Features of Civilization
Features of Civ: The Sequel
Similarities/Differences
Cultural Contributions
Rise/Fall of Civilizations
100
Define "civilization" and include how many features must be present to be called a "civilization"
a complex, highly organized social order that includes 8 features (characteristics, traits).
100
Were civilizations present during Paleolithic and Neolithic times (Stone Ages)? Why or why not?
NO, because they didn't have a "complex, highly organized social order". In other words, the 8 features of civilization were NOT present.
100
What did men do during Paleolithic times (Old Stone Age)? What did women do?
Men - Hunt game animals (birds, elk, deer, etc.) Women - Gather berries and nuts *Bonus 100 pts. - women also took care of the children
100
What is an example of a "legacy" or "cultural contribution"?
Changes world history. Something no one else has done yet, and it changes the way people do things. Spread of an idea across cultures (influences other cultures).
100
What is an important contribution made to the world by the Maya? (in other words, what is an important invention made by the Maya?)
Calendar
200
Describe "job specialization" and (a feature that must be present to be a civilization).
Individuals began to specialize in certain jobs such as artisans (skilled craftsworker) who made pottery or finely carved or woven goods. Metalworkers, bricklayers, soldiers, singers, dancers, storytellers, and merchants among other specialized jobs.
200
Describe the "arts and architecture" feature of a civilization.
Arts and architecture from ancient civilizations expressed the beliefs and values of the people who created them. Statues, temples and palaces showed the strength and power of their government and religion.
200
Why did the food supply go up during Neolithic Age? (in other words, what methods/techniques were invented during New Stone Age?)
Farming and domestication of animals.
200
What classical civilization built the "Colosseum"? How is the design of the Colosseum similar to modern day sports stadiums?
Romans; modern stadiums are round or oval, some have roofs to protects fans from weather, several tiers (levels) of seating so that thousands can watch the playing field, passageways, stairs, entrances placed around the stadium to allow flow of people in and out (reduce congestion, crowding)
200
***Bonus Tip for Exam Success :) How can you study for this exam? And what are you allowed to use on the exam?
Review "wutod's", unit 1 assignments and readings, and PLAY Jeopardy review (website link on board); 1/2 page "cheat sheet" (front and back)
300
Describe "social classes" (a feature that must be present to be a civilization).
Social organization became more complex with job specialization. People were ranked according to their jobs. Priests, nobles > wealthy merchants > artisans > peasant farmers (majority) > slaves
300
Special World History Question (200pt ea): 1) Where is Syria located? 2) Why does the U.S. want to get involved in Syrian civil war? 3) Why is what is happening in Syria a worldwide concern?
1) By Mediterranean Sea, North of Jordan, South of Turkey, West of Iraq, East of Lebanon 2) U.S. is upset about the Syrian government using chemical weapons against their civilians. 3) Fighting in Syria could cause international instability (high cultural, political, religious tension already in neighboring countries)
300
How did leadership change from Paleolithic to Neolithic times? (in other words, who was in charge during Paleolithic Age and who was in charge during Neolithic Age?)
Paleolithic Age - elder council (leaders of group/tribe of 20-30 members) Neolithic Age - young warriors were in charge (leaders of the village)
300
Why was the "Silk Road" important? (Describe the impact of the "Silk Road" on world history)
Massive, highly popular trade route from China to Mediterranean Sea (then shipped items to Rome, Greece) that created cultural diffusion (mixing of cultures). Many items, skills, and ideas (especially religion) spread across the world. Items such as silk, jade, ivory, spices, paper, incense, animals, musical instruments, foods (such as grapes and cucumbers), etc.
300
What happened to the Maya?
History Mystery. Theories suggest that constant warfare disrupted trade and caused economic hardship. Also, population growth and over-farming may have damaged the environment, causing famine (starvation) and disease.
400
Describe "organized governments" (a feature that must be present to be a civilization)
Far more powerful that the councils of elders and local chiefs of farming villages. Most of the time rulers claimed their right to rule came from the gods. Rulers issued laws, collected taxes, and organized systems of defense.
400
Describe "writing" as a feature of a civilization. Also, describe "scribes".
Pictograms (simple drawings/pictures) were the earliest form of writing. Soon, became more complex. Record-keeping of crops, seasons, religious rituals and prayers emerged. Scribes were specially trained people who learned to read and write. Scribes were educated in temple schools and kept records for priests.
400
Were women allowed to become scribes? How did this affect their ability to gain political, social, and economic power?
Only a few societies allowed women to attend temple schools which prevented them from becoming scribes. This occupation gave social and economic power, and often led to political power; so it prevented women from gaining social, economic and political power.
400
***DAILY DOUBLE*** Which 2 classical civilizations that we learned about influenced modern day America the most? How? (must list 3 ways)
Rome and Greece; common currency, language, measurements; laws, government, art and architecture, mathematics/science
400
What is a similar strength of Mesoamerican civilizations (Maya, Inca, Aztec) that helped them rise to power?
united culture
500
Describe "complex religions" (a feature that must be present to be a civilization)
Like their Stone Age ancestors, most ancient people were polytheistic (believed in many gods). They were highly dependent on their environment and the weather so they believed in sun gods, river goddesses, and other spirits that controlled natural forces. Had complex rituals such as ceremonies, dances, prayers, and built temples.
500
Describe "public works" and "cities" (2 features of a civilization)
cities - more advanced than villages of Neolithic Age. Built around rivers due to fertile soil (good farming) and had high defensive walls. Center of civilization. public works - strong rulers ordered civilians to build these to benefit the city by protecting it from attack and ensuring its food supply. Things such as public water tanks (bathhouses), irrigation systems, defensive walls, temples, palaces, roads, and bridges.
500
How were all four ancient civilizations that we learned about influenced by geography? (in other words, what similar geographic feature did all 4 form around, what were the advantages/disadvantages of this...or how did they use the environment around them to "survive and advance"?)
Egypt, China, India (Indus River Valley), and Mesopotamia all formed around river valleys. Rivers provided fertile soil (good farming), water supply, and transportation. **Bonus 100pts. if also stated near mountains and deserts, which were natural barriers to possible attackers and occasionally trade
500
What are 4 cultural contributions made by the Chinese? Why are these inventions/contributions important to world history?
silk - soft cloth but extremely strong and warm paper - inexpensive way to produce writing and printing (spread of ideas, record keeping, HISTORY) magnetic compass - helps sailors navigate seas gunpowder - fireworks, weapons
500
What role did religion play in the Maya, Aztec, and Inca civilizations and...why is this important? Also, did they believe in one god or many gods?
Played a major role in society and rule; influenced most aspects of their lives. Contributed to their decline (focus). Religious beliefs led to development of calendars, mathematics, and astronomy. They believed in many gods...based on nature/weather/environment among other things
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