AP World History Review: Unit 1 Theme

Revival of Confucian thought blending Daoist and Buddhist ideas; emphasized social harmony and filial piety. Zhu Xi’s writings shaped education and civil service exams.

Educated bureaucrats who gained power through the civil service exam system.

Islamic empire centered in Baghdad; major hub for learning and trade.

Military slaves who seized control and maintained trade between the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean.

Hindu kingdoms in Northern India that resisted Islamic invasions.

Maritime empire controlling trade routes and spreading Hinduism and Buddhism.

A North American mound-building society with hierarchical chiefdoms.

A Mesoamerican empire built on tribute and warfare; capital at Tenochtitlán.

A decentralized political system in Europe based on mutual obligations among lords, vassals, and serfs.

An agricultural innovation in Europe that increased productivity.