Civilizations Flashcards
(29 cards)
What does it mean to say ‘Sub-Saharan Africa’?
Refers to the region of Africa located south of the Sahara Desert
This region encompasses a variety of cultures, languages, and climates.
What type of climate does Sub-Saharan Africa typically experience?
Generally characterized by a warm climate with varying rainfall patterns
The climate can range from arid to tropical.
Name four major kingdoms that flourished in Africa during the Medieval Period.
- Ghana
- Mali
- Songhai
- Axum
Each of these kingdoms played a significant role in trade and cultural exchange.
What were the main products Ghana depended on for trade?
- Gold
- Salt
Both products were essential for their economy, with salt being particularly critical for human diet.
What was the title of the king in the Ghana kingdom?
Ghana
The title reflects the name of the kingdom itself.
What religious beliefs did the people of Ghana initially hold?
Animism
They believed spiritual forces resided in animals and nature.
What significant city became a cultural and learning center in Mali?
Timbuktu
Timbuktu was also a major trading post.
What led to the rise of the Songhai kingdom?
Profits from gold and salt trade
The Songhai kingdom became the largest in West Africa.
Who was the king of Songhai when it experienced a boom?
Askia Muhammad
His reign marked a significant period in the kingdom’s history.
How did the Moroccans conquer the Songhai kingdom?
By using new weapons with gunpowder
This technological advantage played a crucial role in their success.
Where was the Axum kingdom located?
Ethiopian Highlands, near the Nile River
Axum became a prime trade center in the region.
What significant religious transition occurred in Axum?
It became Christianized
Axum was one of the few Christian kingdoms in Africa.
What was the capital of the kingdom known for ‘Great Zimbabwe’?
Great Zimbabwe
This city was a hub for trading and culture.
What led to the flourishing of states and empires in Africa during the Medieval Period?
Trade brought economic, cultural, and religious influences
The exchange of goods facilitated interactions between diverse cultures.
In which region did the Mayans develop?
Central American rain forests of Yucatan Peninsula
Their civilization peaked around 300 – 900 CE.
What was the largest Mayan city known for elaborate temples?
Tikal
Tikal served as a significant religious center.
What crops did the Mayans primarily farm?
- Maize
- Beans
- Squash
- Tomatoes
Agriculture was a major component of their economy.
What significant writing system did the Mayans develop?
Hieroglyphic writing
This system was integral for record keeping and communication.
Where was the Aztec civilization founded?
Lake Texcoco in Central Mexico
Tenochtitlan was the main city constructed here.
What agricultural innovation did the Aztecs use?
Chinampas
These were floating gardens that allowed for efficient farming on the lake.
What was the main god of the Aztecs?
Huitzilopochtli
He was associated with warfare and the sun.
What was a significant feature of the Incan Empire’s infrastructure?
A vast road system
This helped link the extensive empire and facilitate movement.
What method did the Incas use for farming in high altitudes?
Irrigation and terraces
These adaptations were crucial for cultivating crops on mountainous terrain.
What system did the Incan emperor use for record keeping?
Quipu
This was a series of knots on strings to convey information.
