Early Civilizations and Their Characteristics

The video tutorial by Amanda from Fiveable covers key concepts of early agrarian societies in AP World History. It highlights the common characteristics of these civilizations, such as bureaucracies, armies, cities, agriculture, monumental architecture, and writing systems. The video delves into specific civilizations like Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Indus Valley, early Chinese dynasties, and Mesoamerican societies, discussing their unique features and contributions. It concludes with exam tips, emphasizing the importance of understanding general characteristics and making comparisons across societies.

What is a key characteristic shared by all early agrarian societies?

• Lack of writing systems

• Absence of monumental architecture

• Development of agriculture

• Nomadic lifestyle

How did early leaders often justify their rule?

• Through trade agreements

• By abolishing armies

• Through democratic elections

• By claiming divine support

Which writing system was developed by the Mesopotamians?

• Sanskrit

• Cuneiform

• Mandarin

• Hieroglyphics

What was a significant social feature of ancient Egypt?

• Democratic governance

• Short-lived civilization

• Polytheistic religion

• High social mobility

Which civilization is known for the Code of Hammurabi?

• Egypt

• Indus Valley

• Mesopotamia

• China

What major religion began in the Indus River Valley?

• Buddhism

• Christianity

• Islam

• Hinduism

What concept did the Zhou Dynasty introduce to justify their rule?

• Caste System

• Feudalism

• Mandate of Heaven

• Divine Right of Kings

What was a common feature of early Chinese dynasties?

• Isolation from other societies

• Democratic elections

• Polytheistic religion

• Nomadic lifestyle

Which crop was NOT commonly cultivated by Mesoamerican societies?

• Beans

• Corn

• Squash

• Rice

What is a notable feature of Olmec civilization?

• Olmec heads

• Hieroglyphic writing

• Cuneiform tablets

• Pyramids