AP World History - Unit 1 Review

Jul 30, 2024

AP World History - Unit 1: The Global Tapestry

Introduction

  • Purpose: Review of Unit 1 to prepare for tests/exams.
  • Content: Organized digest of key topics over past few weeks.
  • Resources: Study guide available in the description and comment section.

Periodization & Regions

  • Year 1200: Starting point for AP World History course.
  • Periodization: Divides the course into four periods (1200-1450, etc).
  • Regions: Importance of knowing different regions for questions on exams.
    • East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Middle East, Africa, The Americas, Europe.

Unit 1: The Global Tapestry (1200-1450)

1.1 East Asia

  • China: Central focus in East Asia.
    • Dynastic Cycle: Rule by emperors and absolute monarchs.
    • Key Dynasty: Song Dynasty.
    • Governance: Bureaucracy and civil service exam based on Confucian principles.
  • Belief Systems: Confucianism, Buddhism, etc.
    • Filial Piety: Respect for elders, key tenet of Neo-Confucianism.
    • Economy: Advanced economy with key inventions (champa rice, paper money, gunpowder).
    • Influence: Neighboring regions (Korea, Japan) copied Chinese practices.
    • Grand Canal: Major infrastructure project linking various parts of China.

1.2 Dar al-Islam

  • Definition: World of Islam.
  • Historical Context: Fragmented post-1258 CE after Mongol conquest of the Abbasid Caliphate.
    • New Powers: Rise of Turkish Sultanates.
  • Spread of Islam: Various methods (warfare, trade, Sufi missionaries).
    • Sufis: Mystical Islamic monks promoting a spiritual connection with Allah.
  • Innovations & Transfers: Algebra, trigonometry, medicine, scientific classifications, etc.
    • Preservation of Knowledge: Translate and comment on Greek philosophy.
    • House of Wisdom: Major intellectual hub in Baghdad (destroyed in 1258).

1.3 South and Southeast Asia

  • Major Religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam.
    • Important States: Delhi Sultanate (Islamic), Vijayanagara (Hindu), Srivijaya (Buddhist).
    • Bhakti Movement: Spiritual version of Hinduism rivaling Buddhism.

1.4 The Americas

  • Key Empires: Aztecs and Incas.
    • Incas: Vertical archipelago, Mita system, extensive road network.
    • Aztecs: Chinampa farming, human sacrifice.

1.5 Africa

  • Trade Routes: Focus on trans-Saharan trade (links West Africa to Dar al-Islam).
    • Important States: Mali Empire.
    • Key Figures: Mansa Musa.
    • Major Cities: Timbuktu (trade and intellectual center).
    • Other Regions: Great Zimbabwe, Axum/Ethiopia.
    • Swahili Culture: Blend of Bantu and Arabic influences.

1.6 Europe

  • Decentralization: Numerous small duchies, principalities, and lordships.
    • Feudalism & Manorialism:
      • Feudalism: Land for service or military support.
      • Manorialism: Estate system with serfs and peasants working the land.

Review Summary

  • Periods: Focus on 1200-1450 for first two units.
  • Regions: East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Dar al-Islam, The Americas, Africa, Europe.
  • State Systems: Governance and power in different regions.
  • Belief Systems: Islam, Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism.

Exam Preparation

  • Study the study guide: Reference sections on regions, states, belief systems.
  • Practice Questions: Available in ultimate review packet.
  • Videos and Additional Resources: Check the provided materials for more help.
  • Stay Engaged: Follow for more AP World History content and weird history facts.