Caste System
Social class structure in India that is determined by birth
Hinduism
a major religious and cultural tradition of South Asia, developed from Vedic religion.
Sanskrit
Ancient Indo-European language of India in which Hindu scriptures are written.
Vedas
the most ancient Hindu scriptures
Nirvana
The final goal of Buddhism in which there is neither suffering, desire, nor sense of self, and the subject is released from the effects of karma and the cycle of death and rebirth
Lateen Sail
Triangular sail set on a long sloping yard, used especially on the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean trade routes
Monsoon Winds
Seasonal winds of the Indian Ocean and Southern Asia, blowing from the southwest in summer and from the northeast in winter. Used to help merchants trade
Caravans
A group of travelers, such as merchants or pilgrims, journeying together for safety in passing through deserts, hostile territory, etc
Satrap
a governor of a province under the ancient Persian monarchy.
Confucianism
a system of philosophical and ethical teachings founded by Confucius that created a structure for social life/ politics based on responsibility and moral character
Filial Piety
(in Confucianism) the important virtue and primary duty of respect, obedience, and care for one's parents and elderly family members.
Taoism
Chinese philosophy based on the writings Lao-tzu that advocated for religious piety and humility
Silk Road
A network of historical trade routes across Eurasia, connecting east Asia with the Mediterranean Sea
Hellenistic
relating to Greek history, language, and culture; period where Greek culture flourished
Stoicism
Philosophy that preached good citizenship
Pax
Peace
1st Triumvirate
Group of 3 men in Ancient Rome who held power; Julius Caesar, Pompey, Crassus
Democracy
Government system by the people; government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised directly by them or by their elected officials
Monarchy
Ruled by one person- typically a king, queen, or emperor
Oligarchy
Ruled by only a few select people like strong military leaders
Theocracy
a system of government in which priests rule in the name of God or a god; deity is recognized as the supreme ruling authority
Tyranny
Cruel and oppressive government or rule
Islam
the religion of the Muslims, a monotheistic faith regarded as revealed through Muhammad as the Prophet of Allah.
Sunni
A sect in Islam; more democratic in electing a leader not necessarily linked to Muhammad
Shia
A sect in Islam; wanted to elect a leader linked to Muhammad's lineage
Torah
Law of God as revealed to Moses and recorded in the first five books of the Hebrew Scriptures
Synagogues
Jewish place of worship & congregation
Western Wall
only remaining portion of the ancient Jewish synagogues; one of the most holy sites of Jewish religion