Post-classical history

Lore & Background

The post-classical period saw the expansion and growth of civilization into new geographic areas across Asia, Africa, Europe, Mesoamerica, and western South America. In Asia and the Middle East, the spread of Islam helped produce a series of caliphates fostering the Islamic Golden Age, with advances in science and greater trade. East Asia experienced the entrenchment of Imperial China, whose dynastic governance and culture influenced Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, while Buddhism and neo-Confucianism spread. Christianity became entrenched in Europe. Gunpowder was developed in China during this era.

Reader's Guide

The post-classical period is significant as a framework for understanding global history between the classical and early modern eras. It highlights common themes such as the expansion of civilizations, the rise of missionary religions (Buddhism, Christianity, Islam), and the growth of interconnected trade networks, including the Mongol Empire's facilitation of exchange across Europe and Asia. Historians note that a truly global history of this period is still wanting, with research focused mainly on Afro-Eurasia, while understanding of sub-Saharan Africa, the Americas, and Oceania remains limited. The term itself is debated, as it may be Eurocentric, but it remains a useful periodization for world history.

Did You Know?

• The post-classical period is also called the medieval era, post-antiquity era, post-ancient era, or pre-modern era.
• The Mongol Empire conquered and controlled much of Europe and Asia, permitting more trade and cultural exchange.
• Gunpowder was developed in China during the post-classical era.