cyril created the written script for slavic language known as Cyrillic. Cyril created this alphabet prior to his mission trips. He was detained from leaving the Byzantine empire because the churches believed that holy text should only be written in holy languages. After surrendering control of his mission to the pope in order to freely use this alphabet Cyril died before reaching Moravia, but his mission was carried on by his brother Methodius.

Cahokia

Basic Definition Cahokia is the largest earthen pyramid now called Monk's Mound. It was most populated between 1200 and 1500 C.E. Located near East St.Louis, Illinois, this mound covered 5 square miles. More than 30,000 people inhabited in and around this area. This land was agriculturally suited for maize and bean growth.

Karakorum

Basic Definition Capital of the Mongol Empire,under the rule of Chinggis Khan when it first thrived from 1162 to 1227 B.C. Karakorum was a town in Mongolia. It was known as the ancient capital of Mongolia. Genghis Khan rallied his troops for the campaign against the Khwarezm Empire in Karakorum. After the defeat of the Jin empire, Genghis' successor, Ögedei was chosen at a kurultai in Karakorum. The capital was moved to China (Bieging) in 1267, and the Chinese Ming eventually destroyed Karakorum in 1388.

Carloginian

Basic Definition Carolingian dynasty, family of Frankish aristocrats and the dynasty (ad 750-887) that they established to rule western Europe. The name derives from the large number of family members who bore the name Charles, most notably Charlemagne. One of the founders, Charles Martel, was responsible for defeating the Muslims at the battle of Tour in 732, which confined the Muslims to Spain and helped preserve Europe for Christianity. Later, Charlemagne created an empire (around 800) that he used to restore some church-based education and almost saw the rise of a new Roman Empire in the West but when he died, his empire did not withstand long without him.

Kongo

Basic Definition Central African state that began trading with the Portuguese around 1500; although their kings, such as King Affonso I (r. 1506-1543), converted to Christianity, they nevertheless suffered from the slave trade.

Charles Martel

Basic Definition Charles Martel was a Frankish Statesman (mayor of the palace) who became the ruler of the Franks becauses of his success at the Battle of Tours against Muslim invasion (732) where he gained the nickname "The Hammer." Some even consider him the Savior of Christianity in the West.

Chinampas

Basic Definition Chinampas, also known as floating gardens, were a type of agriculture used in Mesoamerica in Tenochtitlan (the valley of Mexico). They were small rectangular pieces of land that floated in shallow water. This type of Agriculture was used by the Aztecs. Chinampas were used as early as 1100 AD. The chinampas worked because the lakes provided moisture and decomposing nutrients that fertilized the crops on the Chinampas. Crops grown were maize and squash.

Romance of the West Chamber

Basic Definition Chinese novel that was set in the Tang Dynasty but written during the (Mongol) Yuan Period; indicative of the continued literary vitality of China during Mongol rule. It surprised audiences and received praise from young people after it was performed on the stage. It was created based on the rich artistic experience of Wang Shifu, who wrote numerous dramas. The language art of Romance of the West Chamber is not only rich and colorful, but also is full of literary grace.

100 Years War

Basic Definition Conflict between England and France from 1337-1453; fought over lands England possessed in France and feudal rights versus the emerging claims of national states. Who: Edward lll started the 100 years war when the french king Charles lV died. Why: It started because Edward the lll wanted to become France's new king. How: The war starts off with several stunning successes on Britain's part and the English forces dominate France for decades.When: The 100 years war start in 1337 and ended in 1453.

Daimyos

Basic Definition Daimyos were feudal warlords who were subordinate and loyal to the shoguns until the shogunate self- destructed in the capital. Japan divided into around 300 individual Kingdoms after the shogunate was destroyed and the Daimyos kept amassing land and power as they controlled the Samurai under their leadership.

Taira/Minamoto

Basic Definition During the 11th and 12th century the two most powerful families in Japan : Taira and Minamoto started to feud while competing to have the upper hand in gaining control of the emperor and dominating the court. For some time the Taira had the upper hand in controlling the emperor and dominating the court. But the rivalry turned into open warfare in the early 1180s. But because the Tairas' concentration of their power-grabbing efforts in the capital led to the breakdown of critical links with some rural notables, who often sided with Minamoto in factional struggles.

Split Inheritance

Basic Definition During the Inca Empire, which was founded in 1438 AD, split inheritance was used for succession between rulers. When a ruler died, his political power and titles transferred, but the new ruler had to accumulate his own wealth and even build his own palace. The possessions of the dead ruler would remain in his possession under the responsibility of a son who did not get his title and be used in the worship of his spirit.

Junks (Important)

Basic Definition During the Postclassical Period, the best ships in the world were called Junks. Junks are from China and they were equipped with watertight bulkheads. Sternpost rudders, sails, compasses, bamboo fenders, and gunpowder-propelled rockets for protection. Junks were dominant from the Song Dynasty in the 10th century through the Ming when they stopped the expeditions of Zheng He in 1431 These ships were primarily used for trading but not in the traditional sense of trade but more like cultural reconnaissance. (Japan and southeastern Asia, and even all the way to Arabia and Africa.

Sinification (Important)

Basic Definition Extensive adaptation of Chinese culture in other regions; typical of Korea and Japan, less typical of Vietnam. This happens from the Han Dynasty onward. 3rd Century BC. It intensifies in the 7th-12th centuries AD. This means that Chinese Confucianism, centralized bureaucracy, and technological innovations are adopted throughout the Chinese sphere of influence in East and SE Asia.

Flying Money

Basic Definition Flying money was used by merchants in the Tang and Song dynasty (618-1279) in China. They were credits that they received in the form of a piece of paper in their hometown. When they arrived at the city where they were selling their goods, they could turn it in there and then be payed at that town. They used this because paper money had not been adopted yet, and the copper coins that were used were too bulky to carry. This also reduced robbery along trade routes because they weren't carrying actually money.

Li Yuan

Basic Definition Following the assassination of Yangdi and the fall of the Sui Dynasty, Li Yuan (one of Yangdi's officials) was the founding emperor of the Tang dynasty and ruled from 618-626 AD. He concentrated on uniting and extending the empire under Tang rule and laid the basis for the golden age of the Tang dynasty. He took away the harsh law system begun by Yangdi, and emulated some of Wendi's successful policies such as equal distribution of land and lower taxes.

Petrarch

Basic Definition Francesco Petrarca is commonly known as Petrarch. (1304-1374) Petrarch lived in time of the Renaissance in Italy. He was considered the founder of humanism. He is a model for what would become the overriding philosophical approach that would dominate the Renaissance. Petrarch's sonnets were admired throughout Europe during the Renaissance and became a model for lyrical poetry.

Ashikaga Shogunate

Basic Definition From the 12th century onward, Japanese History was increasingly dominated by civil wars between shifting factions of the court aristocracy (Feudalism) and local warlords, which resulted in the Ashikaga Shogunate dynasty in the 14 century. Open feuding between a particular branch of the Minamoto and the rest of the Minamoto, resulted in the rule of the family being overthrown and Ashikaga Takauji, the head of the revolting branch, established the Ashikaga Shogunate.

Golden Horde

Basic Definition Golden Horde was one of the 4 major khanates (13th -14th century) that made up the Mongol Empire. Golden Horde was located in the western part of the Mongol Empire. At Golden Horde's peak the territory extended from the Carpathian Mountains in eastern Europe to the steppes of Siberia. On the south the Horde's lands bordered on the Black Sea, the Caucasus Mountains. Ruled over Russia indirectly as a tributary state.

Great Zimbabwe

Basic Definition Great Zimbabwe was a Bantu confederation of Shona-speaking peoples located between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers. It was developed after the 9th century AD and featured royal courts built of stone. It created a centralized state by the 15th century. Great Zimbabwe was a central trading location in Southern Africa that led to the coast.

Greek Fire

Basic Definition Greek fire was a weapon used by the Byzantine Empire. It was a liquid that supposedly would ignite on contact with water, and would continue to float and burn on water. It was developed c. AD 672. It was usually used by being sprayed out of a pressurized nozzle called a siphōn and was often used in naval battles, though sometimes it was stored in small jars and thrown. It was used to protect Constantinople from the sieges of the Arabs.

Griots

Basic Definition Griots were professional historians, or storytellers in Western Africa. (1235 AD) , which is about the time of the rule of Sundiata the "Lion Prince"of Mali. To communicate their stories they often sang them or set them to a beat. They also served as keepers of traditions and advisors of kings. They were essential to the passing down of stories and histories because the ability to read and write was rare.

Guilds

Basic Definition Guilds, which flourished in Western Europe between the 11th and 16th centuries, were groups of people who were in the same business and trade in the same city. There were two types of guilds:merchant and artisan. Merchant guilds were made up of the merchants in a city and artisan guilds were made up of the artisans and craftsmen of the city. The appearance and growth of towns after the Dark Ages aided in the development of guilds.

Hagia Sophia

Basic Definition Hagia Sophia was a Greek Orthodox church in Constantinople. It was built in about 537 AD by Emperor Justinian. It was a marvel of ancient architecture as in combined a square building with a domed ceiling symbolizing the unity of the political and the religious. In 1453 it was conquered by the Ottoman Turks led by Muslim Sultan Mehmed II. At that point the minarets were added and it became a mosque.

Hangzhou

Basic Definition Hangzhou was the capital of the Later Song dynasty (1127-1279). Located near the East China Sea and the Yangtze, it was a good center of trade for people within China, and people coming from overseas. The population exceeded 1 million people. It is the modern day capital of the Zhejiang province. The Grand Canal runs between Beijing and Hangzhou.

William the Conqueror

Basic Definition He was a Norseman ie.. a North man ie.. a Viking. He was first known as The Duke of Normandy before he invaded England on Christmas Day 1066. William the Conqueror introduced the feudal monarchy in England. He had already built a strong feudal domain in the French province of Normandy. He was crowned king of England when he fought Harold at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Moldboard

Basic Definition Heavy plow with a curved metal blade introduced in northern Europe during the Middle Ages; capable of deeper cultivation of heavier soils. It was used in the manors of feudal Europe as a way to effectively deal with the difficult soil found in the north and as a way to create more arable land in order to increase the food supply for a growing population in the later middle ages.

Taika Reforms (Important)

Basic Definition In 646, during the Taika Period in Japan, Kamatari and Prince Naka-no-Oe (who will be known as Emperor Tenji) attempted to make the Japanese monarch an absolute Chinese bureaucracy. They took series of codifications that were based on the Chinese central government and tried to put them into place. The Taika Reforms' goal was to create an absolute Chinese bureaucracy... in the sense, that Japan was never completely a bureaucracy and reduce the power of the landed aristocracy. Ultimately they are not fully implemented and Japan lapses into Feudalism.

Chabi (IMPORTANT)

Basic Definition Influential wife of Kubilai Khan; promoted interests of Buddhism in China; indicative of refusal of Mongol women to adopt restrictive social conventions of Chinese. Chabi was one of Kubilai Khan's most important confidants on political and diplomatic matters, and she promoted Buddhist interests in the highest circles of government in opposition to Confucian values. Lived in the 13th century Yuan Dynasty.

Jinshi (Important)

Basic Definition Jinshi was a title granted to students who passed a difficult examination given by the Tang (618-907 CE) and Song (960-1279 CE) governments on Chinese literature. After they passed the examination, they became eligible for top government positions, were given the position of dignitary, and had access to the privilege and comforts of China's elite.

Ju Yuanzhang/Hongwu

Basic Definition Ju Yuanzhang was from a poor peasant family in China during 1328-1398 bc. He founded the Ming (Brilliant) dynasty, which ruled China for most of the next three centuries. Ju Yuanzhang established the capital in Nanjing and then took control of the Yangtze River. He lead a successful revolution against the Mongol Yuan. Ju emerged as a leader of the White Lotus movement (Buddhist) and wore Red Turbans and was a defender of Confucianism even though he came from Buddhist roots. As emperor his name was Taizu or Hungwu.

Tale of Genji (Important)

Basic Definition Just after 1000 ad in Japan, a women by the name of Murasaki Shikibu (Lady Murasaki) wrote one of the first novels ever written in Japan. The Tale was written in 54 separate books. In these books, they created a society consisting of aristocrats that were very uninterested in anything other than their own pleasures. Because they were not interested in much else than their own desires, it created a sensitivity to the finer things in their life. In the Tale of Genji, Genji's (heir to the throne) life is mostly devoted to having aesthetic enjoyment, either in affairs with beautiful women or in musical entertainments in a garden scented with blooming flowers.

Khanates (IMPORTANT)

Basic Definition Khanates are political divisions within the Mongol empire after the rule of Genghis Khan (1206-1227). There were four major Khanates after the fall of the Mongol Empire: the Golden Horde, the Yuan Dynasty, the Chagatai Khanate, and the Ilkhanate. They covered territory from East Asia to Europe.

Kiev

Basic Definition Kiev was a trade city in southern Russia established by Scandinavian traders in the 9th century. It became a focal point for the kingdom of Russia that flourished until the 12th century. The first prince was Rurik, a native of Denmark. From about 855 CE on, Kiev was commonly called Kievan Rus'. (this is where Vladimir the Great and Yaroslav the Wise were located)

Kublai Khan (IMPORTANT)

Basic Definition Kublai Khan was a grandson of Chinggis Khan and was born in 1215 AD. In 1260 he assumed the title of the great khan (Khagan) . He was the commander of the Mongol forces responsible for conquest of China. Later, he changed his name to Yuan and established the Yuan Dynasty in China. He ruled over China essentially as a Chinese Emperor. His power became apparent that he even communicated with the Pope in Rome (via Marco Polo) according to legend.

Yaroslav

Basic Definition Last of great (Russian) Kievan monarchs (Grand princes) ; he issued legal codification based on formal codes developed in Byzantium. (978-1054) He was one of the many sons of Vladimir the Great and he helped to further bring Orthodox Christianity to Kievan Russia.

Marco Polo

Basic Definition Marco Polo was a Venetian (that means he was from Venice Italy) merchant traveller. He lived from 1254 through 1324. He travelled through Asia and met Kublai Khan in China. He travelled from Europe to Asia. Marco was the first European to leave a detailed chronicle of his experience in East Asia. Some view this whole story as legendary and not historical but it is fun either way.

Vassals

Basic Definition Members of the military elite who received land or a benefice from a feudal lord in return for military service and loyalty from the 6th century onward in Western Europe. Greater lords provided protection and aid to lesser lords, who in turn owed their lords military service, some goods or payments, and advice.

Samurai

Basic Definition Mounted troops of Japanese warrior leaders; loyal to local lords (and the Bushi.. Leaders of the Samurai), not the emperor. Which shows the weakening Imperial family at the end of the Heian period. The warriors of premodern Japan. They later made up the ruling military class that eventually became the highest ranking social caste. They began as provincial warriors before rising to power in the 12th century with the beginnings of the country's first military dictatorship.

Neo-Confucianism

Basic Definition Neo-confucianism is the revival of Confucianism during the Song Era in China. A Chinese philosopher named Zhu Xi (1130-1200) was responsible for reviving Confucianism in China. They believed that historical experiences was the best guide for navigating the uncertain terrain of the future. The ways of the past (Han Dynasty) were the way to a better future. It can always be tied to the use of the civil service examination system which is based on Confucian texts.

Gregory VII

Basic Definition Pope during the 11th century who attempted to free church from interference of feudal lords; quarreled with Roman Emperor Henry IV over practice of lay investiture. He insisted upon the particular holy character of the priesthood. He, along with the rest of the reformers, stipulated that all priests remain unmarried, to separate the priesthood from the ordinary world of the flesh. He also was very adamant about freeing the church from any trace of state control. He effectively won his point by excommunicating the Roman Emperor Henry IV from the church and made him beg for forgiveness, Like you will if you miss this definition.

Investiture

Basic Definition Practice of state appointment of bishops. From 1073-1085 Pope Gregory VII argued with the Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV for his right to appoint church officials. This lead to a war between Pope Gregory VII and King Henry IV which was called the Concordat of Worms. Gregory eventually won his point and Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV begged for forgiveness on his knees in the snow. The Church had been corrupted by politically appointed clergy who were first loyal to the kings of Europe instead of the Popes.

Prestor John

Basic Definition Prester John was a Mythical Christian patriarch and a king in European chronicles and tradition from the 12th through the 17th century. He was thought to rule over a Christian nation lost amid the Muslims and pagans of the East. Prester John was imagined to reside in India. Prester John was the centre of a number of legends that harked back to the writings of "John the Elder" in the New Testament.

Empress Wu (Important)

Basic Definition Ruler during the Tang dynasty 690-705 c.e. In China. She supported the Buddhist (wait a minute did you say she...) establishment and strived to make it a state religion. She also commissioned Buddhist paintings and sculptures and even had huge statues built of Buddha that were cast in bronze. The first and only Chinese Empress.

Rurik

Basic Definition Rurik was a legendary Scandinavian, regarded as founder of the first kingdom of Russia (Rurik Dynasty) in Kiev in 855 C.E.. He reigned as a prince over the Rurik Dynasty from 862-879 C.E..

Vikings

Basic Definition Seagoing Scandinavian raiders from Sweden, Denmark, and Norway who disrupted coastal areas of Western Europe from the 8th to the 11th centuries.The name 'Viking' comes from a language called 'Old Norse' and means 'a pirate raid.' The Vikings also engaged in trade and exploration in Northern Europe and even had a brief, small colony in the Americas.

Seppuku

Basic Definition Seppuku was common by Samurai warriors in Japan starting in the 12th century feudal Japan. When a warrior was defeated, he would commit suicide to restore honor to his family and to avoid being captured and tortured. This eventually became more like a ritual and public event people watched than something that happened on the battlefield. It was also used as a punishment. It is known in the the west as Hara-Kiri, or belly splitting.

Serf

Basic Definition Serfs are agricultural workers in Western Europe during the Middle Ages (476-1453) under the Feudal System. They work for Lords under the feudal system. They owned no land and they could not leave the Manor without their Lord's permission. There was essentially a contract between lords and serfs in the manorial system. The serfs provided labor and food in exchange the lord would provide protection and a share of the food produced on the manor.

Sharia

Basic Definition Sharia, an Arabic word meaning "the right path," refers to traditional Islamic law. It started with the teachings of Muhammad (622) as the Islamic empire expanded to the edge of North Africa in the West and to China in the East and continuing to today. Sharia is religious law governing muslims. It developed under the early caliphs as there were attempts to extend it to more aspects of life. (instrumental in the 9th century onward)

Benin

Basic Definition Small highly centralized Powerful city-state (located near present day Nigeria) which came into contact with the Portuguese in 1485 but remained relatively free of European influence; important commercial and political entity until the 19th century. It is located in West Africa. The ruler who founded Benin as a kingdom's name was Ogiso.

Song

Basic Definition Song Dynasty which was one of the most glorious cultural eras in Chinese History. The Song Dynasty existed from 960-1279 and the Southern Song Dynasty existed from 1127-1279. The Song dynasty was destroyed by the Jin in 1127 but the ruling family escaped and continued to Rule in the South for another 150 years. These folks had a glorious golden age but showed a lack of ability to protect the northern frontiers from invasion resulting in the need retreat to the south.

Songhay

Basic Definition Songhay was an empire that dominated the middle areas of the Niger Valley. It was made up of "masters of the soil" which is farmers and herders and "masters of the waters" fishers. It was a successor state to Mali. It began to form around the 7th century as an independent kingdom under a Berber dynasty. It established a capital at Gao by 1010 and by the 1370s Songay had developed its independence and began to thrive from new sources of gold from the west. (Flourished around 1500)

Scholasticism

Basic Definition Starting after the 13th century, scholasticism was the dominant medieval philosophical approach (Christian thinkers) used logic to solve theological problems and this approach was taught at schools and universities in medieval Europe. It helped Support Christian belief with the reason and logic of the Greek philosophers by spreading its learning ideas. It was a blending of Greek and Roman thought with the Christian World view. Usually associated with thinkers like Thomas Aquinas.

Stateless Societies

Basic Definition Stateless Societies were African societies organized around kinship or other forms of obligation and lacking the concentration of political power and authority associated with states (governments). The Societies had a form of government, but the authority and power normally exercised by a ruler and his court in a kingdom could be held by a council of families or by the community. (600 ad-1450 ad)

Ogedei

Basic Definition Subsequent to the death of his father, Ogedei Khan (1186 AD - 1241 AD), the third son of Genghis Khan, was elected as Grand Khan of Mongolia in 1229 AD. (at a Kurultai) Though he was not as capable of a military leader as his brothers or nephews, he was a crafty diplomat and deft at manipulation. During his lifetime, he established political stability throughout Asia and re-established the Silk Road (upon which Marco Polo would later traverse). Under his rule, the east and the west became more connected than ever before.

Ming

Basic Definition Succeeded Mongol Yuan dynasty in China in 1368-1644. Was established when Zhu Yuanzhang claimed the mandate of heaven. The last Yuan emperor fled north to Shangdu, and Zhu declared the founding of the Ming Dynasty after razing the Yuan palaces in Dadu to the ground. The Ming dynasty mounted huge trade expeditions to southern asia and elsewhere and later concentrated efforts on internal development within China. The Great Wall of China was rebuilt in this dynasty to ward off another wave of Huns.

Sundiata

Basic Definition Sundiata Keita was born in AD 1190 in Niani on the coast of Southwestern Africa and died around AD 1260.. He was one of twelve sons of a Mandinka warrior and a member of the Keita clan. He was the leader of the Mali Empire and accomplished many things throughout his reign. ( He created a unified state that became the Mali empire) Sundiata destroyed Samanguru's army in the Battle of Kirina in 1235 after Samanguru killed his siblings. During his reign, griots (professional oral historians or keepers of traditions) began their epic histories with Sundiata. He was considered the originator of social arrangements which later spread the ancient Ghana. He later converted to Islam but only for the convenience of merchants and traders. Sundiata had many successors reign after him including Mansa Kankan Musa (1312-1337).

Tambos

Basic Definition Tambos were inns, storehouses, and supply centers for the Inca armies and messengers along the VAST ROAD SYSTEM that united their empire. The Inca empire was established in 1438. Tambos were located near or along many of the roads the Incas built for conquering people. Tambos were also places for messengers to relay their messages. The Inca civilization had over 10,000 tambos throughout their road systems.

Tatars

Basic Definition Tatar was a name that the Russians gave to the Mongols and the Turkic people that the Mongols conquered. The Mongols captured major Russian cities such as Kolomna, Moscow, and Kievan state in 13th century. The Mongols then forced all the Russian states that they conquered to become a part of the tributary state known as the Golden Horde Empire which was the western part of the Mongol Empire.

Tenochtitlan

Basic Definition Tenochtitlan was an Aztec city state located on an island in Lake Texcoco. Founded in 1325, it became the capital of the expanding Aztec Empire in the 15th century until it was captured by the Spanish in 1521. Tenochtitlan joined with Tlacopan and Texcoco in 1434 to form a triple alliance that controlled most of the central plateau of mesoamerica. At its peak, it was the largest city in pre-Columbian America ( between 200-300 thousand people). In Tenochtitlan Chinampas (4:07)were major sources of food for the Aztecian people. (present day Mexico City)

Battle of Kulikovo

Basic Definition The Battle of Kulikovo was on September 8, 1380.Located at the Kulikovo field in Russia. The war between Russian principalities Led by Muscovy, and the Golden Horde ended in the Russian armies victory over the Golden Horde. Fought because Russia was tired of Mongol rule over them. THE BIRTH OF THE RUSSIAN STATE centered in Moscow.

Gempei Wars

Basic Definition The Gempei Wars were a series of clan wars between the Taira and Minamoto clans in Japan that ushered in the Feudal period in Japan. It lasted from 1180 - 1185 .The Taira clan was defeated by the Minamoto clan in 1160 and formed the Kamakura Shogunate which dominated the government . The leader of the Minamoto empire at the time was Yoshitomo. His son Yoritomo decided to move to the capital of Kyōto.

Grand Canal (Important)

Basic Definition The Grand Canal was built circa 605 ad. The canal begins in Beijing and ends in Hangzhou. This was the first Grand Canal system of China and made a link from the Huang He (Yellow) to the Yangtze. The second emperor of the Sui dynasty, Yangdi, risked his throne to have it built. This canal was built to link the original centers of Chinese civilization (North China Plain) with the Yangtze River basin. It also is the longest canal in the world with more than 500 miles going south.

Hanseatic League

Basic Definition The Hanseatic League is a confederation of merchant guilds and banks, and encouraged trade. They created their own trade laws and regulations. They lasted from the late middle ages to the beginning of the modern period and they lived in northern Germany and southern Scandinavia. Some of the people in these guilds were Jewish and the trade took place in and around the Baltic Sea. This was a sign that trade was starting again as the Middle Ages were ending.

Khagan

Basic Definition The Khagan is supreme leader of the Mongol tribes and eventually the empire. The Khagan was elected by Mongol tribal leaders in a meeting known as a Kuriltai in 1206 A.D. This meeting occurred in the mountains of Mongolia (Karakorum). The first Khagan was Temujin, who came to be known as Chinggis or Genghis Khan. Chinggis Khan conquered much of the post-classical world with the support of the Mongol tribes that elected him to leader.

Khmers

Basic Definition The Khmers were an ethnic group of southeast Asia, specifically the Red River Area of modern day Cambodia, who were predominantly hunter-gatherers up to this point. . They existed from 220 C.E. onward until today. Around the beginning of the 2nd century, the Han dynasty captured the kingdom of b, and began trying to incorporate the Vietnamese into their culture. This included willingness to intermarry with the Khmers. (Later in the year we will talk about Pol Pot and Khmer Rouge, remember these folks when we do)

Renaissance

Basic Definition The Renaissance was a cultural and political movement in Western Europe in the 14th-17th centuries with more secular priorities than previous ages. Many famous artists, writers, architects arose in this time period including Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, Machiavelli et all. The Renaissance began when Italian scholars, scientists and artists creating a cultural movement based on a return to classical (Greek and Roman) Humanism and combining the Classic World with the Christian world and creating the most significant golden age in Europe's history since the Pax Romana.

Yang Guifei

Basic Definition The Royal concubine during reign of Xuanzong from 737-756. One of the four beauties of ancient China. Had one of the most famous and ill-fated relationships in Chinese history with Xuanzong. She used her power to pack the upper levels of government with her greedy relatives. They and Yang assumed an even greater role in court politics. The arrogance and excessive ambition of her family angered members of the rival cliques at court, who took every opportunity to turn Yang's excesses into a cause for political unrest.

Russian Orthodox

Basic Definition The Russian Orthodox is a Russian form of Christianity that was imported from the Byzantine Empire in the 11th Century AD. It was combined with the local religion by Prince Vladimir I through mass baptisms, forced conversions by military forces, and the recruiting of Byzantine Patriarchs to instruct new Patriarchs for Russian Orthodox Churches.

Toltec Culture

Basic Definition The Toltec created an empire, from about the 10th-12th century AD, covering much of central Mexico. The following is an example of the spread of influence: the capital Tula influenced distant Guatemala. The Toltec influence later spread north. Toltec influence was dominant for a long time in the valley of Mexico and influenced Meso-American Cultures beyond it's borders and were the predecessors of the Aztec culture.

Trung Sisters (Important)

Basic Definition The Trung Sisters were the leaders of a Vietnamese Buddhist uprising against the Chinese. The Vietnamese people rebelled against the Chinese because the Chinese failed to assimilate Vietnamese culture. They lead an uprising in 39 AD and ruled until 43 AD when they died during battle.

White Lotus Society (IMPORTANT)

Basic Definition The White Lotus Society was a religious group of Northern Chinese peasants that arose in the 1350's and was lead by Buddhist monk Zhu Yuanzhang to get rid of the oppressive Mongol rule of the Yuan dynasty in China and was driven underground by the Mongols who made the group illegal to be part of. This movement (Red Turban Rebellion)eventually succeeds in overthrowing the Yuan.

Middle Ages

Basic Definition The post classical period beginning with the fall of the Roman Empire (476 AD) until the 15th century (Renaissance). This time involved the recovery of societies from the collapse of the Roman Empire going to feudalism and decreased interaction between societies in the Mediterranean. Thomas Aquinas worked to blend rational knowledge and Christian faith during this time. Aka the Dark ages as Europe was struggling to find an identity as it was constantly dealing with invasion and struggle. Christianity centered in Rome and the feudal system were its only continuities

Pachacuti

Basic Definition The ruler of Inca society, in modern day Peru, from 1438-1471. He transformed the Kingdom of Cuzco into the Inca Empire. He conquered various peoples in what is now considered southern Peru and extended his power to the north in Ecuador. The name Pachacuti, which he gave himself as he rose to power, can be translated to 'Reverser of the World' or 'Earth Shaker'.

Shoguns

Basic Definition The shoguns are the military leaders of the bakufu that evolve into what became a hereditary dictatorship of sorts in Japan from 1185 onward. They were appointed by the emperor in a ceremonial formality and ruled based on the strength and loyalty of the Daimyos and the Samurai under their control.

Paizi/Yam

Basic Definition These are 2 different Mongol innovations that made it possible for them to traverse and control their massive Eurasian Empire. From the 13th-15th Century. Yam- Relay stations were used to give food, shelter and spare horses for Mongol army messengers. Genghis Khan gave special attention to Yam because Mongol armies traveled very fast, so their messengers had to be even faster, covering 200-300 km per day. The system was used to speed up the process of information and intelligence. Paizi-was a tablet (passport) carried by Mongol officials and envoys to signify certain privileges and authority. They enabled Mongol nobles and officials to demand goods and services from civilian populations

3 estates

Basic Definition This was a system of dividing French citizens of society into different groups and was popular before the French Revolution (1789). 1st estate is the Clergy who ran the Church. The 2nd estate is the Nobility who are the landowning aristocracy that doesn't have to pay taxes. The 3rd estate were the commoners/peasants who made up most of the population. The king was above all the estates.

Thomas Aquinas

Basic Definition Thomas Aquinas was an Italian monk and a religious scholar at the University of Paris and one of the most brilliant minds in European history living from 1225-1274 AD. He was born to a noble family in Italy. He came into contact with Roman texts in the University of Naples He worked to blend rational knowledge (science) and Christian faith and he created nearly 200 Christian theologies in less than three decades. After his death he was declared the saint of teachers by the Roman Catholic Church. He believed that the world could be usefully explored through reason and not just faith and that most things could be discovered through nature without the intervention of God.

Timbuktu

Basic Definition Timbuktu was a major port city of commercial exchange, located in Mali, 8 miles off the floodplain of the Nile. It was founded by Kel Tamasheq in the 1400's, with a population of roughly 50,000 people. Known as the center of learning in Mali, Timbuktu created some of the best Muslim scholars in history. By the 14th Century its 'Great Sankore mosque' contained a library with an associated library.

Tumens

Basic Definition Tumens were the basic fighting units of the Mongols. All the units in the Tumens were on horses allowing for faster travel. In each Tumen there were 10,000 cavalry which then were subdivided into groups of 1,000 then even more divided into groups of 100 and divided even smaller into groups of 10's. Each group had a specific task such as heavy cavalry, light cavalry, and scouts. There were even secret groups such as spies who were responsible for mapping areas the mongols were going to invade, as well as a messenger group who would ride for days to transfer messages between Tumens.

Vivaldis

Basic Definition Vandino and Ugolino Vivaldi were Genoese brothers who attempted to find a Western route to the "Indies", the spice producing areas of south and southeast Asia as to form a better trade connection. They sailed from Genoa through the Straits of Gibraltar with the intention of reaching India by sea in ten years. After their departure in 1291, they were never heard from again.

Vasco de Gama

Basic Definition Vasco da Gama was a Portuguese explorer and was the first European to get to India by the sea around the Cap of Good Hope. His initial voyage to India (1497-1499) was the first to link Europe and then Asia by an ocean route, connecting the Atlantic and the Indian oceans. Vasco discovered the route to India was significant and opened the way for an age of global imperialism and for the Portuguese to establish a long-lasting empire in Asia.

Vladimir I

Basic Definition Vladimir The Great was the Prince of the Russian Principality of Kiev. Vladimir Ruled from 980-1015. He organized mass baptisms for his subjects, forcing them by military pressure. By doing this, he converted his entire Principality to Orthodox Christianity.

Waru Waru

Basic Definition Waru Waru was an agricultural technique that used raised beds with irrigation channels to prevent soil from being washed away during floods. It was used by pre-Columbian South America, (Inca) from Colombia to Bolivia about 300 B.C. It was used because of the massive down pours that often occurred in the region. It was needed to produce enough food for a growing Inca population.

Ministry of Rites

Basic Definition Who: A group of distinguished scholars that administered examinations to students from chinese government schools What: one of the three Departments and Six Ministries which helped progress the culture and education of tang and song dynasty. When: During the tang dynasty (618-907), and the Song dynasty (1127-1279). Where: present day China( see maps to the left) Why:To train and educate officials in the Confucian classics, which taught moral and organizational principles. How: People had to pass exams in order to gain high office, for example the people who passed the Chinese literature earned the title of Jinshi.

Xuanzong

Basic Definition Xuanzong is the seventh emperor of the Tang Dynasty. He ruled over China from 713-756 AD. He made the Tang dynasty reach its highest point in Chinese History. He devoted himself to patronizing the arts and enjoying the pleasure of music. He became infatuated with Yang Guifei after the death of his second wife. Many of the most important cultural and scientific advancements China is famous for were made during Xuanzong's reign.

Zen Buddhism

Basic Definition Zen Buddhism is a school of the Mahayana form of Buddhism that was developed during the Tang Dynasty in China by prominent patriarchal monk figures such as Bodhidharma. (around 765 C.E.) Zen is deeply rooted in the Mahayana style of Buddhism but it enforces a more rigorous lifestyle/adherence for its followers, with an extreme emphasis on meditation. Zen also takes a significant influence from Taoism in its concepts of harmony with nature. Zen also spread to Japan where it further developed into what is known as Japanese Zen.

Manorialism

Basic Definition A system that described economic and political relationships between landlords and their peasant laborers during the middle ages in Western Europe from the ( 8th century ) on through the next several hundred years. This economic system in Europe was a result of the dangerous and feudal society that people lived in with threat of invasion that disrupted trade during the dark ages.

Black Death

Basic Definition The Black Death originated in China or Central Asia and was spread to Europe by fleas and rats that resided on ships; it was also spread along the Silk Road. This resulted in the deaths of an estimated 75 to 200 million people during Europe's years of 1346-1353. The Black Death began in fleas which rode on the backs of rats. The rats were the ultimate transmitters as the fleas infested the human population. Centuries after its occurrence, the disease. was named the "Black Death." There were three different strains of the plague: Bubonic plague, Pneumonic Plague and Septicemic Plague. 1/3rd of the population died)

Berke

Basic Definition Berke Khan was a ruler of the Golden Horde who converted to Islam. He succeeded his brother Batu Khan and was responsible for the first official establishment of Islam in a khanate of the Mongol Empire. Started the first major Mongolian civil war against his cousin Hulagu which marked the end of Mongol unity and which broke into four kingdoms, including the Golden Horde, located in Eastern Europe, which he ruled from 1257 to 1266.

Clovis

Basic Definition Clovis was the king of the Franks who converted to Christianity in 496 Ad. He became the first king over the entirety of the Frankish tribes. He is considered the founder of "France" and known for military brilliance. He is known to start the Merovingian dynasty.

Foot-Binding (Important)

Basic Definition Foot binding began mostly at 4-6 years of age forcing the big toe to touch the heel in an arch shape. It was considered a mark of beauty and to have small feet meant you had potential as a wife. It is thought to have originated around tenth and eleventh century China and was made popular in the Song dynasty. This tradition required a great deal of pain for what was beauty of their time.

Ibn Battuta

Basic Definition Ibn Batuta was a Moroccan Muslim traveler. He began his travels in 1325 AD and returned home in 1355 AD. During this time he traveled to many different regions which include North and West Africa, Southern and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Central and Southeast Asia and China. He chose to travel to many areas to explore and record the different cultures and societies he ran into in his travel records. He would usually join a caravan (group of people traveling together) to get around safely.

Muhammad the Great

Basic Definition Muhammad The Great, also known as Askia Mohammad I, was an emperor, military commander, and political reformer of the Songhai Empire. He received his empire from Sunni Ali Ber and increased it's size to the biggest empire in West Africa's history. His policies caused trade to increase through his empire from Europe and Asia. He used universities and schools to help educate his people in real world ways and religious beliefs(Islam). His empire was a central point for learning, culture, and trade in Africa. He came to power by defeating the former ruler, Sunni Ali Ber's son. He officially became king in 1493. His reign lasted till 1528 when he was overthrown by his son, Askia Musa. Muhammad The Great is best known for his expansion of the Songhai empire and the culture, education, and trade he brought to Western Africa.

Temple of the Sun

Basic Definition The magnificent Temple of the Sun, also known as Coricancha, located in Cuzco was the center of the state religion (1438-1527), and in its confines the mummies of the past Incas were kept. The cult of the sun was spread throughout the empire, but the Incas did not prohibit the worship of local gods. In the Cuzco area, imaginary lines running from the Temple of the Sun organized the huacas into groups for which certain ayllus took responsibility. Sacrificial actions occurred here as animism was profound. Also, the rooms inside of the temple were seemingly designed to be used for natural worship for different elements of nature. Most of this temple was destroyed during Spanish invasion. (most Inca cities had a temple to the sun but the main one was in the capital city of Cuzco)

Pure Land Buddhism

Basic Definition The term "pure land" itself is referring to a heaven or paradise, called Sukhavati. Pure Land Buddhism is a strain of Mahayana Buddhism and was popular among Chinese society. Pure Land Buddhism differs from traditional Buddhism in that the central teaching of Pure Land Buddhism is that Nirvana is no longer practical or even possible to obtain in our present society. They teach instead that one should gain enough karmic merit to go to the "Pure Land", which is like a heaven or paradise. It differs from Nirvana in that it is an eternal destination rather than a place where all your karma disappears.

Timur-i Lang(Tamerlane) (IMPORTANT)

Basic Definition Tamerlane, or Timur the Lame", was the leader of a Turkish tribe that expanded after a series of conquests. Tamerlane was the leader of a nomadic people. He was a Turkic ruler in Samarkand. Timur-i Lang launched many attacks in Persia, the Fertile Crescent, India, and in southern Russia. The empire disintegrated after his death in 1405 bc. In the 14th century his armies killed over 5% of the entire population on the globe. He took over many countries in the Middle East. He killed many people to conquer more land and to increase his power.

Zheng He (IMPORTANT)

Basic Definition Zhenghe was a Chinese Muslim admiral who commanded a series of seven trade expeditions throughout the Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea under the third Ming emperor, Yunglo, between 1405 and 1433. Without overland Asian trade routes provided by the Mongol empire's, attention was turned to seaborne trade. He visited parts of Southeast Asia, India, the Horn of Africa, and Arabia. Zheng He brought gold, silver, porcelain, and silk to the places he visited and in return received animals like ostriches, zebras, and giraffes.

Swahili City-States

Basic Definition The Swahili City- States were established by the Bantu people in the 2nd century CE. They are "Islamicized" trading cities located on seaboard and offshore islands of Africa's Indian Ocean coast. Some major city states were Kilwa, and Sofala in the far south. These city states were founded by the Bantu people and inhabited by the Swahili people. The states were built to provide and connect African raw material to the rest of the Indian Ocean World.

Kongo

Significance 1. This is an example of a Sub-Saharan state that had a centralized monarchy that proved strong enough to withstand Portuguese control even if they are going to be influenced greatly and eventually controlled directly by the Portuguese. 2. The kingdom of Kongo only lasted until the late 19th century as an independent state before direct Portuguese control.

Tale of Genji (Important)

Significance 2 things here. This shows that absolute contradiction seen in the lives of the aristocracy as opposed to the rest of the people in Japan. It also shows a mini golden age of sorts... at least in the aristocracy of the Heian period. THIS IS A WOMAN writing this book. So we can at least say that elite women had modes of expression that were not available in most other cultures at the time. This type of disconnect between the elite ruling class might explain why feudalism breaks out in Japan.

Tambos

Significance 2 things here.. 1st is that the Andes Mountains of Peru are a pretty difficult terrain to create an empire in and the Inca Ruler needed a way to connect and control this vast region. These Tambos along the "roads" (trails) were a way to get messages and troops transmitted quickly to maintain control. 2nd is that they can easily be compared to the Persians and the Royal road that connected that vast empire in much the same way as well as to the Romans who built roads to connect their vast empire.

Henry the Navigator (IMPORTANT)

Significance A BIG effect (and this really is big) is that under his patronage, Portuguese maritime technology (that is shipbuilding, maps, compasses etc..) is going to make great strides and Portugal is going to start the European THRUST into the rest of the world that will result in Iberian (that is the Spanish Peninsula Lilly) ie.. Portuguese and Spanish dominance around the Worlds Oceans. Signifies the European desire to to expand and to get around the Muslim middle man (Ottoman Empire) results in Colonization in Africa and eventually in East and SE Asia and then the Americas.

Vassals

Significance After Rome's fall there was no central government and no security in Europe. People turned by default to feudalism. The Vassal is the key ingredient in this system as they were the connecting piece that held it together. (Land to the Vassals in exchange for the King having their loyalty and access to their Knights if needed to protect against invasion) These Vassals are going to begin to lose power in Europe as the Dark ages end. They are going to loose power to the increasing power of a Central monarch which is going to give rise to the Absolute monarch and the divine right of Kings. (this can also be seen later in Russia)

Khanates (IMPORTANT)

Significance After the death of Mongke Khan, there was no successor to the Mongol Empire so it then spilt into the major khanates through much civil war and conflict that ultimately led to the decentralization of Mongol Power. It results in the Mongols slowly assimilating into the culture that they are ruling over. It can be compared to the empire made by Alexander the Great which also split into separate parts after his death.

Wendi

Significance After the fall of the Classical Han Dynasty China underwent another Feudal period until the Sui led by Wendi were able to reunite China and continue the Dynastic System in China and claim the Mandate of Heaven. This is very similar to how the Qin under Shi Huangdi Unified China after the Warring states period. Both were short lived dynasties but accomplished unification.

3 Field System

Significance Along with the upgrade from the two field system and having two harvests a year it also reduced crop failure and famine. With more food meant more population, more population meant more division of labor, which meant innovation and the demise of the manor system, which meant the end to the Feudal system and the rise of centralized monarchies and the beginning of nation states, which meant an end to the Dark Ages and the beginning of an expanding European culture that would begin to dominate world affairs in the modern era. Take your pick of the effects above.

Ashikaga Shogunate

Significance Although the Ashikaga Shogunate had retained the Minamoto structure and instituted a warrior government based on the same social, economic, and obligations. It failed to win over many daimyo which caused many lords to fight for control over land and influence over the Shogunate. (more feudalism?... will this never end?... be careful what you ask for...)The Ashikaga Shogunate was considered the most feudal period in Japan (compare to the Zhou dynasty as it descended into the Warring States that was the best example of feudalism in China)

Moldboard

Significance An effect of the moldboard is that Europeans in the Feudal period were able to create food surpluses that allowed them to eventually break the Feudal dependence on the Manor system and begin to return to a trading society as the populations rise and job specialization increases. When combined with the 3 field system you begin to see the rise of Europe out of the DARK AGES and the rise in populations accompanied by more centralized governments and an expansionist spirit.

Flying Money

Significance An effect of this is that it encourages trade in Post Classical China. The Tang and Song encouraged commerce in multiple ways, and this was just one. It can be compared to the Mongol Kurultai in that it made trade easier. It encouraged people to become merchants because they didn't have to worry about being robbed. Trade is what ultimately spreads everything in this time period and sets up the modern world to come and this made it safer and easier to accomplish. Compare to modern day checks/credit cards etc..

Zen Buddhism

Significance Another example of how religions change people but people change religion. As Buddhism spread into China the Daoist influence on nature becomes prevalent and creates this new style that was popular later in Japan. Zen is significant because it is one of the few forms of Buddhism that has gained traction in the western world, with Japanese monks bringing its influence to the United States in the 1950s and 1960s.. In other words this is the type of Buddhism that Hollywood folks like.

Belisarius

Significance Belisarius is significant as he was able to do what so many in the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine) had dreamt of doing which was to reunite the East with the fallen West and take back the city of Rome himself. However his success was closely followed by the collapse of the West to barbarians once more which represents the fact that from this point on the East and the West in Europe would take totally different paths into the future.

Berke

Significance Berke was the first Mongol leader to accept Islam. His conversion to the Muslim faith helped preserve and spread Islam to the north into areas that are now Georgian, and Armenia and southern Russian areas. He is symbolic of the fact that the Mongols really are rarely defeated but actually just assimilate (become like) into the cultures that they once controlled. The Mongol infighting is similar to how ATG's general began to quarrel amongst themselves after ATG's death.

Charles Martel

Significance Blocked the Muslim advance into Western Europe at the battles of Tours in 732 which allows Europe to grow and a Christian world region that will eventually turn the tide of Muslim dominance in the world trade routes. He is appointed ruler over the Frankish people which marks the transition from the Merovingian dynasty of Clovis to the Carolingian dynasty that will eventually bring Charlemagne to the throne.

Renaissance

Significance Causes- The connection with the Middle East during the crusades exposed the Europeans to knowledge, art, trade goods etc... that encouraged a new desire to trade. Causes- Italian City States became wealthy with the new trade and it was this wealth that funded the Re-birth of classical art and culture in Western Europe. Causes- The Weakness of the Byzantine empire caused a migration to the West and away from the Islamic world that brought classical Greek and Roman learning with them. Effects- The move away from the dominance of Christianity to a more Humanistic view of the world

Chabi (IMPORTANT)

Significance Chabi displayed the independent mindedness and political savvy of many Mongol women. Ie... She didn't cave to traditional Confucianist view of Women. She was a Buddhist (no surprise here most women would be if they had a choice in China. Was an advisor (similar to Theodora for Justinian) who explained how to handle the potentially hostile scholar- gentry (Jinshi) Confucianist elite and peasantry that came to be ruled by Mongol overlords. She was a patron of the arts and shows the Mongol assimilation into Chinese culture on some fronts (Sinification of the Mongols in China)

Charlemagne

Significance Charlemagne helped restore the education (Church based) in western Europe and intellectual activity began to increase slowly and eventually allow Europe to begin to claw its way out of the Dark Ages. He is known as the "Father of Europe" as he was able to unite a large geographical area under his rule for a short time reviving the idea of the Roman Empire He is symbolic of the connectedness between papal and monarchical power that defines the Middle ages. He can be compared to Justinian in the East as Justinian spreads Christianity in the Byzantine empire and revives the idea of a Roman empire long after it was actually gone.

Vladimir I

Significance Comparison- Vladimir can be compared to the ruler Ashoka because he tried to convert his kingdom (Kiev) to Christianity as did Ashoka when he tried converted the Indian Mauryan Empire to Buddhism. Vladimir was more successful than Ashoka Vladimir The Great can be considered the founding father of Russia and basically created a political and religious union in Russia similar to that of the Byzantine Empire.

Cyril & Methodius

Significance Cyril and Methodius brought Christianity to Eastern Europe. The Cyrillic alphabet they used to teach the Holy scripture also brought literacy and literature to those places. The ability for the bible to be written in common vernacular made it more accessible to not only the slavic people but later on to other groups who were kept from Christianity due to a language barrier. Language barriers that kept people from holy texts and worship were similar to those that kept people from secular knowledge (ie medical texts written in Latin or Greek). Iconography also became prominent in the Eastern Church because it was a way to communicate without words the ideas of religion (a major difference between the east and west.

Ministry of Rites

Significance During the Tang Dynasty Three Departments and Six Ministries were created to be the main central administrative structure. These were important because like Justinian's law code, still being relevant today, the ideas of Confucius were codified in the Chinese culture forever. The Ministry of Rites regularized the pattern of advancement in the civil service. The Ministry of Rites can also be compared to the caste system in India: The Ministry of rites allowed people who were not related or born into higher class to rise to a higher social standing which was not allowed at all in the Caste system. (example of a meritocracy) which is a rarity anywhere in the world before the modern era.

Urban II

Significance Essentially, Urban II was the one who caused the start of the Crusades, or at least allowed the men to go to war. There were many different Crusades that extended the turmoil between Christianity, Judaism and Islam. All three of these religions claimed that the same area was their Holy Land, which is why there was such a dispute over who had it.

Magna Carta

Significance Established the principle that everyone is subject to the law, even the king. LEX/REX this was the first time since the Roman Republic ended that the Law placed rulers under it. The significance of this document can't be overstated to Western civilization. It is what is going to eventually result in the creation of the United States which is going to be a completely LEX/REX system. With the Constitution being the law that the government must live by.

Prestor John

Significance European Christians desperately wanted there to be a Christian ally to help them end Muslim Dominance in the Middle East. This Legend shows how desperate they were to bypass the Muslim Middle Man and get to the riches of Asia. You can still see this with the early European explorers like De gama and Columbus who are actually in search of him as well ie.. Christians beyond the Muslims. The legend had been projected upon Genghis Khan and Central Asia during the 13th century.

Ogedei

Significance For the most part, Ogedei continued the Mongol Empire on the path that Genghis Khan had set. Effects of his accomplishments include linking communities and peoples that previously had little to no contact, broadening communication between the east and west, and absorbing local customs wherever Mongols had settled, building bridges between some of the world's cultures. Trade became so prominent during his Pax Mongolica that when it eventually was halted by the Ottoman Turks after the Mongol era was over, the Western Europeans had to find a way to get to the Asian goods that had become accustomed to that they started their efforts to sail around Africa to get around the Muslim Middle men like the Turks.

Great Zimbabwe

Significance Great Zimbabwe acted as a trading hub that connected the interior to the Swahili coast and the Indian Ocean trades Routes. The ruins of Great Zimbabwe can be compared to the pyramids in Egypt because they are both national monuments that are still visited today. When the Europeans explored Sub Saharan Africa, Great Zimbabwe was the only place they considered to be an actual civilization. They were shocked that the Africans were capable of building this level civilization, indicating an underlying theme of European racism.

Greek Fire

Significance Greek fire was essential in protecting Constantinople from the expanding Arab and Islamic empires. If they did not have such weapons, the Byzantine empire and the eastern center of Christianity may have been destroyed much sooner than 1453. This is a defensive weapon that can be compared to the defensive castles and moats found in Western Europe at the time that kept Viking invaders back. Constantine VII claimed that the recipe for Greek fire was revealed to Constantine I by angels

Hangzhou

Significance Hangzhou would later become the biggest international center of trade during the Southern Song Dynasty because of the Grand Canal. Cities like this in China stand in deep contrast to the sparsely populated cities of Europe in the same time period. The largest city in Europe was smaller than the 50th largest city in China at the time.

Pachacuti

Significance He can be compared to Philip II of Macedonia because they both initiated swift, far-reaching expansion of a state or empire over a hard to unite geography. After his death, he was highly venerated and worshipped and in the official Inca State Archives, almost all significant developments in the state and empire were credited to Pachacuti. He was undoubtedly the most significant Inca ruler.

Yaroslav

Significance He solidifies the role of the Orthodox Church in Russian history that continues on to this day. After his death his united Kieven Kingdom is going to be divided amongst his heirs which results in the decline of Kiev and the vulnerability of Russia to the soon to come Mongol Hordes which are going to make Muscovy (Moscow) the center of future Russian Culture and government.

Yangdi

Significance He was responsible for the completion of the Grand Canal, which is still the longest manmade river to date and it linked the two population centers in China and the Yellow and Yangtze river basins. (China was always remain united from this point until today as a result) And he brought back Confucianism after his father, Wendi, emphasized Buddhism during his rule. You did not learn about Roman emperor Caligula but if you did you would know that these two dudes were CRAZY and they really needed to be killed by their own people because they were dangerous.

Gregory VII

Significance He was vital in separating the Roman church from the Feudal Lords, which would make the church sort of function on its own and with considerable power. He symbolizes the battle between popes and kings in europe for power as well as their dependence on each other for legitimacy. This battle will continue with different popes and kings for years and will culminate in the Reformation in the 16th century.

Ibn Battuta

Significance Ibn Battuta traveled to more than 40 countries. He has traveled more than that of Marco Polo. (which is a great comparison as they both traveled far out of their regions in this era which is really the first era where this kind of travel took place between regions) Ibn Battuta demonstrates for us that the "Islamic" world was by no means united in culture or politics even though it may have been united by certain core religious beliefs.

Bakufu

Significance In a Feudal state it is important to remember that "Might makes right" ie.. These shoguns will be controlled by the Minamoto family who had their own Samurai. This style of government if you want to call it that would become known as a Shogunate as the Shogun's gained more power. This is very similar to how Feudalism worked among ruling families and lords and vassals and knight in Europe in the Dark Ages.

Daimyos

Significance In feudal Japan, Daimyos can be compared to the Vassals of Feudal Europe because they both rule the individual states but owe their loyalty and their knights to the Shogun (at least until they don't and the Shogun looses power and then it is every Daimyo for himself) Feudalism sucks A change that Japan's government underwent is that it was broken into multiple states that are ruled individually by the Daimyos. (300)

White Lotus Society (IMPORTANT)

Significance In the 1350's the white lotus gathered support of the people of China through promises of "Holy magical powers" allowed them to succeed in their goal of overthrowing the Yuan dynasty to end Mongol rule and oppression restoring Chinese rule. (Change) Compare to another religious movement that helped to bring down another Chinese dynasty in the past. The Yellow Turban revolt (Daoist not Buddhist like this one) helped to bring down the Han Dynasty over 1000 years earlier. The enemy of my enemy is my friend... Mongol rule can even bring Buddhists and Confucianists together.

Carloginian

Significance In the Middle Ages, the Carolingians were the one example of some sort of political unity over a wide area of Europe. When the Carolingian dynasty ended it left the outlines for modern France, Germany and the Low Countries. (similar to how Napoleon and later Hitler tried to unify Europe) also similar to the EU in that respect today. (see pic to the right of the Pope Crowning Charlemagne) The Carolingians were a major conduit in the spread of the Christian faith over Europe. The dynasty also inspired the Holy Roman Empires due to "marriage" of the Popes and the Frankish kings. Which symbolized the importance of the Church in both religion and politics as well as culture in Europe.

Shoguns

Significance It is important to remember that when they mention an emperor that that "emperor" had no real military, or political power. He was a figurehead and a puppet of the military and the Shoguns. They used this ceremony to gain legitimacy much like Charlemagne was crowned by the Pope. The real political and military power in the Feudal period rested with the Shoguns and their Shogunates. (military kingdom if you will. This is the beginning of organized warfare and chaos that affects Japan for centuries.

Tenochtitlan

Significance It was an amazing engineering feat at that time in the world, considering it was built in the the middle of a lake. Shows that the Aztecs were extremely technologically advanced considering that they didn't have the same tools that the Europeans had at the time. It can be compared to Rome because both cities used aqueducts. Can also be compared to Venice because of its extensive canal system. Mexico city is now where Tenochtitlan was located because it was built over by the Spaniards when they conquered mexico in 1521.

Kiev

Significance Kiev had many contacts with the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantine religion of Orthodox Christianity spread to Kiev and was adopted as Russian Orthodox Christianity. Kievan Russia was a key step in the eventually unity that would exist in Russian around Orthodoxy and a central government. The central government however would not rise here but rather in Muscovite Russia (Moscow)

Kublai Khan (IMPORTANT)

Significance Kublai Khan represents the power of the Mongols. He is the EMPEROR of China for goodness sakes. He was the Great Khan of the Mongol world but he was preoccupied with his Yuan Dynasty and began to see a destabilized Mongol Empire where the other Khanates began to break off and be harder to control. Brought Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, Jews, and other into China to help him administer his empire as he couldn't trust the traditional Confucianism in China. He represents the Mongols greatest unintended consequence which is to take the Chinese technologies and spread them throughout the world allowing the Europeans to "catch up" if you will.

Gothic

Significance Medieval Europe is not known as a golden age by any stretch of the imagination however it is clear by the glorious and towering Gothic architecture that it was not void of intellect, art, skill, and beauty It is also symbolic of the great wealth and power of the Christian Church during the time period. The Church and its buildings were the center of power and culture as the late Middle ages begin. The gothic images are symbolic of the Dark Ages as a historical era.

Parliament

Significance Parliaments are significant because especially in Medieval England, they limited the power of the monarchy, and eventually became the leading governmental power, leading to the current system of nominally-ruling monarchs. The first full English Parliamentary session was held in 1265. It represented aristocratic, not popular, interests, however. One of the earliest parliaments was founded in 1000 in Catalonia (Eastern Spain).

Petrarch

Significance Petrarch's sonnets were significant because his vernacular writing was used as the foundation for modern italian language. (moving culture away from Latin) An effect from Petrarch is that he helped spark the renaissance. He was known for his classical antiquity he was the founder of humanism (Remember this) humanism is a move away from the Church and marks the beginning of the end for Church dominance.

Rurik

Significance Rurik is known for his diversity within his kingdom. He is from Scandinavia, which makes in a Viking, and his mixing of Slavs and Vikings in his empire. He mixes the cultures of Russians and Vikings. This can be compared to the Aryans when they came into the Indus river valley and merged their cultures with the Indian people. Rurik is considered to be one of the legendary founders of Russia. Along with Vladimir. They both brought something into Russia (Christianity and Viking cultures) that would shape and change Russia.

Samurai

Significance Samurai in the Japanese Feudal period can be compared to the knights in Europe's feudal period during the dark ages as they both had the responsibility of protecting the lands of the local lords and they also had a strict code of conduct just like the knights had chivalry. As Japan becomes unified after the Feudal period ends the Samurai become less significant as do the knights in Europe however that transition to other positions of power.

Serf

Significance Serfs in the feudal manor in Western Europe can be compared to essentially the exact same way the Russian used serfs as a form of labor in the late middle to early modern era in Eastern Europe. There were some similarities to chattel slavery in the new world in the modern era with GREAT exceptions. Serfs had virtually no chance of improving their social status in the Feudal world much like slaves in the new world had no chance at the same thing. They were both bound to the land and lord.

Sharia

Significance Sharia law and the all inclusive nature of Islamic law can be compared to how Hindu culture in India influences all aspects of life including culture law and social structure. Sharia is symbolic of the differences in Western culture that has a tradition of dividing religious and Civic life into two spheres as opposed to having a union between the two as is often seen in Islamic states. Interpretations vary among different Muslim communities around the world.

Sinification (Important)

Significance Sinification or (Chinafication if you will) can be seen most prominently in Korea and during the 7th Century in Japan (Taika Reforms) It can also be seen to some degree to the south in Vietnam. This can be compared to how the Kievan Rus adopt the faith and the laws of the Byzantine Empire for themselves ie.. Orthodox Christianity and Justinian's Code of Law. and how the eventually call themselves the 3rd Roman empire. It can also be compared to how the Holy Roman Empire attempts to mimic Rome in some ways albeit not very well.

Benin

Significance Stands in contrast to most sub-saharan states in that it was highly centralized in political power. Which means that it is better able to withstand the European onslaught that is to come. It is characterized by a Muslim and Catholic culture bc of the influence of Islamic and Christian traders in the Region. Islam through the trans-Saharan Trade and Christianity through the European (Portuguese) explorers

Sundiata

Significance Sundiata set an example for many leaders to come in the empire of Mali. The empire continued for several hundred years after Sundiata. Mansa Musa, one of his successors, followed Sundiata and used some of his tactics to lead. His successors expanded the borders of Mali to where it controlled the Niger River Valley and almost to the Atlantic Coast. He can be compared to Constantine because he converted to Christianity and Sundiata converted to Islam during his reign. He presented himself as the champion of traditional West African religion and today, Mali still practices 94% Islam as their religion. Sundiata's story is known by many people throughout the world today. His story also influenced the making of the Disney movie "The Lion King".

Hagia Sophia

Significance Symbolic of being the most recognized and enduring Christian churches in this Era. It was the mightiest symbol of Eastern Christianity until it fell to the Muslim invaders in 1453. It can in some ways be compared to what happens in Jerusalem with the temple mount of the Jews becoming a Muslim holy site (Dome of the Rock) It can be compared to the Roman catholic equivalent (St. Peter's Basilica which is symbolic of Western Christianity)

Yuanzhang/Hongwu

Significance Symbolic of the Chinese taking back over China from the Mongol Yuan. He was an interesting combination as he was from a poor family and Buddhist roots yet when he assumes control he does so as a Confucianist which was typical of the ruling elite and not the poor. He does something that is unique for China.. He expands and TRADES (Junks) for a short time until after his death the Confucianist tendency to ISOLATE returns and they stop the voyages of Zheng He and restrict trade once again. That was a big mistake in the Ming. If this guy's model had been followed the Chinese may have grown to be a world power and not the Europeans.

Foot-Binding (Important)

Significance Symbolic of the revival of Confucianism as well as the revival of patriarchy in China amongst the elite and ruling bureaucracy It also shows the fact that upper class women (who didn't have to work) actually had a lesser role than lower class women. They were treated as trophies for men if you will Compare to the patriarchal practice of SATI in India and Hinduism.

Black Death

Significance The Black Death shows the connectivity between the west and asia because of the Mongol conquests.The English immune systems weren't prepared for a new disease spread by the conquests. Secondly the Black Death gave people a reason to shift away from the church and look more into science and a feudal system because the pope could do nothing about the situation. The spread of the black death can be compared to hellenistic culture spread by alexander the great because, Alexander was pushing western culture towards the east, and the mongols were pushing eastern culture towards the west. As the Black Death significantly reduced Europe's lower-class population, an effect of the plague was the alteration of the social structures of the affected regions.

Golden Horde

Significance The Golden Horde carried extensive trade with Mediterranean which caused the Black Death to spread from Asia all the way to the Black Sea and subsequently into Western Europe. The Golden Horde is responsible for the rise of Moscow and the decline of Kiev in Russia as well as to hamper the development of a unique Russian culture. It is also responsible for the development of Russia to happen apart from the rest of Europe to the west. They also prove you can invade Russia in the winter and win unlike Napoleon and Hitler.

Khmers

Significance The Han Dynasty conquered the Nam Viet kingdom, and thus began the 1000 year process of trying to absorb vietnamese culture. Even with this, the Khmers maintained their own spoken language and village autonomy. Vietnamese women also traditionally had more freedom and influence in the family and society than women in other cultures. The Khmers are considered barbaric by China etc... and even by the ethnic Vietnamese however these people make up some of the population of modern Vietnam and most of the population of Cambodia. They show early Indian influence and later Chinese influence.

Kuriltai

Significance The Mongolian tribal groups had major quarrels with each other which would not allow for a major empire. Genghis Khan, through a civil war, united these tribes and the leaders declared him the Grand Khan, or Khagan, which allowed for the minor quarrels and skirmishes created by the tribal groups to be non existent. As a result, through the united mongol tribes, Genghis Khan creates one of the largest empires in the world. Compare to Philip II and his son ATG uniting the Greek City States and defeating the Persians and building a massive empire.

Khagan

Significance The Mongols traditionally were a series of nomadic tribes but with the unity created by Temujin aka Chinggis Khan aka Genghis Khan they start a tradition of electing a Great Khan or a Khan of Khans if you will to rule all of the Khans of the Mongol Tribes. Compare to the Persian King who was called the King of Kings because he ruled over the princes in all of the lands that the Persians ruled.

Neo-Confucianism

Significance The Neo-Confucian movement spread into Korea, Japan, and Vietnam via Sinification of most of East and Southeast Asia. Even with the influence of other philosophies in China like Legalism, Daoism and the new beliefs systems of Buddhism and even a little Islam and Christianity it seems that the one continuity in Chinese history is Confucianism. (which can still be seen in Communist China today in some ways)

Songhay

Significance The Songhai empire was the largest and last of the three major western empires in African history. It had several separate unique cultures under its control and more territory than any other African empire to modern day. Trade was centered around the Gao capital and the learning center Timbuktu (this is also true of the previous West African Kingdoms of Ghana and Mali). like Ghana and Mali they traded gold, copper, salt, iron and other minerals.

Song

Significance The Southern Song is essentially a "Rump" state meaning the core of what is left of the Dynasty in control of China as the North is taken over by northern barbarians and eventually by the Mongol Yuan Dynasty. Compare this to how the Byzantine empire was the incredible shrinking empire from Justinian in the 6th century through the final fall to the Turks in 1453. The Empire shrunk down into its stronghold just like the Song shrunk into it southern stronghold.

Taika Reforms (Important)

Significance The Taika Reforms were an attempt to operate like the Chinese did. Central government with an all powerful emperor who controls his empire with the help of a Confucianist trained bureaucracy. (sinification) or Chinafication if you will. They can be compared to how the Russians were imitating the Byzantine empire in some ways. Or how the other countries in China's orbit adopted Chinese ways. These things FAILED and it led to an eventual Feudal mess in Japan. If they had worked they may have enjoyed a long period of centralized rule that you often see in Chinese culture. The aristocrats didn't like it because they would have lost significance. (think of the boyars losing power to the Czars of Russia)

Li Yuan

Significance The Tang Dynasty developed into the largest Chinese empire, with their conquests extending from Tibet, Vietnam, Manchuria, and Central Asia. (Chinese expansionism) That doesn't happen very often. Except now maybe.. Remember that for later this year. MORE CONFUCIANISM and a different capital to go along with the blossoming Golden age in China. This is an Empire worthy of the Mandate of Heaven. At least for a little while.

Jinshi (Important)

Significance The Tang and Song civil service examinations (and by extension, the jinshi) were a restoration and continuation of the traditions of the Han bureaucracy. Ie... the comeback of Confucianism after the brief diversion to Buddhism. While established families still held the majority of Tang China's bureaucratic offices, more officials received their positions because of their success in the civil service examinations than had in the Han Dynasty. Ie... a MERITocracy of sorts in comparison the Feudal system (Europe) and the Caste system (India) that were solely hereditary.

Tatars

Significance The Tartars were in actuality the Mongols called by a different name. They can be compared to the invaders of Western Europe at the time like the Vikings. They used a unique technique to control the Russians (a tributary state) They appointed Russian princes in Moscow who would collect a tribute to be paid to the Mongols each year. This indirect control of Russia set Russia back decades if not centuries in development and it also allowed Moscow (as opposed to Kiev) and their princes to grow in power in Russia over time.

Trung Sisters (Important)

Significance The Trung sisters represent the more important roles of women in Vietnam (They were Buddhists and not Confucianists) compared to the roles of women in China. This happens during the Han Dynasty but it is a great example of the Challenges of sinification to the cultures that orbit around the Middle Kingdom (China)

Vikings

Significance The Vikings frequently invaded Western Europe, and reflected and prolonged the weakness of the West, as they made it difficult to to develop durable government or economic forms. The invasions of the Vikings could be compared to that of the Mongols in some ways. They eventually adopt the Christianity of those they invade. They sometimes settle and assimilate into the civilizations they invade ie... William the Conqueror, Rurik etc... The Vikings used long boats with shallow hulls so they could traverse the European rivers. This shows a technological adaptation to geography much like the Arab Dhows did with the lateen sails to catch the monsoon winds on the Indian Ocean.

Boyars

Significance The boyars in Russia are similar to the Lords and Vassals in Western Europe as part of this system is the Vassal's obligation to the lord in return for military support and mutual protection during the Middle Ages. It shows that Russia had a Feudal type of Government just like the Europeans. (Which represents the constant attacks that both regions were under during the time period) West was being attacked by Vikings, Muslims and Magyars and the Russians by the Mongol Hordes There is a constant battle for power between the boyars and the the rulers of what will become the Russian Empire. (Princes, Czars) This will continue until the Feudal era in Russian ends and the Czars have dominant control of the the boyars.

Grand Canal (Important)

Significance The canal was built to change how the capital cities were fed. Because the farmlands were creating a surplus of food, they would use the canal to send the extra grain from the Yangtze and Huai river up to the capital cities to be used. The Grand Canal in China is a great representation of a continuity because it still serves as a link economically and culturally between the North and the South of China. Symbolic of how technologically advanced China was in comparison to the West in the 7th century.

Battle of Kulikovo

Significance The effect of the battle was that it helped break Mongol hold over Russia and establish an independent and unified Russia under the Rule of the Czar in Moscow. Russia's 1776 if you will. By the time this finally happens Western Europe has already started to experience the renaissance and is well on it's way to establishing dominance around the globe. Russia in contrast is still in a dark age of sorts that they will not emerge from for another 200-300 years.

Yang Guifei

Significance The effects of this affair led to economic distress, military failure, and left the government unable to deal with the disorders effectively, which eventually led to a revolt of one of the Tang Generals in the North. The Dynasty was spared but at a very high cost and Xuanzong was forced to execute Yang Guifei in order to save the Tang Dynasty from more internal strife that would lead to external weakness. This marks the beginning of Tang decline.

Split Inheritance

Significance The fact that each new ruler had to get his own wealth, and build his own palace required each ruler to keep conquering more land, in order to get more money and land to build his own palace. This accumulation of new wealth every time a ruler changed made them a prime target for the Spanish conquistadors, who wanted their wealth. Compare to ATG who split his empire amongst his generals or to Charlemagne who split his empire amongst his grandsons with the treaty of Verdun or even Yaraslav the "not" so wise who did the same. This almost always spells disaster for the future of an empire. It stands in contrast to the typical practice of primogeniture that was used in most civilizations.

Timbuktu

Significance The growth of Timbuktu caused the rise of intellectual and religious learning in the West of Africa. 3 major universities and over 130 Koranic schools, caused growth in Islam and Islamic education. Timbuktu acts as cultural, political and trade center for West African Empires for centuries. Much like Constantinople does for the Mediterranean World.

Romance of the West Chamber

Significance The play has given rise to innumerable sequels, parodies, and rewritings; it has influenced countless later plays, short stories, and novels and has played a crucial role in the development of drama criticism in both the Eastern and Western World This shows the tolerance of the Mongols during their rule in China. They do not try to remove, mask, or remake Chinese culture but rather they incorporate it and even assimilate into it. Can be compared to the Renaissance (Elizabethan Age) achievements of William Shakespeare in England that set the standard for most western playwrights ever after.

Stateless Societies

Significance The significance for AP here is two fold. 1. Stateless society is not equal to a lack of culture. 2. When others show up to these places ie.. (Europeans and other African Kingdoms) it is all the more easy to take over and manipulate places that did not have a political state system already in place.

William the Conqueror

Significance The significance of William the Conqueror was that he brought the feudal monarchy to England and established that system. (Feudalism comes to England) He was of Viking descent and he ruled land in France and eventually England. This is going to eventually cause the conflict over French lands known as the 100 Years War. He also shows that the Vikings had assimilated into Christian Europe and were no longer an outside threat.

Cahokia

Significance The size of the Cahokian, earthen pyramid can be compared to Mexico's large earthen pyramids and even the Egyptian pyramids although those were stone pyramids. It is not common to think of Native American cultures in what is now that United states to be formed in a similar way to Mesoamerican cultures. We commonly view them as hunter gatherer societies as most were, however this is an example of an exception to the rule.

Russian Orthodox

Significance The spread of the Orthodox form of Christianity into Russia was of great significance because it revolutionized their culture and future by becoming involved with the artwork, architecture, culture of the Russian society from the 11th Century onward until the Communist revolution. (Atheistic) It has recently been used in Russia as a unifying tool once again. After the fall of Communism in 1991. Christianity was passed through Rome to the Western part of Europe and through Constantinople to the Eastern Part of Europe.

Taira/Minamoto

Significance The two clans were involved in the Gempei Wars. The Minamoto won the war and started a military based government. This started the feudal age in Japan. This also starts a time period where the "emperor" of Japan has no real power but is more symbolic or ceremonial which reminds me of how the Pope is viewed by many European kings after the Dark ages ends and how England still has a monarch but they have no real power.

Vivaldis

Significance The voyages of the brothers were precursors of thrust into the southern Atlantic by the Europeans. Ie... There attempts usher in the what would become the major theme of the next time period. European dominance of the World's Oceans. The Vivaldis can be compared to Christopher Columbus and Da Gama because both sought a new route to the riches of the Indies by circumnavigating Africa. Ie... bypassing the Muslim middle man. (Ottoman Empire)

Junks (Important)

Significance These are symbolic of the superiority of Chinese technology compared to the rest of the world in almost every way. These ships were massive in comparison to Arab Dhows and European Caravels. The fact that the Chinese (Ming) had this advantage and squandered it in 1431 when they stopped their voyages allows the Europeans to catch up and surpass them quickly. (1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue.)

Hanseatic League

Significance These guilds used what we now call capitalism, which will remain in play throughout history all the way until modern times. They opened their own banks and often loaned and invested money in the expectation that they would profit. It served as a model to other countries to adopt free trade practices and agreement between countries. Used banking in order to create investment capital for trade.

Paizi/Yam

Significance These innovations led to the Mongols establishing political and economic control over a massive Empire stretching from China all the way to Europe. They helped to create a time period of peace (Pax Mongolica) that enabled the transmission of goods, ideas, religions, inventions, and even diseases (Black Death) through a good portion of Afro Eurasia.

Gempei Wars

Significance These wars in some ways are similar to the Warring States period in China as there were warring families vying for control of what used to be controlled by a more central government.... Ie feudalism. After the war the Minamoto clan established the bakufu (which means tent) or a military government . It was the start of the feudal age in Japan. It set the idea in Japan of military rule that will last in many ways through WWII.

Griots

Significance They are similar to troubadours of the early middle ages. Both griots and troubadours sang histories and stories due to the fact that the people of their regions could not read or write. This is also true in early Greece, as Homer was a bard. He never wrote the Iliad and Odyssey, but told these stories orally. This was also due to the fact that the people of the region could not read or write in the Dorian age in Greece.

Ming

Significance This Ming "Brilliant" Dynasty started off brilliant and was a marked changed from previous ethnic Chinese Dynasties in that is was expansionist and set out on maritime trade voyages the may have allowed them to become a world power. It is a turning point in that those early expansionist policies are eventually repealed (sorry Zheng He) because of threats on their Northern Border (sound familiar) Traditional Confucian Isolationism is going to rule the day and begin the long Chinese decline while the western world begins its rapid rise using traditional Chinese innovations, (Thanks to the Mongols who spread the Chinese secrets around the Eastern Hemisphere)

Investiture

Significance This event is significant because it gave the pope more political power over the kings and it also gave the papacy more power to control church officials. This lead to a struggle between Gregory VII and Henry IV which was called the Concordat of Worms. (which essentially gave king's veto power but not the power to appoint church officials) It is symbolic of the constant struggle for political power in the chaotic Middle ages and it shows how the popes were dependent on the kings and the kings were dependent on the popes to legitimize each others power in Christendom.

Chinampas

Significance This improved the economics by providing food all year long. Chinampas helped feed the very large population which helped the Aztec population grow. The chinampas enabled the Aztecs to increase their food supply as well. These techniques can be compared to the way the early river valley civilizations irrigated their crops using various different techniques. (pick one) Or to the Inca who used the waru waru (see that slide for similarities)

Holy Roman Empire

Significance This is the one exception to the typical small Feudal kingdoms that made up Europe during the dark ages as it was the largest unified political entity in Europe since the fall of Rome up until today. It existed in some form until its collapse in the 19th century. It was looked to as an example of how Europe could be a united state by people like Napoleon and Hitler in later years. It also can be compared to the present European Union that is an attempt to once again unite Europe.

100 Years War

Significance This is the war that created France and England as we know them. It ended the Dark Ages and started the Modern Era. This war marks the final shift from Feudal government to National states. This war wouldn't have ended if it wasn't for Joan of Arc. Joan of the Arc was a 15 year old teenager who saved many lives by ending the war because it wasn't for her the war would have continued all they way until now. Major shift from the upper class fighting done by knights to the common man fighting with longbows (symbolizes the end of Feudalism)

Pure Land Buddhism

Significance This is when Buddhism changes into becoming a "popular" religion in China where all people can practice it in their everyday lives not just those who are prepared to renounce all worldly pleasures and desires. It shows how Buddhism changes into a religion that worships the Buddha and has a more western idea of an eternal afterlife much like the idea of Heaven in Christianity and Islam.

Seppuku

Significance This practice is part of the bushido code of Samurai in Japan. It can be compared to the strict codes of chivalry that knights in Western European Feudalism followed during the dark ages. This code is more extreme. Yeah I guess so. This kind of honor in duty is going to be revisited later in Japanese history. I devotion to family, duty, and eventually to the Nation of Japan would drive Japanese warriors through WWII.

Tumens

Significance This separation and specialization of troops and classes allowed for the success of Chinggis Khan's conquest over most of Asia and the Middle East. The Tumens can be compared to the Roman Legions because of the way they are subdivided. Roman Legions were divided up to allow quick maneuvering around enemies. Both militaries were used to quickly subdue enemies and maintain order. The Romans used many fewer calvary than the Mongols and moved slower but still effectively.

Mita

Significance This system of Mita was similar to Corvee Labor in Egypt and China that was used for massive governmental building projects like the Great Wall, the Grand Canal, or the pyramids Since this system was already in place in Peru when the Spanish arrive they keep it in place in order to get cheap (free) labor from the natives in the silver and mercury mines that the exploit for wealth. (Spanish Mita system) (it is a form of coerced labor that borders on slavery)

Batu

Significance Though Batu was brutal in his treatment of conquered lands at first, he grew more tolerant with time. Not only did he allow native princes to rule their lands at their will (so long as they were loyal to him and paid him tribute), but he was religiously tolerant, much like Persian emperors were to conquered territories. When he died in 1255, his empire did not die with him. The Russian states and other territories he had conquered in his time remained under Mongol control, and his empire survived until the end of the 15th century essentially putting Russia on pause until the Mongols of the Golden Horde were finally defeated.

Scholasticism

Significance To start with let me say this.... This is the combination of natural thought on to things that can not always be considered natural.. Ie.. the Resurrection of Christ is not logical nor is the idea of the trinity or walking on water etc... The "West" has a tradition from Greece and Roman of being philosophical and now has a tradition of Christianity. This Scholasticism is bring those two schools of thought together. An effect of this is a reemergence of schools and the creation of universities that are study different branches of knowledge but are tied together with Theology. (think about it like putting Jesus and Aristotle in a room and seeing what you get)

Toltec Culture

Significance Toltec culture can be compared to the Spartans as they were both militaristically based governments. The Valley of Mexico saw a series of empires occupying the same location and influencing the next civilization to occupy the region. This is similar to the succession of empires in West Africa ie... Ghana, Mali, Songhay.

Vasco de Gama

Significance Vasco da Gama proved the Atlantic and the Indian oceans were connected and that Europeans could bypass the traditional trade routes that ran through the Muslim Middle East. This does two important things. 1. It reduces the significance and status of the Muslim World and leads to a decline. 2. It allows European countries to begin to rise to the power of global maritime empires.

Waru Waru

Significance Waru Waru were similar to the chinampas used by the Aztecs for farming. Island farming if you will. This is a great ex. Of #1 WHAP Theme as it shows a way people adapt farming to the terrain they are in. The Inca also used step terrace for farming in mountainous terrain of the Andes. Much like the Egyptians used the Shaduf and the Maya used slash and burn techniques to farm in the Yucatan Peninsula. The use of Waru Waru was revived in Bolivia, Puno, and Peru and continues to be used today.

Manorialism

Significance When stable centralized governments break down (which is what happened with the Fall of Rome) people tend to look to a self sufficient economic system in order to survive. The is exactly what the Manorial system was. A system where localities could provide for all of their own needs without depending on trade from the outside. This type of economic system is found in Feudalism which is a political system that goes hand in hand with this economic system. It can be found in other places as well like in Feudal Japan and the Warring states era in China.

Quetzalcoatl

Significance When the Spanish Christian conquistadors arrive they see this apparent animistic and polytheistic belief system as heretical and something to be stamped out as was the human sacrifice that was associated with it. It was a justification to spread Christianity. He and the whole religious belief system can be compared to the mythology of the Sumerians and eventually the Egyptians and the Greeks as they all are designed to explain the natural world in the absence of science and monotheism.

Empress Wu (Important)

Significance While it is important to remember that the Sui, Tang, and Song dynasties were Confucian dynasties it is also true the Buddhism played a huge role in China at this point and no rulers played a bigger role in that than did Empress Wu as she even attempted to make it the state religion. (probably not a good idea as it started a backlash of neo-confucianism) It is no mistake that the first and only Empress of China was a Buddhist. Remember that Confucianism is a little on the Patriarchal side of the equation if you know what I mean.

Xuanzong

Significance Xuanzong increased trade and commerce which made ideas and innovations spread. This was certainly a CHANGE in the normal isolationist approach of Chinese dynasties. He can be compared to Pericles of Rome because they both symbolized a golden age in their culture and also they started the decline of their own culture in some ways because of their excess. (Pericles Peloponnesian Wars) Yang Guifei was forced to be executed and this caused Xuanzong to be depressed and he was not able to run the empire. He stopped and this started the decline of the Tang Dynasty

Yurt

Significance Yurts can be compared to tepees of the American Indians because they were both made of felt and/or skin and they were highly mobile which was needed for a nomadic tribal people. This kind of stuff is why they are the exception. The Mongols were the only nomadic group to create a massive world empire without having a central city as a capital. It also shows that these Mongols will be susceptible to the cultural and religious influence of the typical sedentary groups that they will rule over and eventually will assimilate into.

Marco Polo

Significance This is significant for a couple of reasons but none for important then the symbolism that Western Europe is now being exposed to the majesty, power, products, and innovations of the far east. This shows the safety and technology that allows the world to become connected because of the PAX MONGOLICA. It will result in a Western European desire to find alternate routes to the East to get around the Muslim dominance of the Middle East resulting in them finding the New World in 1492.

Fujiwara

Significance The family's primary strategy for central influence was through the marrying of Fujiwara daughters to emperors. In marrying off his daughters to emperors, the Fujiwara clan could have influence over politics through their daughters. This is similar to how ancient rulers exerted power of their neighbors and subjects. (see Mongols, Persians, Macedonians, European kings etc...)This is can be compared to many of the princesses in the Middle Ages that were used as political pawns to gain power. Their internal excesses and corruption is going lead to the end the imperial family and the rise of localism.

Swahili City-States

Significance The language, Swahili, is of Bantu origin and is now spoken in many countries of Eastern Africa. Arabs had migrated down to these city states and combined with the Bantu people and had developed a new culture, the Swahili culture. In much the same way in Mexico the Spanish combine with the native people in Mesoamerica and create a new culture.

Karakorum

Significance A significance of Karakorum is that it brought political unity to Mongolia that they previously did not have. The Karakorum is an important symbol of Mongol identity and it represents one of the only major empirical capital cities of a nomadic group. Once again the Mongols are the exception. It is also where the Mongols maintained what they could of their own culture and traditions even though over time they will assimilate into the cultures that they rule which is symbolized by the Mongol capital moving to China later.

Temple of the Sun

Significance Although the Temple of the Sun was used to spread the cult of the sun, the Incas can be compared to the Persians as both had a base religion, but neither forced or persecuted people who chose to keep their religion. Much like the Aztecs, the Inca felt that they were representatives of the sun and placed the value of the sun as their highest deity. The position of importance placed upon the sun by the Incans and Aztecs also reflects the sun god Ra of the Egyptian culture.

Thomas Aquinas

Significance Both Christianity and Islam were struggling with how they could reconcile religion and faith. At the time of Aquinas, Islam was becoming more oppressive. A Muslim philosopher known as Averroes can be compared to Aquinas in that both of them had been influenced by Aristotle and they believed that reason and faith could be compatible. However, Averroes's ideas and books were banned and destroyed as Islam rejected reason which didn't happen due to Aquinas in Christianity. As his book SUMMA THEOLOGICA is one of the most well known and celebrated books in the Western Tradition that he helped to shape. (it is a synthesis of all knowledge if you will) or the coming together of the study of all things related to theology)

Clovis

Significance Compare to the Slavs/Russians as they adopt Christianity and from the Byzantine empire. The Franks are going to adopt Christianity via the influence of the Roman Church.He was ruler of much of what the Romans called Gaul from 481 to 511 AD which is after the fall of the Roman empire during the transformation into Feudal Europe. He is symbolic of the fact that the "Dark Ages" have started and the barbarians are now in charge of themselves if you will.

Middle Ages

Significance Medieval Europe had less trade, fewer cities, and less cultural output than the Roman Empire and wars were smaller resulting in people living slightly longer. Government systems switched to feudalism from centralized government which included kings, lords, vassals, and peasants. This resulted in local scale problems and interaction and less freedom for peasants This change to localism can be compared to when the Han Dynasty fell when local lords are able to protect the people more than the state. This happened in many other places as well at different times ("middle" bc it was between the classical era and the rebirth of it ie.. Renaissance)

Muhammad the Great

Significance Muhammad The Great.was a strong leader of a powerful and wealthy West African Empire in an era that was seeing the first waves of Europeans to the region. It is significant as it stands in opposition to the traditional European view that African culture was somehow not as sophisticated as the Christian West. He also facilitated trade with Asia and Europe. He spread Islam through trading.

Guilds

Significance The cause of these trade guilds results from the growth of cities as Europe is being invaded less and food production has gone up so cities and trade begin to grow as well as a middle class of people who used to be serfs are now setting out on their own. It symbolizes a growing middle class that is going to challenge the Feudal political structure and begin to assert themselves as a power to be reckoned with in Europe. Also they can be compared in some ways to modern unions that are going to result from the Industrial Revolution.

3 estates

Significance This system of dividing society is a carryover from the feudal system that is going to have be dealt with in the rapidly change times after the Dark Ages had ended. With an emerging middle class in France it seem inevitable that you would see the 3rd estate rise up and challenge for more power that used to lie in the hands of the first 2 estates. It will be the cause of the eventual French Revolution.

Zheng He (IMPORTANT)

Significance Chinese bureaucrats (Confucianists) resented Zheng He and opposed the trade policy enacted by early Ming rulers , so Zheng He 's voyages were halted in 1431. Ming emperors consolidated their rule and isolated themselves, making way for Western expansionism. It is argued that if Chinese sea exploration had continued, they might have made it to the Americas before the Europeans, especially because Zheng He's "treasure ships" were much larger than those of the European explorers. He also represents the remnants of the Mongol era in China. Think about the for a minute. This guy was a Chinese/Muslim/Eunuch/admiral. ?? Crazy This guy would have never been allowed to be significant in a typical Chinese Dynasty but the Early Ming Emperors were much less isolationist because they saw the value in trade bc of the Mongols before them.

Timur-i Lang(Tamerlane) (IMPORTANT)

Significance The Post classical era was ushered in with nomadic barbarian invasions that took down classical civilizations. It essentially ends with this last great nomadic threat. He claims legitimacy by tying himself to the lineage of Genghis Khan and his techniques of terror and slaughter are comparable to the worst of the Mongols. Like his hero Genghis, he also falls ill and dies before he can attempt to take China.