Angkor

Definition

Angkor was the capital city of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th century, known for its grand temples, sophisticated water management systems, and urban planning. This sprawling metropolis reflects the power and influence of the Khmer civilization and serves as a critical site for understanding the region's historical development, trade networks, and cultural practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Angkor was home to iconic structures like Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious monuments in the world, originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.
2. The city of Angkor was constructed with advanced engineering techniques, including a vast network of canals, reservoirs, and moats that supported its agricultural base.
3. At its height, Angkor had a population estimated between 750,000 to 1 million people, making it one of the largest urban centers in the pre-industrial world.
4. The decline of Angkor is attributed to various factors including environmental changes, over-exploitation of resources, and political instability.
5. Angkor's significance continues today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting researchers and tourists interested in its historical and cultural legacy.

Review Questions

• How did Angkor's urban planning and water management systems contribute to its status as a major center in Southeast Asia?
  • Angkor's urban planning featured an intricate layout with carefully designed streets, neighborhoods, and religious structures that reflected both aesthetic values and functional needs. The sophisticated water management system included canals and reservoirs that facilitated irrigation, ensuring agricultural productivity which supported a large population. This strategic integration of infrastructure helped Angkor thrive economically and socially, establishing it as a vital hub in Southeast Asia.
• Discuss the role of trade networks connected to Angkor in shaping its economy and influence in the region.
  • Angkor was strategically located near key trade routes connecting India and China, facilitating extensive commerce that enriched its economy. The city served as a marketplace for goods such as spices, textiles, and luxury items, fostering relationships with neighboring kingdoms. These trade networks not only contributed to Angkor's wealth but also facilitated cultural exchanges that influenced art, religion, and architecture throughout Southeast Asia.
• Evaluate the impact of environmental factors on the rise and decline of Angkor as a significant urban center.
  • Environmental factors played a crucial role in both the rise and fall of Angkor. The city’s advanced hydraulic engineering allowed for effective irrigation during periods of sufficient rainfall, boosting agricultural output. However, over time, changing climate conditions, including droughts and flooding, strained these systems. This environmental stress, combined with socio-political challenges like invasions and internal strife, ultimately led to Angkor's decline as a major urban center.

Related terms

Khmer Empire: A powerful Southeast Asian empire that dominated the region from the 9th to the 15th centuries, known for its architectural achievements and extensive irrigation systems.

Bayon Temple: A famous temple in Angkor known for its large stone faces and intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes of daily life and historical events during the Khmer Empire.

Moat: A water-filled ditch surrounding Angkor's temples and urban areas, serving both as a defense mechanism and as part of the sophisticated water management system.