Question 1

In the mid-twelfth century, which of the following created a subsistence crisis in Central Asia?

Accepted Answer

A drop in the mean annual temperature during the mid-twelfth century, part of a period sometimes referred to as the Little Ice Age, led to shorter growing seasons and less reliable agricultural yields in many parts of the world, including Central Asia. This contributed to subsistence crises by making it harder to grow enough food.

Question 2

Which of the following was an important activity of the Eastern Turks?

Accepted Answer

The Eastern Turks were known for their frequent raids on China.

Question 3

The Turks first appeared as part of what empire on the Silk Road?

Accepted Answer

The Turks first appeared as part of the Rouruan Empire on the Silk Road.

Question 4

The Mongol script that Chinggis Khan ordered created was based on the script used by what other society?

Accepted Answer

Chinggis Khan ordered the creation of the Mongol script based on the script used by the Uighur Turks.

Question 5

What important talent did Mongol women possess?

Accepted Answer

Mongol women were expert horseback riders, which was an essential skill in the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongols. This ability allowed them to manage herds and participate in the mobile lifestyle of the Mongol society.

Question 6

What is the first great nomad confederation that historians have clearly identified?

Accepted Answer

The Xiongnu, also known as the Huns, were the first great nomad confederation that historians have clearly identified. They were a powerful group of pastoral nomads who occupied vast territories in Central Asia from the 3rd century BCE to the late 1st century CE, and played a significant role in the history of China and Central Asia.

Question 7

According to Map 12.3, "The Spice Trade, ca. 100 B.C.E-1500 C.E.," which spice was sourced from the largest number of locations?

Accepted Answer

The answer of According to Map 12.3, "The Spice Trade,...

Question 8

What was one of the first things recorded in the new Mongol script?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What was one of the first things...

Question 9

What happened to Chinggis Khan's empire at his death?

Accepted Answer

At Chinggis Khan's death, his empire was divided into several parts among his descendants, a common practice known as appanage. This division was meant to prevent disputes among his heirs and ensure the empire's stability, although it eventually led to fragmentation and the establishment of separate khanates.

Question 10

In the seventh century, who ultimately defeated the Eastern Turks?

Accepted Answer

The Tang Dynasty ultimately defeated the Eastern Turks in the seventh century. The Xiongnu were defeated by the Han Dynasty in the third century BC, the Byzantines were not involved in Central Asia during this time period, and the Western Turks were conquered by the Tang Dynasty in the early 8th century.

Question 11

Political organization among nomadic herding peoples was generally based on which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Nomadic herding peoples usually organized into clans, with kinship ties serving as the basis of both political and social organization.

Question 12

What was one of the few specialist professions among the Mongol people?

Accepted Answer

Blacksmithing was a specialist profession among the Mongol people because it was necessary for producing weapons and tools. The Mongol Empire was known for its military prowess, so having skilled blacksmiths was crucial for their success in warfare. Mare milking, cheese making, and wool felting were important tasks, but they were not considered specialist professions.

Question 13

In what warfare skill did the steppe nomads excel?

Accepted Answer

Steppe nomads were known for their exceptional horse-riding skills and expertise in archery, making them formidable opponents on the battlefield.

Question 14

What evidence in this illustration reflects Chinese influence on Mongol military tactics?

Accepted Answer

The use of exploding projectiles was a common tactic adopted by the Chinese during warfare, and the fact that the Mongol soldiers are shown using them in this illustration suggests Chinese influence on their military tactics.

Question 15

Which of the following dominate Central Asian geography?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following dominate Central Asian...

Question 16

What conventions guided family decision making in Mongol society?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What conventions guided family decision making in...

Question 17

What goods predominated in the trade of Central Asian nomads?

Accepted Answer

Horses and fur were highly valued goods in the trade of Central Asian nomads, as they were integral to their way of life and could be used as currency or traded for other necessary goods. Textiles, iron, and grain were not as significant in their trade networks.

Question 18

In organizing his army, Chinggis Khan sought to do which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Chinggis Khan aimed to break traditional tribal loyalties to strengthen the unity of his army and ensure loyalty was directed towards him, rather than tribal affiliations. This helped in creating a more cohesive and effective fighting force.

Question 19

What is a yurt?

Accepted Answer

A yurt is a round tent traditionally used by nomadic people in Central Asia, including the Mongols. It is made of a wooden frame and covered with fabric or felt, and is easy to assemble and take down for easy transport.

Question 20

What happened to the father of Temujin (or Chinggis Khan)?

Accepted Answer

The father of Temujin, who would become known as Chinggis Khan, was poisoned by a rival. This event is a significant part of Temujin's early life and is often cited as a pivotal moment that influenced his path to becoming one of history's greatest conquerors.

Quiz 12: Cultural Exchange in Central and Southern Asia, 300-1400