This lesson examines how the crises of the fourteenth century reshaped work, wealth, and social relationships in Europe. It also considers how global connections can spread both opportunity and risk.
The fourteenth century brought plague, famine, and political conflict across many regions. As communities recovered, some empires and trade routes weakened, while other political and economic systems emerged. These transformations contributed to the development of a more interconnected world.
All flashcards
Globalization
The growing interconnectedness of societies and economies through trade, technology, and cultural exchange.
Serf
A rural worker who worked land controlled by a landowner and owed labor as rent.
Conciliar movement
A proposal to give councils of clergy greater authority in resolving problems within the church.
Sufism
A mystical form of Islam emphasizing inward contemplation and the believer’s connection with the divine.
Asceticism
Strict self-discipline and the denial of worldly goods as a spiritual practice.
Quiz questions
How did the longbow challenge the traditional military role of feudal knights?Answer: It could defeat forces that relied on mounted cavalry.
Why did rulers increasingly rely on educated members of the merchant class for administration after the Black Death?Answer: The deaths of many clergy left rulers seeking other people to perform administrative work.
What did the conciliar movement propose for resolving problems in the western church?Answer: Giving councils of clergy greater authority.
How did Confucianism relate to Buddhism and Daoism under the Ming?Answer: It was renewed alongside Buddhism and Daoism, rather than simply replacing them.
What was the political situation in much of the German-speaking territory of the Holy Roman Empire by the end of the fourteenth century?Answer: It remained divided among numerous principalities.
Based on World History Volume 1, to 1500 by Ann Kordas, Ryan J. Lynch, Brooke Nelson, Julie Tatlock (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.