Episode 7 - Japan and Mongolia

In the Backroom

Essential Understandings

Japanese cultural development was influenced by proximity to China.

Shinto and Buddhism coexisted as religious traditions in the Japanese culture.

Essential Knowledge
Location and place

· Mountainous Japanese archipelago (four main islands)

· Sea of Japan or East Sea between Japan and Asian mainland

· Proximity to China and Korea

Influence of Chinese culture

· Writing

· Architecture

· Buddhism

Shinto

· Ethnic religion unique to Japan

· Importance of natural features, forces of nature, and ancestors

· State religion; worship of the emperor

· Coexistence with Buddhism

Essential Understandings

Mongol armies invaded Russia, Southwest Asia, and China, creating an empire.

Essential Knowledge
The Mongols

· Nomadic herders

· Genghis Khan

· Golden Horde

· Mongols converted to local religions, such as Islam, after conquest

Mongol armies

· Invaded Russia, China, and Muslim states in Southwest Asia, destroying cities and countryside

· Created an empire