World History BEFORE 1200 [AP World History Review]

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of key historical events and themes leading up to the year 1200 CE, as covered in Heimler's History video on World History. It serves as a foundational guide for students preparing for the AP World History exam and offers context that, while not directly tested, is essential for understanding later developments in global history.

Step 1: Understand the Neolithic Revolution

• Familiarize yourself with the transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled agriculture.
• Recognize the impact of agriculture on human societies, including:
  • Population growth
  • Development of permanent settlements
  • Social stratification and the rise of complex societies
• Key takeaway: The Neolithic Revolution set the stage for future civilizations.

Step 2: Explore Early Empires

• Investigate the emergence of early empires, including:
  • Mesopotamia
  • Egypt
  • Indus Valley
  • China
• Identify common characteristics of these empires:
  • Centralized government
  • Trade networks
  • Cultural achievements (e.g., writing, architecture)
• Practical tip: Create a timeline to visualize the rise and fall of these empires.

Step 3: Examine the Classical Age

• Study the major civilizations of the Classical Age:
  • Greece and Rome
  • Maurya and Gupta Empires in India
  • Han Dynasty in China
• Understand the political, philosophical, and cultural contributions:
  • Democracy in Greece
  • Legal systems in Rome
  • Confucianism and Daoism in China
• Common pitfall: Avoid oversimplifying the contributions; each civilization had unique features and influences.

Step 4: Analyze the Spread of Religions

• Review the major world religions that emerged during this period:
  • Hinduism and Buddhism in India
  • Judaism in the Middle East
  • Zoroastrianism in Persia
  • Christianity and its beginnings
• Discuss the factors that facilitated the spread of these religions:
  • Trade routes
  • Conquests
  • Missionary activities
• Real-world application: Consider how these religions shaped cultural identities and societal structures.

Conclusion

This tutorial highlights the critical historical developments before 1200 CE, including the Neolithic Revolution, the rise of early empires, the classical age, and the spread of religions. Understanding these concepts will provide a solid foundation for studying the AP World History curriculum. For further learning, consider utilizing additional resources such as follow-along note guides or joining study groups to deepen your understanding.