AP World History: Medieval State Building

A system of government where power is concentrated in a central authority, often a king or emperor.

A legal code created by the Byzantine emperor Justinian, compiling Roman law and legal principles.

A magnificent church in Constantinople, known for its impressive architecture and mosaics.

A split or division, often referring to the division between the Roman Catholic Church in the West and the Eastern Orthodox Church in the East.

A system of social and economic organization in medieval Europe, where lords granted land to vassals in exchange for military service.

A tribute paid by non-Muslims to Muslim rulers, often in the form of money or goods.

A concept referring to the acceptance of different beliefs and practices, often associated with religious tolerance.

A network of trade routes that connected the East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.

The eastern half of the Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, continued to exist and thrive even after the Western Roman Empire fell in 476 CE because it had key advantages: its strategic location on the Balkan Peninsula provided protection, it was situated near crucial trade routes, and its government was based on Christianity, which fostered a strong sense of unity and identity.

The Byzantine Empire had a centralized government with an emperor who held absolute power. He controlled all aspects of government, including the military, law, and the Church.

The Hagia Sophia, a stunning church built by Emperor Justinian, served as a symbol of the Byzantine Empire's power and magnificence. It demonstrated the empire's wealth and cultural achievements, showcasing Byzantine art and architecture.

Justinian, a significant Byzantine emperor, implemented legal reforms by creating the Justinian Code, which unified the empire's legal system. He also ordered the construction of the Hagia Sophia. However, his reign was criticized for extravagant spending, particularly on the military, which led to heavy financial burdens.

The Byzantine Empire faced constant threats from invaders, especially from the east and north. To defend itself, it relied on strong walls, powerful military forces, and strategic alliances.

The Great Schism of 1054 divided Christianity into two branches: the Western Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. The main point of contention was the authority of the Pope, which the Eastern Orthodox Church rejected. This split continues to this day.

The Byzantine Empire, despite its initial strength, eventually fell due to several factors: political instability, continuous wars, and attacks from various groups, including the Crusaders and Ottomans. The final blow came in 1453 when the Ottomans captured Constantinople, the empire's capital.

Kievan Rus, a powerful civilization in Eastern Europe, was heavily influenced by the Byzantine Empire. It adopted Byzantine Christianity, modeled its culture after the Byzantine traditions, and even borrowed elements of its governmental structure, creating a strong link between the two civilizations.

The Catholic Church held significant power in Western Europe during the Middle Ages, influencing kings and governments. It provided education, charity, and a sense of community. The Church owned vast lands and wealth, and its monasteries played a vital role in agriculture and trade.

The Silk Road and Indian Ocean trade networks shared the goal of connecting different regions, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, religion, and ideas. Both networks linked diverse populations and fostered intercultural interactions.

The Indian Ocean trade network benefited from predictable monsoon winds, making travel more efficient and less risky. Sailors could plan their journeys based on the seasonal patterns of the monsoon winds, optimizing trade routes and reducing the risk of storms.

The Silk Road exemplified globalization by connecting distant regions, fostering cultural exchange, and spreading religious beliefs. It facilitated the movement of goods, ideas, and people across vast distances, leading to interconnectedness and global influences.

Islam emerged in the 7th century in the Arabian Peninsula, founded by Muhammad, who preached monotheism (belief in one God, Allah). After his death, Islam rapidly expanded across the Middle East and beyond.

The Five Pillars of Islam are faith, prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage. Muslims follow the teachings of the Quran, their holy book.

Islam is considered a universal religion because its central message of one God is meant for all people regardless of background or culture. It embraces a universal truth that extends beyond cultural barriers.

Muhammad is considered the final prophet in Islam. He was significant because he received God's revelations, which were compiled into the Quran, and established the foundation of Islam.