people are hired or promoted based on talent and skills

Growth of cities

an economy in which people use currency rather than bartering to trade

a system of Indian Ocean trade routes that connected Asia, India, Arabia, and Africa.

ancient trade route that linked Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Silk was an important trade item.

a nomadic people who eventually conquered much of Asia

leader of the Mongols who organized them into a powerful army for conquest

payment or gift to a more powerful country or government

Chinese explorer who led a series of sea voyages to win more tributary states.

a device that uses earth's magnetic field to show direction

a process of printing that used text carved into wood blocks and ink

thin, beautiful pottery; valuable Chinese export

Chinese philosophy that teaches that all things should follow the "dao" to find peace

religion based on the teachings of Buddha; taught that to prevent suffering people should stop wanting things and seek Nirvana

a system of moral behavior based on the teachings of Confucius that stressed being a good example and respect