Key Concepts in History, Politics, and Society

Cold War

The Cold War was an ideological confrontation between the capitalist West, led by the United States, and the communist East, led by the Soviet Union. This conflict spanned the latter half of the 20th century, from 1945 until the dissolution of the USSR and the fall of communism between 1989 and 1991.

Globalization

Globalization is a large-scale process characterized by growing communication and interdependence among the world's countries. This process unifies nations through a series of transformations, giving them a global character.

Autonomous Region (Spain)

Within Spain's constitutional system, an autonomous region is a territorial entity with its own legislative and executive powers, exercised by its elected representatives.

Gender Violence

Gender violence, often referred to as domestic violence or intimate partner violence, encompasses physical and psychological abuse inflicted by one person upon their partner or spouse.

Democracy

Democracy is a form of social organization where power resides in all members of the group. Decisions are made to reflect the collective will of the group's members.

Intensive Agricultural Exploitation

Intensive agriculture involves cultivating relatively small areas of land to achieve high yields. This type of farming is usually associated with specific crops and high crop rotation throughout the year. For example, a wheat field would be considered traditional extensive farming, while an orchard producing various vegetable crops year-round would be an example of intensive exploitation.

Suburb

Historically, a suburb was a group of homes and businesses, often associated with lower social classes, located outside of a city. This term has its roots in the Middle Ages.

Souk

A souk is the Spanish term for a traditional market in Arab countries, especially those held outdoors.

Alcázar

An alcázar is a fortified castle or palace.

Medina

Medina is a city in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia.

Al-Andalus Society

• The Arab aristocracy, divided into clans, was a minority that held ownership of the best lands and high government positions. Syrians joined their ranks after 741.
• The native Berbers of North Africa were often left with less desirable land and livestock grazing, leading to frequent conflicts with the Arabs.
• The Muladíes, newly converted Hispanic Muslims, occupied a lower social position. While conversion to Islam wasn't mandatory, it offered a path to social advancement.