Byzantine
Relating to the Eastern Roman Empire, known for its capital Constantinople and continuation of
Roman traditions after the fall of Rome.
Century
A period of 100 years.
Wealth
An abundance of valuable possessions or money; often linked to trade, land, or resources.
Constantinople
Capital of the Byzantine Empire; modern-day Istanbul. A major center of trade and culture.
Islam
A monotheistic religion founded in the 7th century by the Prophet Muhammad; followers are called
Muslims.
Justinian
Byzantine emperor known for codifying Roman law (Justinian's Code) and expanding the empire.
Schism
A formal split in a church or religious community, such as the Great Schism between Roman
Catholic and Orthodox churches.
Orthodox Christian
A branch of Christianity that developed in the Eastern Roman Empire, separate from the Roman
Catholic Church.
Mali
A powerful West African empire known for its wealth and trade in gold during the 13th-16th
centuries.
Mansa Musa
Emperor of Mali famous for his wealth and pilgrimage to Mecca; helped spread Islam in West Africa.
Ivory
A valuable material from elephant tusks, used in art and trade, especially in Africa and Asia.
Reconquista
The long campaign by Christian kingdoms to recapture territory from Muslims in the Iberian
Peninsula (Spain and Portugal).
Al-Andalus
The Muslim-ruled region of the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages, known for cultural and
scientific achievements.
Muslim
A follower of Islam.
Arabic
The language of the Quran and a common language across the Islamic world.
Caliphate
An Islamic state led by a caliph, who is considered a religious and political successor to the Prophet
Muhammad.
Mecca
The holiest city in Islam; birthplace of Muhammad and site of the Kaaba.
Mosque
A Muslim place of worship.
Pilgrimage
A religious journey, such as the Hajj to Mecca that Muslims are expected to take once in their
lifetime if able.