About Unit 4

💭 Essential Question: How did empires in Africa and Asia rise to power and govern complex societies during their golden ages?

The Golden Ages of Africa and Asia unit explores how early complex societies in Africa and Asia developed into influential empires. Building on prior knowledge of early civilizations, students will examine how trade, governance, culture, and belief systems contributed to the rise and legacy of empires such as Carthage, the Kingdom of Aksum, the Han Dynasty, and the Maurya and Gupta Empires. Through case studies, students will analyze textual, archaeological, and artistic evidence—including inscriptions, coins, and artifacts from museums like the National Museum of Asian Art—to understand how geography, technology, political systems, and religion shaped these societies. The unit culminates in a structured peer discussion, where students will construct evidence-based arguments about the historical significance and impact of these civilizations.