Honors World History Study Guide PDF

Honors World History Study Guide Module 1: Democratic Traditions 1. Greek Philosophy on Science The great thinkers used logic and reason to investigate the nature of the universe, human society, and morality. Greek philosophy significantly contributed to the development of scientific t...

Honors World History Study Guide Module 1: Democratic Traditions 1. Greek Philosophy on Science The great thinkers used logic and reason to investigate the nature of the universe, human society, and morality. Greek philosophy significantly contributed to the development of scientific thought. Philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid the groundwork for systematic inquiry and logical reasoning that are essential in science. Philosophies were based on the following assumptions: 1. The universe (land, sky, and sea) is put together in an orderly way and is subject to absolute and unchanging laws. 2. People can understand these laws through logic and reason. Socrates was the first of these great philosophers. His greatest student was Plato (who wrote of a perfectly governed society where the wisest ruled as philosopher-kings). Plato taught Aristotle, who examined the nature of the world and of human belief, thought, and knowledge. 2. Socratic Method Defined as the question-and-answer approach by Socrates, who encouraged his students to examine their most closely held beliefs. 3. Constantine’s Edict of Milan A proclamation that permanently established religious toleration for Christianity within the Roman Empire in AD 313. However, it discusses the spread of Christianity and its influence on democratic ideas, particularly the inclusion of individual rights and the dignity of all human beings. 4. Law of the 12 Tables The forced creation of a written law code, which was an important victory for the plebians. When the laws were unwritten, officials could interpret it to suit them. The law established the idea that all free citizens had the right to protection of the law and that the laws would be fairly administered. 5. Origins/Beliefs of the Monotheistic Religions  Monotheistic religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, originated in the Middle East and share foundational beliefs in the worship of a single, all-powerful God. They emphasize ethical behavior, individual worth, and the responsibility to combat injustice, which are important principles that have contributed to democratic thought. 6. Democratic Ideas within the Monotheistic Faiths These religions contributed to democratic ideas by promoting the dignity of the individual, the responsibility of the community, and the concept of moral freedom. Each faith advocates for justice and equality, which align with democratic ideals. 7. Renaissance/Reformation forge ideas of Democracy Renaissance: "rebirth"; following the Middle Ages, a movement that centered on the revival of interest in the classical learning of Greece and Rome Reformation: A religious movement of the 16th century that began as an attempt to reform the Roman Catholic Church and resulted in the creation of Protestant churches. The Renaissance revived interest in classical ideas and placed value on individualism and public service, while the Reformation challenged the authority of the Church and emphasized personal interpretation of religious texts. Together, these movements laid the groundwork for questioning authority and exploring ideas about governance, leading to democratic revolutions. 8. Distinguish between various forms of rule. Monarchy: Aristocracy: - State ruled by a king - State ruled by nobility - Rule is hereditary - Rule is hereditary and based - Some rulers claim divine on family ties, social rank, right wealth Oligarchy: - Social status and wealth - State is ruled by a small support rulers’ authority group of citizens Direct Democracy: - Rule is based on wealth or - State ruled by its citizens ability - Rule is based on citizenship - Ruling group controls - Majority rule decided vote military 9. Enlightenment Thinkers and Ideas of Democracy  Thomas Hobbes and John Locke considered human nature and the role of government. Hobbes states that people were by nature selfish and ambitious, and thought the type of government needed to control selfish ambitions was an absolute monarchy (a kind of social contract). Locke argued that all human beings had, by nature, the right to life, liberty, and property (natural rights). To protect these natural rights, people form governments, and the people reserve the right to rebel against a government that violates/fails to protect their rights. Voltaire and Rousseau lived under absolute monarchs but admired the democratic nature of English institutions. Voltaire argued in favor of tolerance, freedom of religion, and free speech, and targeted the French government and Christianity. Rousseau, who wrote The Social Contract, advocated democracy. He, unlike Hobbes, viewed the social contract as an agreement among free individuals to create a government that would respond to the people’s will. Believed that the only legitimate government comes from the consent of the governed. Montesquieu recognized liberty as a natural right and searched for a way to control government (like Aristotle). He concluded that liberty could best be safeguarded by a separation of powers (3 equal branches: legislature, executive, court system). 10. How U.S. formed Democracy in Government The U.S. democracy was formed through the establishment of a Constitution that created a representative government, divided powers between the federal and state governments, and incorporated the separation of powers to prevent tyranny. Enlightenment ideas played a crucial role in shaping this government. 11. Differences between American and French revolution The American Revolution focused on gaining independence from British rule and establishing a government based on Enlightenment principles. In contrast, the French Revolution aimed to overthrow an absolute monarchy and address social inequalities. The American Revolution resulted in a stable democratic government, while the French Revolution faced turmoil, including the Reign of Terror, before establishing a dictatorship. 12. Concept of the Federal System in the U.S. The federal system divides powers between the national government and state governments. This structure allows for a balance between centralized authority and local governance, ensuring that powers are shared and responsibilities are defined. Module 2: World of Islam 1. 5 Pillars of Islam (6th?) The Five Pillars are the foundational acts of worship and practice for Muslims. They include: 1. Faith: The declaration of faith that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is his messenger. 2. Prayer: Muslims are required to pray five times a day facing Mecca. 3. Alms: Muslims must give to the less fortunate through a special religious tax. 4. Fasting: During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. 5. Pilgrimage: Muslims who are physically and financially able must perform the hajj to Mecca at least once in their lifetime 2. Holy Lands and Holy Days Significant holy lands in Islam include Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem. The holy days primarily include the month of Ramadan, which is a time of fasting and prayer, and Eid al-Fitr, which celebrates the end of Ramadan. 3. Quran The Quran is the holy book of Islam, believed to be the word of Allah as revealed to Muhammad through the angel Gabriel. It serves as the ultimate source of authority for Muslims. 4. The Kaaba The Kaaba is a sacred shrine located in Mecca, considered the holiest site in Islam. It is a cuboidal structure that Muslims face during their prayers, and it contains significant religious artifacts. 5. Sunni/Shiite split This split occurred due to disagreements over the rightful successor to Muhammad. Sunnis accept the elected caliphs, while Shiites believe that leaders should be descendants of Muhammad, particularly from his cousin and son-in-law, Ali. 6. Caliphate The caliphate refers to the Islamic state led by a caliph, who is considered a successor to Muhammad. The early caliphates, like the "rightly guided" caliphs, played a significant role in the expansion of Islam. 7. People of the Book  This term refers to Jews and Christians, who are recognized in Islam as followers of earlier revelations from God. Muslims believe that these groups share a common heritage with Islam and are granted certain protections under Islamic law. 8. Sharia Law Sharia is the Islamic legal system derived from the Quran and the Sunna (practices of Muhammad). It encompasses all aspects of a Muslim's life, including moral conduct, family relations, and business practices. Module 4&5: Medieval Europe & the Western Church 1. Franks & Clovis The Franks were a Germanic people who held power in the Roman province of Gaul (modern-day France). Clovis, their leader, was the first king of the Franks to unite all of the Frankish tribes under one ruler around 496 AD. His conversion to Christianity after a victory in battle marked a significant alliance between the Frankish kingdom and the Catholic Church, enhancing the Church's influence in Europe. 2. Charles Martel Charles Martel, also known as "Charles the Hammer," was the mayor of the palace in the Frankish kingdom and became a powerful figure by defeating Muslim invaders at the Battle of Tours in 732. His victory was crucial for preserving Christianity in Europe and established him as a military hero. 3. Charlemagne’s Reign a. Achievements Charlemagne, or Charles the Great, expanded the Frankish empire significantly during his reign from 768 to 814. His notable achievements included the unification of much of Western Europe, the promotion of education and learning, and the establishment of a strong administrative system. He was crowned Emperor by Pope Leo III in 800, symbolizing the alliance between the Frankish state and the Church. 4. Treaty of Verdun The Treaty of Verdun, signed in 843, divided Charlemagne’s empire among his three grandsons: Lothair, Charles the Bald, and Louis the German. This division ultimately  weakened the central authority of the Carolingian kings and led to the fragmentation of the empire into distinct territories. 5. Battle of Tours The Battle of Tours took place in 732, where Charles Martel's Frankish forces defeated the Muslim army. This victory is considered pivotal in halting the Muslim advance into Western Europe and solidified Martel's status as a defender of Christendom. 6. Power of Medieval Church The medieval Church was a dominant institution that wielded significant power over both spiritual and temporal matters. It provided stability and unity in a fragmented Europe, influencing the daily lives of people and the political landscape through its teachings and authority. 7. Papal Supremacy Papal supremacy refers to the doctrine that the Pope has full, supreme, and universal power over the whole Church. This power extended to political leaders, where popes could influence kings and emperors, often through excommunication and interdict. 8. Holy Roman Empire Started as the German-Italian empire created by Otto the Great. Remained the strongest state in Europe until ~1100. The Holy Roman Empire, established in 962 when Otto I was crowned emperor by the Pope, sought to revive the legacy of the Roman Empire in Western Europe. It was characterized by a complex structure of semi-autonomous regions and a continuous struggle for power between the emperor and the papacy. 9. Crusades- Cause and its Impacts 3 main issues in the eyes of the reformers: many village priests married and had families (against Church rulings), bishops sold positions in the church (simony), and by using the practice of lay investiture, kings appointed church bishops (believed the church alone should appoint bishops). The Crusades were primarily driven by religious fervor to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim control, as well as by political and economic motivations. The impacts included increased trade between Europe and the East, a legacy of distrust between Christians and Muslims, and the weakening of the feudal system as many nobles and knights died or lost their lands. 10. 100 Years’ War The Hundred Years' War (1337-1453) was a series of conflicts between England and France over territorial disputes and claims to the French throne. It marked the decline of  feudalism and the rise of national identities in both countries, profoundly changing warfare with the introduction of new military technologies. 11. Nobles v Church clash for power a. Indulgences: The sale of indulgences allowed people to pay for the remission of sins, which led to significant criticism and conflict between the Church and nobility. b. Excommunication: This was a powerful tool used by popes to assert authority over rulers, as it denied them salvation and released their subjects from loyalty. c. Interdict: A broader form of excommunication that prohibited the performance of sacraments in a king's lands, used as a means to enforce papal authority. 12. Ferdinand and Isabella a. Inquisition: The Spanish Inquisition established by Ferdinand and Isabella aimed to maintain Catholic orthodoxy in their kingdoms by persecuting heretics and non-Christians. b. Reconquista: This was the effort to drive Muslims out of the Iberian Peninsula, culminating in the conquest of Granada in 1492. 13. Magna Carta The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, was a charter agreed to by King John of England that limited the powers of the king and established certain legal rights for nobles. It is considered a foundational document in the development of constitutional governance. 14. Council of Clermont In 1095, Pope Urban II called for the First Crusade during the Council of Clermont, urging Christians to reclaim the Holy Land. This event marked the beginning of a series of religious wars and was pivotal in mobilizing European knights for the Crusades. 15. Henry II of England a. Contributions: Henry II strengthened royal authority and introduced legal reforms, including the use of juries in courts, which laid the foundation for common law. b. Conflicts: His conflict with Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, over the rights of the Church and the crown ultimately led to Becket's murder, which caused a significant backlash against Henry. 16. Scholasticism & Thomas Aquinas  Scholasticism was a medieval school of thought that sought to reconcile faith and reason. Thomas Aquinas, a leading figure in this movement, argued that reason could support faith and that both were necessary for understanding truth. 17. Black Death a. Causes: The Black Death, or bubonic plague, was caused by bacteria transmitted through fleas and rats, exacerbated by poor sanitation and crowded living conditions in medieval towns. b. Effects: The effects included a massive decline in population, economic upheaval, social unrest, and a decline in the power of the Church as it struggled to provide answers and relief during the crisis. 18. Lay Investiture This was the practice where secular leaders, such as kings, appointed church officials. This practice caused significant conflict, notably between popes and kings, as it undermined the Church’s authority. 19. Concordat of Worms This agreement, reached in 1122, resolved the conflict between the Church and the German monarchy over lay investiture. It stated that the Church alone could appoint bishops, but the emperor could veto the appointment, balancing power between church and state. Module 8 & 9: Renaissance & Reformation 1. Defined Renaissance: A period from approximately 1300 to 1600 characterized by a revival of interest in classical art and learning, focusing on human potential and achievements. It marked a break from medieval ideals centered around the Church. Reformation: A religious movement in the 16th century that led to the founding of Protestant churches and significant changes in the Catholic Church. It was initiated by figures like Martin Luther in response to perceived corruptions within the Catholic Church. 2. Humanism An intellectual movement during the Renaissance that emphasized the study of classical texts and focused on human potential and achievements. It shifted the focus from  medieval scholasticism to the values of ancient Greece and Rome, promoting education in the humanities. 3. Classics Refers to the literature and art of ancient Greece and Rome that Renaissance thinkers sought to revive and emulate. The study of classical texts led to the development of humanism and influenced many aspects of Renaissance art and literature. 4. Artists & their work Leonardo da Vinci: Known for masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, he exemplified the "Renaissance man" by excelling in various fields, including art, science, and engineering. Michelangelo: Renowned for sculptures such as David and the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, he showcased the human body in a realistic style. Raphael: Famous for his use of perspective and his works such as the School of Athens, which reflects classical influence. 5. Authors & their work Francesco Petrarch: Often referred to as the father of Renaissance humanism, he wrote sonnets in Italian and letters in Latin. Johann Gutenberg: Inventor of the printing press, his work facilitated the spread of Renaissance ideas and literature. William Shakespeare: A key figure in English literature known for his plays, which explored human nature and flaws. 6. Origins of Luther’s Reformation Initiated by Martin Luther’s 95 Theses in 1517, which criticized the sale of indulgences and various practices of the Catholic Church. Luther’s ideas were fueled by the Renaissance emphasis on individualism and the rise of the printing press, which spread his thoughts widely. 7. Impact of English Reformation The English Reformation, initiated by Henry VIII's desire for a male heir, led to the establishment of the Church of England. This act was more politically motivated than doctrinal, resulting in significant changes in English society and religion. 8. Different Protestant Sects  Various Protestant sects emerged during the Reformation, including Lutherans, Calvinists, and Anglicans, each with distinct beliefs and practices. The divisions often arose from differing interpretations of scripture and church governance. 9. Calvinist Ideologies Centered around the teachings of John Calvin, Calvinism emphasized predestination, the idea that God has already chosen who will be saved. It also promoted a theocratic government led by religious leaders and stressed the importance of a disciplined lifestyle. 10. Catholic Reformation (Counter Reformation) A movement within the Catholic Church to reform itself in response to the Protestant Reformation. Key events included the Council of Trent, which addressed issues of church authority and practices, and the reaffirmation of Catholic doctrines. 11. Jesuits Founded by Ignatius of Loyola, the Jesuits played a crucial role in the Catholic Reformation by promoting education, missionary work, and the defense of Catholicism against Protestantism. They established schools and universities worldwide. Modules 7&10: Early Americas & European Exploration 1. Maya Civilization: The Maya developed a highly complex civilization based on city-states and elaborate religious practices. Key Achievements: Advanced writing system (glyphs), mathematics, astronomy, and monumental architecture such as pyramids and temples. Decline: The civilization mysteriously declined around AD 900; theories include warfare, environmental degradation, and resource depletion. 2. Aztec Empire Formation: The Aztecs created a powerful empire in central Mexico through alliances and military conquest, notably the Triple Alliance with Texcoco and Tlacopan. Economy: Based on tribute from conquered peoples, including agricultural products and human sacrifices for religious ceremonies.  Religion: The Aztecs worshiped numerous gods and practiced elaborate rituals, including human sacrifice to appease the sun god, Huitzilopochtli. 3. Inca Empire: The Inca built the largest empire in the Americas, stretching from Ecuador to Chile, with a strong central government and a vast network of roads. Administration: Used a bureaucratic system and the quipu for record-keeping; their society was organized into ayllus (family groups). Religion: Focused on nature spirits and the sun god, Inti; the emperor was considered a descendant of Inti. 4. Impact of War & Trade War: Military conquest was crucial for both Aztecs and Incas to expand their empires and acquire tribute. Trade: Facilitated cultural exchanges and economic prosperity; trade routes linked different regions and enabled the exchange of goods (e.g., cacao beans in the Maya civilization). 5. Capital cities Maya: Major cities included Tikal and Copán, known for their monumental architecture and cultural significance. Aztec: Tenochtitlán served as the capital, located on an island in Lake Texcoco, known for its impressive structures and complex urban layout. Inca: Cuzco was the capital, central to the administration and religious life of the empire. 6. Migrations & Adaptations Migrations: Early Americans migrated from Asia across the Bering Strait, adapting to diverse environments across North and South America. Adaptations: Cultivated crops suited to their specific climates, developed trade networks, and created distinct social structures based on available resources. 7. Geography of the Region Mesoamerica: Characterized by mountainous terrain, fertile valleys, and varied climates that influenced agricultural practices. Andes: The Inca adapted to the challenging mountainous environment with advanced agricultural techniques, including terrace farming. 8. Contributions  Maya: Developed a calendar system, advanced mathematics, and artistic achievements in pottery and architecture. Aztec: Innovations in agriculture, such as chinampas (floating gardens), and a rich tradition of art and literature. Inca: Extensive road systems, agricultural terraces, and a unique accounting system using quipu. 9. Explorers a. Origins: Many explorers came from European nations seeking new trade routes and territories, notably Spain and Portugal. b. Accomplishments & Discoveries: Explorers like Columbus (1492) and da Gama (1498) opened new trade routes and claimed lands in the Americas and Asia. 10. Conquerors Hernán Cortés: Conquered the Aztec Empire through alliances and superior weaponry. Francisco Pizarro: Conquered the Inca Empire, taking advantage of internal conflicts and disease among the native population 11. Line of Demarcation & Treaty of Tordesillas of 1494 Line of Demarcation: Established by Pope Alexander VI to divide the newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal. Treaty of Tordesillas: Adjusted the line, allowing Portugal to claim lands that would become Brazil, reducing tensions between the two nations 12. Social Hierarchy Maya: Comprised nobles (priests and warriors), merchants, artisans, and a peasant majority. Aztec: Similar structure with a ruling class, warriors, merchants, and commoners; priests held significant power. Inca: A centralized system with the emperor at the top, followed by nobles and commoners. 13. Slave Acquisition Methods: Slavery was often a result of warfare, with captives taken as slaves or as tribute from conquered peoples. Impact: Enslaved individuals were used for labor in agriculture and mining, particularly in the Aztec and Inca empires. 14. Triangular Trade  System: A transatlantic trading network that involved the exchange of goods, including enslaved Africans, raw materials, and manufactured goods between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. 15. French and Indian War A war between Britain and France in North America (1754-1763), part of the global Seven Years' War; it resulted in British dominance in North America and territorial gains. 16. 1st permanent colonies a. In Africa: The Portuguese established trading posts along the African coast, primarily for trade in gold and slaves. b. In Americas: Spanish colonies began with St. Augustine in Florida (1565) and Jamestown in Virginia (1607). 17. Columbian Exchange Definition: The widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, and diseases between the Americas and the Old World post-1492. Significance: This exchange had profound effects on global populations, economies, and ecosystems, leading to significant demographic changes and the introduction of new agricultural products.