Reflection
Completion requirements
Opened: Sunday, 16 November 2025, 9:00 AM
Task:
Using information from the chart and sources, write a short comparative paragraph (5–6 sentences):
Compare one Afro-Eurasian state (Song, Delhi Sultanate, or Mali) with one American state (Aztec or Inca) in terms of how each established and maintained authority between 1200–1450.
Guiding prompt:
What role did religion play?
How was power organized?
How did geography influence their systems?
| Region | Example State | Basis of Power | Method of Governance | Source of Legitimacy | Notable Innovation |
| East Asia | Song Dynasty | Bureaucracy, taxation | Merit-based civil service exams | Mandate of Heaven | Gunpowder, paper currency |
| South Asia | Delhi Sultanate | Military conquest | Islamic administration over Hindu subjects | Religious law and taxation | Indo-Islamic cultural fusion |
| Africa | Mali Empire | Control of trade routes | Tributary system, Islamic advisors | Wealth and justice | Expansion of Islam via trade |
| Europe | Holy Roman Empire | Feudal relationships | Decentralized monarchy | Christian Church | Blend of feudal and religious authority |
| Americas | Aztec / Inca | Tribute and labor | Militarized tribute states | Religious rituals and divine kingship | Road networks, record-keeping (quipu) |