Angkor Civilization

Definition

The Angkor Civilization was a powerful and sophisticated society that flourished in Southeast Asia, particularly in present-day Cambodia, from the 9th to the 15th century. It is renowned for its impressive architectural achievements, most notably the temple complex of Angkor Wat, which reflects the civilization's advancements in engineering, art, and religion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Angkor Civilization began with King Jayavarman II's establishment of the Khmer Empire in 802 AD and reached its peak during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the 12th century.
2. Angkor Wat, initially built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, later transformed into a Buddhist temple and stands as a symbol of Cambodian national pride.
3. The civilization developed an extensive hydraulic system, including canals and reservoirs, which facilitated agriculture and water management, crucial for sustaining its population.
4. Angkor's architecture features intricate carvings and bas-reliefs that depict Hindu mythology, showcasing the civilization's artistic achievements and religious devotion.
5. By the 15th century, factors such as environmental changes, resource depletion, and political instability led to the decline of the Angkor Civilization, resulting in its eventual abandonment.

Review Questions

• What were the key achievements of the Angkor Civilization in terms of architecture and engineering?
  • The Angkor Civilization is celebrated for its monumental architectural achievements, most notably Angkor Wat, which exemplifies advanced engineering techniques of its time. The construction of massive temple complexes and intricate water management systems demonstrates their expertise in architecture and hydraulic engineering. These structures not only served religious purposes but also reflected the society's cultural values and technological innovations.
• Discuss the influence of Brahmanism on the cultural and religious practices of the Angkor Civilization.
  • Brahmanism significantly influenced the cultural and religious landscape of the Angkor Civilization by introducing Hindu beliefs and practices that shaped their spiritual life. Many temples were dedicated to Hindu deities, particularly during the early period of Angkor's history. Over time, as Buddhism gained prominence in Southeast Asia, the religious landscape evolved to incorporate Buddhist elements while still retaining core Hindu traditions, showcasing a unique blend of influences.
• Evaluate how environmental factors contributed to both the success and decline of the Angkor Civilization.
  • Environmental factors played a crucial role in shaping both the prosperity and eventual decline of the Angkor Civilization. The advanced irrigation systems allowed for sustainable rice cultivation, supporting a large population and economic growth. However, over time, changes in climate, such as droughts or floods, alongside deforestation and resource depletion from agricultural practices, stressed these systems. This environmental degradation led to reduced agricultural yields and weakened social stability, ultimately contributing to the civilization's decline by the 15th century.

Related terms

Khmer Empire: A historical empire in Southeast Asia that was centered in the region of present-day Cambodia, known for its monumental architecture and extensive trade networks.

Brahmanism: A religious tradition rooted in ancient Indian beliefs that significantly influenced the spiritual practices and culture of the Angkor Civilization.

Rice Cultivation: The agricultural practice that was foundational to the Angkor Civilization's economy and supported its large population, involving advanced irrigation techniques.