How did the the Khmer civilization shape culture in Southeast Asia? Select all that apply.
A.
innovated a feudal system based on the loyalty of samurai warriors
B.
developed writing systems that spread throughout Asia++
C.
used irrigation canals and reservoirs to support large-scale rice farming
D.
introduced Islam via Indian Ocean trade routes
E.
built vast Buddhist temple complexes
The correct options are B and C:
B. Developed writing systems that spread throughout Asia: The Khmer civilization developed its own writing system known as Khmer script. This script was based on the Indian Brahmi script and was used to write the Khmer language. The writing system spread to other parts of Southeast Asia and influenced the development of scripts in neighboring countries.
C. Used irrigation canals and reservoirs to support large-scale rice farming: The Khmer civilization developed sophisticated irrigation systems, including canals and reservoirs, to support large-scale rice farming. This allowed them to sustain a high population density and develop a prosperous agricultural economy.
The other options are incorrect:
A. The Khmer civilization did not innovate a feudal system based on the loyalty of samurai warriors. This statement is more relevant to ancient Japan.
D. The Khmer civilization did not introduce Islam via Indian Ocean trade routes. Islam was introduced to Southeast Asia by Arab and Indian traders, and it spread through the region through a long process of cultural interaction, conversion, and adoption.
E. The Khmer civilization did build vast Buddhist temple complexes, most notably the famous Angkor Wat. However, although this influenced the religious and architectural landscape of Southeast Asia, it did not shape culture in the same way as the development of writing systems and the use of irrigation for rice farming.
To determine how the Khmer civilization shaped culture in Southeast Asia, we need to analyze each option and select the ones that apply.
A. The innovation of a feudal system based on the loyalty of samurai warriors cannot be attributed to the Khmer civilization. This option is not applicable.
B. The Khmer civilization did develop writing systems that spread throughout Asia. These systems, such as the Khmer script, influenced the development of writing in neighboring regions. Therefore, this option applies.
C. The Khmer civilization indeed used irrigation canals and reservoirs to support large-scale rice farming. This agricultural practice helped sustain their population and influenced the agricultural techniques of neighboring societies. This option applies.
D. The introduction of Islam via Indian Ocean trade routes is not a contribution of the Khmer civilization. This option is not applicable.
E. The Khmer civilization built vast Buddhist temple complexes, including the iconic Angkor Wat. These temple complexes represented a significant contribution to the spread of Buddhism in Southeast Asia. Therefore, this option applies.
In summary, the options that apply to how the Khmer civilization shaped culture in Southeast Asia are:
- Developed writing systems that spread throughout Asia
- Used irrigation canals and reservoirs to support large-scale rice farming
- Built vast Buddhist temple complexes