Identify two reasons why a Golden Age occurred in: Athens, Rome (Pax Romana), the Gupta Empire (India), or the Abbasid Caliphate.
Two reasons why a Golden Age occurred in the Abbasid Caliphate are:
1) Cultural and intellectual advancements: The Abbasid Caliphate embraced and promoted learning, knowledge, and art. The House of Wisdom, established in the capital city of Baghdad, became a renowned center for scholars and intellectuals to translate, study, and preserve ancient Greek, Roman, and Persian texts, as well as invent new forms of literature and poetry. This intellectual climate led to great advancements in various fields, including mathematics, astronomy, medicine, philosophy, and literature.
2) Economic prosperity and trade: The Abbasid Caliphate benefited from its strategic location along major trade routes, connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. The caliphs encouraged trade and commerce, leading to economic prosperity and the development of vibrant markets. The stability of the empire allowed for the growth and expansion of trade networks, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and innovation across vast regions. This trade-driven economy contributed to the wealth and prosperity of the Abbasid Caliphate and enabled the cultivation of a Golden Age.