Illustrative Examples are specific topics chosen by College Board to represent certain historical developments. For example, knowing that Asian states adopted restrictive or isolationist trade policies relates directly to the historical development "Some Asian states sought to limit the disruptive economic and cultural efects of European-dominated long-distance trade by adopting restrictive or isolationist trade policies." in topic 4.4. (KC-4.3.II.A.i) 

According to College Board, "These include possible examples of content that might be used to teach the historical development, process, or event. These are intended as examples and do not in any way constitute additional, preferred, or required information."

If you learn these specific examples, you will be better able to demonstrate your skills and understanding of the course content.

These are further identified with the themes of AP World History. See the Course Info page if you need to know what they all are!