Chapter 3 Vocab Words Flashcards

Vocabulary Words Study Notes

• Emperor: Title for a ruler overseeing a large empire, often associated with absolute power and authority.

• Magnetic Compass: A crucial navigational instrument that assists in determining cardinal directions, vital for maritime exploration.

• Pilgrimage: A significant journey typically taken for religious purposes, reflecting individual devotion and cultural practices.

• Caravan: A collective group of traders or travelers journeying together, often across challenging terrains like deserts with camels.

• Astrolabe: An ancient navigational device that measures the altitude of celestial bodies to ascertain one’s latitude, essential for navigation at sea.

• Renaissance: A pivotal era in European history marked by profound advancements in art, science, and philosophy, symbolizing a cultural revival.

• Saga: Extended narratives originating from Viking culture, typically recounting historical tales or legendary adventures, orally passed down before being recorded.

• Navigation: The discipline focused on determining one’s position and plotting courses for travel, integral for maritime voyages and exploration.

• Slave Trade: The systematic buying and selling of human beings, a harrowing aspect of history with widespread economic implications.

• Mansa Musa: Notable ruler of the Mali Empire, renowned for his pilgrimage to Mecca and contributions to education and culture in West Africa.

• Vasco da Gama: Renowned as the first Portuguese explorer to successfully reach India by sea in 1498, expanding European trade routes.

• Marco Polo: Venetian merchant and explorer instrumental in connecting Europe to Asia via the Silk Road, his travels sparked extensive interest in Asian cultures.

• Zheng He: Prominent Chinese admiral who commanded treasure voyages to Southeast Asia and beyond, enhancing global trade and cultural exchanges.

• Prince Henry: Portuguese royal who significantly advanced navigation techniques and exploration, leading to the Age of Discovery.

• Johann Gutenberg: Innovator credited with the creation of the printing press, revolutionizing the dissemination of knowledge and literature.

• Leif Ericsson: Viking explorer recognized for being one of the first Europeans to reach North America, naming the area Vinland.

• Parallel Timelines: Method of illustrating historical events simultaneously across different places, aiding in the understanding of interconnected histories.