key terms unit 1 and 2 ap world

5 min read 22-11-2024

Meta Description: Ace your AP World History Units 1 & 2 exams! This comprehensive guide covers key terms, concepts, and provides context for a deeper understanding. Master the significant events and figures that shaped early human societies and classical civilizations. Prepare for success with this in-depth resource. (158 characters)

Unit 1: Technological and Environmental Transformations (to c. 600 BCE)

This unit lays the foundation for understanding the development of human societies. Mastering these key terms is crucial for success.

Early Humans & Development of Agriculture:

Paleolithic Era: The "Old Stone Age," characterized by hunter-gatherer societies and the development of basic stone tools. Understand the nomadic lifestyle and its impact on social structures. This period saw the earliest forms of human expression, such as cave paintings.
Neolithic Revolution: The "Agricultural Revolution," marking a shift from nomadic hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities. This transformation had profound consequences, leading to population growth, specialization of labor, and the development of villages. Note the impact on social structures and the environment.
Sedentary Lifestyle: The shift to a settled lifestyle, as opposed to the nomadic lifestyle of hunter-gatherers. This had major impacts on population density, social organization, and resource management. It's directly tied to the Neolithic Revolution.
Domestication of Plants and Animals: The process by which humans selectively bred plants and animals for desirable traits. This was a key development of the Neolithic Revolution, allowing for increased food production. Consider the effects on both humans and the environment.
Specialization of Labor: The development of specialized roles within societies, a consequence of the food surpluses created by agriculture. This led to more complex social structures and hierarchies. This is a key theme to understand throughout AP World History.

Early Civilizations:

Mesopotamia: The region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, home to some of the earliest civilizations. Key characteristics include city-states, irrigation systems, cuneiform writing, and a complex social hierarchy. Remember the role of rivers and their impact.
Sumer: One of the earliest civilizations in Mesopotamia, known for its advanced city-states, irrigation systems, and cuneiform writing. They invented the wheel and were pioneers in mathematics and astronomy. This sets the stage for later civilizations in the region.
Egypt: A civilization along the Nile River, known for its powerful pharaohs, monumental architecture (pyramids), hieroglyphic writing, and sophisticated administrative systems. Understand the importance of the Nile's predictability and the impact on Egyptian society and culture.
Indus River Valley Civilization: A well-organized urban civilization in the Indus River Valley, known for its advanced city planning, standardized weights and measures, and sophisticated drainage systems. Much about their culture and social organization remains a mystery.
Shang Dynasty: The first historically verifiable dynasty in China, known for its bronze casting, oracle bones (used for divination), and development of a writing system. This dynasty's innovations influenced later Chinese civilizations.

Development of Technology & Belief Systems:

Irrigation: The artificial watering of land to facilitate agriculture. This was crucial for the development of early civilizations in river valleys. It enabled larger populations and more complex societies.
Cuneiform: The earliest known system of writing, developed in Mesopotamia. It allowed for the recording of history, laws, and literature. The development of writing marks a turning point in human history.
Hieroglyphics: A system of writing used in ancient Egypt, characterized by pictorial symbols. It was used to record religious texts, royal decrees, and other important information.
Bronze Age: A period characterized by the use of bronze tools and weapons. This technology led to advancements in warfare and agriculture. The bronze age followed the Neolithic Revolution.
Polytheism: The belief in many gods, common in many early civilizations. Understanding the role of religion and mythology is key to interpreting the cultures of these civilizations.

Unit 2: Organization and Reorganization of Human Societies (c. 600 BCE – c. 600 CE)

This unit explores the rise and fall of major empires and the development of new social, political, and economic systems.

Classical Civilizations:

Classical Civilizations: A period characterized by the rise of large, complex empires in various parts of the world. Compare and contrast the characteristics of these empires. Consider their strengths, weaknesses, and lasting impacts.
Persian Empire: A vast empire in the Middle East, known for its efficient administrative system, religious tolerance (generally), and well-developed infrastructure (roads). Their organizational skills are impressive.
Greek City-States (Polis): Independent city-states in ancient Greece, each with its own government and culture. Athens and Sparta are the best-known examples, showcasing different political systems (democracy versus oligarchy).
Roman Empire: A vast empire in the Mediterranean region, known for its military power, complex legal system, and impressive infrastructure (roads, aqueducts). Understand its expansion, internal struggles, and eventual decline.
Han Dynasty: A powerful dynasty in China, known for its centralized government, expansion of the empire, and advancements in technology (papermaking). Its influence shaped Chinese society for centuries.
Mauryan Empire: A vast empire in ancient India, known for its centralized administration, promotion of Buddhism, and economic prosperity under Ashoka. Its reach across India influenced later empires.

Major Religions & Philosophies:

Confucianism: A philosophy emphasizing social harmony, filial piety, and the importance of education and ethical behavior. It profoundly shaped Chinese society and governance.
Daoism (Taoism): A philosophy emphasizing living in harmony with nature and the Dao (the Way). It offers a contrasting perspective to Confucianism in Chinese thought.
Buddhism: A religion originating in India, emphasizing the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the pursuit of enlightenment. It spread throughout Asia, influencing many cultures.
Hinduism: A religion originating in India, encompassing a wide range of beliefs and practices, including reincarnation and dharma (duty). It's interwoven with Indian society and culture.
Judaism: A monotheistic religion originating in the Middle East, emphasizing the covenant between God and the Jewish people. Its monotheistic beliefs shaped later religions.
Christianity: A monotheistic religion originating in the Roman Empire, emphasizing the teachings of Jesus Christ. It spread throughout the Roman Empire and beyond, influencing Western Civilization significantly.

Trade & Cultural Exchange:

Silk Road: A network of trade routes connecting the East and West. It facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and religions. Understand its impact on the connected societies.
Trans-Saharan Trade: Trade routes across the Sahara Desert, connecting North Africa with sub-Saharan Africa. It facilitated the exchange of gold, salt, and other goods.
Indian Ocean Trade: A network of sea routes connecting East Africa, the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. It facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas.

This detailed outline provides a strong foundation for understanding the key terms and concepts in AP World History Units 1 and 2. Remember to use primary and secondary sources to deepen your understanding of each term and its historical context. Good luck!