This week, we explored the influence of different religious beliefs and religious structures on the development of civilizations in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Consider how these religious differences shaped the cultures around them. How did mythology affect the decisions of the working and ruling classes? What role did ritual (i.e., prayer, sacrifice, public celebrations, or morality) play in developing the markers of civilization such as the economy or the government?
As you consider the answers posted by classmates, draw connections among the regional groups. What similarities and differences do you find among the Asian religions, the ancient Mediterranean religions, or the Abrahamic faiths? How does religion help us understand the differences and similarities between the East and the West throughout history?
Reply to peers after making my assigment
Peer 1
Vijayanagar emerged in India 1336, and was established strictly to ward off Islamic invasions from the North. Where the state became a dominant superpower in India for more than 2000 years. Their political system was shaped by the threat of Muslim invaders, where they began an increased militarization. Eventually the city was abandoned, when they were unable to defeat the Muslim Sultans from the North. Who were equipped with bigger armies, cannons and overall better technologies. Sultan Mahmud of Ghazna who was the son or Turkic slaves in Persia would eventually conquer New Dehli. His new title would be Sultanate of Delhi, where this state lasted from 1181-1526. Mohammed conquered territories expanding from Iran, Afghanistan and Turkestan. India’s wealth is what brought these invaders to their borders. Where they could use the spoils of war to finance their Imperial efforts. Islam though appealed to those at the bottom of the caste system in India. Islam does not recognize a caste system but over time both sides would compromise where they were able to practice their faiths. Tensions between these religions intersected in many ways. The Sultans were able to use the wealth they obtained in these invasions to establish powerful states. Where they instituted heavy taxes to keep food prices low and establish price controls. Hindus though were able to hold economic power because of Islams tenants against usury. This insured that banking and the general practice of lending money would stay in the hands of Hindus.
Von Sivers, Peter ; Stow, George B. ; Desnoyers, Charles. Patterns of World History: Volume One: To 1600 with Sources. Oxford University Press, 2014.
