Essential Understandings

Japanese cultural development was influenced by proximity to China.

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

Essential Knowledge

· 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

· 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