Cross Topical: Question 1 of 41
In the Ancient Kingdom of Mali and in the Roman Republic, an
important feature of life was the development of
1. codified laws 2. social and political equality 3. the Islamic religion 4. agricultural communes
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The Twelve Tables of Law from Rome and the
establishment of codified law by Mansa Musa in Mali were both
important developments in these societies.
Cross Topical: Question 2 of 41
Which statement best explains the periods of the Gupta Empire of
India, the Golden Age of Greece, and the Renaissance in Italy?
1. the winning of a war often inspires scientific and artistic achievement
2. a combination of wealth and a time of relative peace often leads to cultural achievement
3. a dictatorship usually encourages cultural growth and development
4. periods of censorship are needed for a nation to achieve cultural and scientific greatness
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Times of peace allow societies to create great works
and trade with their neighbors. This trade usually results in the
accumulation of wealth and the exchange of ideas which allows for
the development and adoption of new innovations.
Cross Topical: Question 3 of 41
One way in which Medieval European society, Latin American
colonial society, and society in Imperial China were similar is that
each
1. placed great value on public education 2. experienced a surplus of skilled labor 3. was organized according to a rigid class structure 4. de-emphasized the role of religion
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: All of these societies were contained rigid class
structures that were nearly impossible to circumvent.
Cross Topical: Question 4 of 41
Which idea did Napoleon Bonaparte, Sun Yat-Sen, and Simone
Bolivar have in common?
1. divine right 2. nationalism 3. totalitarianism 4. nonviolence
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Each of these men caused nationalism to develop in
their respective country or region; Napoleon in early 1800s France, Bolivar in early 1800s Latin America, and Sun Yat-Sen in early 1900s China.
Cross Topical: Question 5 of 41
Eighteenth-century Russia and nineteenth-century Japan were
similar in that both countries
1. began the process of modernization after a long period of isolation
2. developed democratic governments after years under absolute monarchies
3. refused to accept western technological ideas 4. adopted socialist economic systems after capitalism had
failed
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Throughout the 1700s, both Peter the Great and Catherine the Great did much to modernize Russia by adopting
ideas from the European Renaissance from which Russia had been
isolated. Similarly, the Japanese Meiji Restoration rapidly
industrialized Japan after the American Commodore Matthew Perry
displayed industrial military power to convince the Japanese to open
their ports to trade.
Cross Topical: Question 6 of 41
Until the 1500s, China and Japan were similar in that both
1. were invaded by the Mongols 2. welcomed Christian Missionaries 3. had little contact with Western European nations 4. were developing democratic traditions
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Both China and Japan practiced isolationism until the
1500s when Christian missionaries from Europe entered both countries.
Cross Topical: Question 7 of 41
During the Middle Ages, Europeans did not eat potatoes or corn
because these vegetables
1. were forbidden by the Catholic Church for religious reasons 2. had not yet been introduced to Europe from the New World 3. were believed to be poisonous 4. were too expensive to import from China
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Potatoes and corn were brought to Europe by
explorers returning from the Americas during the Age of
Exploration which came after the Middle Ages.
Cross Topical: Question 8 of 41
One way in which Medieval European society, Latin American
colonial society, and society in Imperial China were similar is that
each
1. placed great value on public education 2. experienced a surplus of skilled labor 3. was organized according to a rigid class structure 4. de-emphasized the role of religion
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: All three of these societies had rigid class structures
in which one was born into their social status with very few
opportunities to advance socially.
Cross Topical: Question 9 of 41
The societies of traditional China, Feudal Japan, and Czarist Russia
were all characterized by
1. a rigid class structure 2. much interaction with other cultures 3. great economic change 4. rapidly changing social values
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: All three of these societies had rigid class structures
in which one was born into their social status with very few
opportunities to advance socially.
Cross Topical: Question 10 of 41
One similarity between the decline of the Roman Empire and the
fall of the Manchu Dynasty was that both initially led to
1. improved economic conditions 2. democratically elected governments 3. political chaos and decentralization of government 4. major accomplishments in art, science, and technology
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: After the Roman Empire fell in 476 CE, Europe was
plunged into an extended period of feudalism which lasted nearly
1,000 years. When the Mancu Dynasty fell in 1911, China was ruled
by local warlords until Mao Zedongs communist victory in 1949.
Cross Topical: Question 11 of 41
The Japanese feudal system and the Hindu caste system are similar
in that both systems
1. promoted social mobility 2. developed a rigid class structure 3. encouraged the people to take part in government 4. resulted in economic opportunities for the lower classes
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Both of these societies had rigid class structures in
which one was born into their social status with very few
opportunities to advance socially.
Cross Topical: Question 12 of 41
Eighteenth-century Russia and nineteenth-century Japan were
similar in that both countries
1. began the process of modernization after a long period of isolation
2. developed democratic governments after years under absolute monarchies
3. refused to accept western technological ideas 4. adopted socialist economic systems after capitalism had
failed
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Because of geographic isolation, Russia did not take
part in the European Renaissance and did not begin to modernize
until the reigns of Peter the Great and Catherine the Great in the
1700s. Japan refused to allow European trade beginning in 1639. This foreign policy made it impossible for the Japanese to take part
in the Industrial Revolution which started in Europe. Japans rapid industrialization began with the Meiji Restoration in 1868.
Cross Topical: Question 13 of 41
Changes in Russia under Peter the Great were most similar to
changes that occurred in
1. China before the Opium War 2. Japan during the Meiji Restoration 3. Iran after the fall of Shah Pahlevi 4. France during the feudal period
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Because of geographic isolation, Russia did not take
part in the European Renaissance and did not begin to modernize
until the reigns of Peter the Great and Catherine the Great in the
1700s. Japan refused to allow European trade beginning in 1639. This foreign policy made it impossible for the Japanese to take part
in the Industrial Revolution which started in Europe. Japans rapid industrialization began with the Meiji Restoration in 1868.
Cross Topical: Question 14 of 41
The Tamils in Sri Lanka, the Sikhs in India, and the Zulus in South
Africa have all attempted to
1. establish colonies in Asia 2. practice passive resistance 3. achieve political separatism 4. encourage mercantilism
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: As independence swept across the former European
colonies, many minority groups within these new nations sought
independence for themselves. This has led to turmoil and violence.
Cross Topical: Question 15 of 41
Which was characteristic of France under Napoleons rule and Germany under Hitlers rule?
1. democratic ideas and diversity were encouraged 2. authoritarian control and a strong sense of nationalism
prevailed
3. peaceful relations with neighboring countries wee fostered 4. artistic and literary freedom flourished
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Both Hitler and Napoleon encouraged nationalism
among their citizens, while retaining absolute control of the
government.
Cross Topical: Question 16 of 41
A study of the French Revolution and the Russian Revolution of
1917 would lead to the conclusion that
1. revolutions only occur when a majority of citizens become directly involved
2. university students are most often responsible for starting revolutions
3. control of revolutions often shifts from moderates to radicals 4. revolutions seldom result in long-term changes
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Both revolutions went through a moderate phase
before coming under control of a more radical element. The radical
phase of a revolution is generally characterized by widespread
violence.
Cross Topical: Question 17 of 41
The French Revolution, the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, and the
Communist Revolution in China were similar in that all three
1. brought about few political changes 2. were influenced by the peasants desire for more land 3. were inspired by Marxism 4. were supported primarily by the nobility
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: All three revolutions were successful due to
enormous support of the peasant class. Peasants in each nation
supported the revolution in hopes of gaining land for farming and
habitation.
Cross Topical: Question 18 of 41
The ancient Greek city-state of Sparta and the Soviet Union under
Stalin were similar in that both societies
1. were primarily concerned with the health of their people 2. were powerful military states 3. granted universal suffrage to their people 4. placed great emphasis on literature and the arts
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Both Sparta and the Soviet Union under Stalin had
government systems that attempted to control all aspects of the lives
of their citizens. Both maintained this control through the use of a
strong military.
Cross Topical: Question 19 of 41
In China, the building of the Great Wall, the use of the tribute
system, and the governments support of the Boxer Rebellion are examples of attempts by different dynasties to limit
1. foreign influence 2. nationalism 3. communist expansion 4. industrialization
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: China has maintained a policy of cultural
isolationism. They have used various tools to limit incoming
cultural diffusion.
Cross Topical: Question 20 of 41
The French Revolution of 1789 and the Cuban Revolution of 1959
were similar in that both were caused primarily by the
1. desire of the people to be free from foreign rule 2. pressure of religious leaders for government reform 3. failure of the government to meet the needs of the people 4. ambition of the upper class to attain wealth and property
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The French Revolution started because the
government was unresponsive to the problems of the majority of the
people, such as poverty and hunger. The Cuban Revolution, started
by Fidel Castro, was a response to the oppressive and corrupt
government of Fulgencio Batista.
Cross Topical: Question 21 of 41
The philosophies of Confucius and Mao Zedong both emphasized
1. individual rather than cooperative gain 2. industry rather than agriculture 3. group rather than individual welfare 4. religious values rather than economic profits
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Both Confucius and Mao Zedong promoted the idea
of group welfare above individual desire.
Cross Topical: Question 22 of 41
Japan during the Meiji Restoration was similar to Japan after World
War II in that during these periods Japan
1. pursued a foreign policy of isolationism and limited political freedoms
2. reduced the powers of the Emperor and the nobility 3. underwent political reform and economic expansion 4. was ruled by dictators and the military
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Both time periods represent a radical change in
government, followed by an economic boom.
Cross Topical: Question 23 of 41
Since the late 1940s, India, Northern Ireland, and Israel have faced the common problem of
1. adjusting to a post-Communist political and economic system
2. continued violent confrontations between different religious groups
3. economic depression as a result of rapid industrialization 4. uncertainty of their acceptance by the European Community
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: All three nations are inhabited by diverse ethnic and
religious groups. This has led to violence repeatedly since the
1940s.
Cross Topical: Question 24 of 41
The events that led to the overthrow of Czar Nicholas II in 1917 and
to the forced resignation of Mikhail Gorbachev in 1991 show that
1. economic crises often lead to political change 2. Russian absolutism continued into the 1990s 3. international conflicts often strengthen the power of leaders 4. Russia is an ethnically unified nation
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Russia was facing severe economic problems in both
time periods. This type of problem often results in a change in
government.
Cross Topical: Question 25 of 41
Events in both Eastern Europe in the early 1900s and in the Soviet Union in the late 1980s were mainly the result of
1. movements toward the repression of individual rights 2. declines in the use of advanced technology 3. the influence of religion on government
4. challenges by ethnic groups desiring independence
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union are
inhabited by diverse ethnic and religious groups. This has led to
violence in the past as each group sought autonomy and self
determination.
Cross Topical: Question 26 of 41
During the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Soviet Union experienced ethnic tensions that were most similar to those
experienced by
1. Japan in the early 17th century 2. Austria-Hungary in the late 19th century 3. Spain in the mid-18th century 4. Cuba in the late 20th century
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: The former Soviet Union and the old Austria-
Hungary Empire were inhabited by diverse ethnic and religious
groups. This often led to violence in the past as each group sought
independence and self determination.
Cross Topical: Question 27 of 41
The Holocaust in Europe and the actions of the Khmer Rouge in
Kampuchea (Cambodia) were similar in that they were examples of
1. Interdependence 2. Segregation 3. Genocide 4. Empathy
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The Holocaust was the systematic murder of the
Jewish population in Europe by the Nazis. The Khmer Rouge also
practiced a policy of genocide, killing millions in Cambodia during
the 1970s.
Cross Topical: Question 28 of 41
One similarity between Mao Zedong and Fidel Castro is that they
1. achieved their goals through the use of peaceful resistance 2. worked to protect citizens rights to freedom of expression 3. considered capitalism to be the best economic system 4. led revolutionary movements that established communist
governments
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Mao Zedong led a revolution in the 1930s and 1940s which established a communist government in China. The revolution, started by Fidel Castro, established communism in Cuba
in 1959. Both communist governments exist today.
Cross Topical: Question 29 of 41
Germany Will Make Reparations For WWI OPEC Supports Oil Embargo Against Western Nations UN Imposes Sanctions on Iraq
Which conclusion can be drawn from these headlines?
1. economic measures are often designed to achieve political goals
2. communism as an economic system has failed 3. economic policies are often formulated to encourage
investment
4. nationalism plays a small role in economic decisionmaking
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The use of economic sanctions has been a effective
political tool for many nations.
Cross Topical: Question 30 of 41
A study of the policy of ethnic cleansing in Bosnia and the Holocaust in Europe would suggest that
1. world opinion is effective in stopping genocide 2. countries generally use reason and negotiation in dealing
with important ethnic issues
3. anti-Semitism and ethnic hatred remain powerful forces in the 20th century
4. military leaders cannot be held responsible for acts committed during wartime
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Intolerance of other ethnic and religious groups has
led to devastating violence in the 20th century. This continues to be
a problem today, as evidenced by recent events in Bosnia and
Rwanda.
Cross Topical: Question 31 of 41
Which factor has most limited the development of national unity in
India, Lebanon, and Bosnia-Herzegovina?
1. lack of natural resources 2. inability to end colonialism 3. religious and ethnic differences 4. rapid growth of industry
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: All three regions are inhabited by diverse ethnic and
religious groups. This has limited the development of national unity
in these areas, and has often led to violence.
Cross Topical: Question 32 of 41
Both the Chinese Mandate of Heaven and the Japanese belief that
the Emperor descends from the Sun Goddess are similar to the
1. master race theory of Adolf Hitlers Third Reich 2. natural rights theory of the Age of Reason 3. divine right theory of the French monarchy 4. Marxist theory of a workers revolution
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The Chinese Mandate of Heaven and the Japanese
belief in the divinity of its Emperor are most similar to Frances divine right theory, which states that a King rules by right of being
chosen by God.
Cross Topical: Question 33 of 41
One way in which the caste system and apartheid were similar is
that both
1. described specific religious practices and beliefs 2. supported a rigid class structure 3. were created by British colonial governments 4. gave power to the lower classes in their respective societies
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: The Hindu Caste system divided society up into many
castes, each with its own rights and duties. Apartheid divided South
African society between whites and blacks. Black South Africans
enjoyed fewer rights and faced constant discrimination and
segregation.
Cross Topical: Question 34 of 41
Within their respective nations, both Ho Chi Minh and Fidel Castro
achieved their goals by
1. seeking aid and support from the European Union 2. using armed conflict to bring a communist government to
power
3. following a policy of nonalignment 4. working to build a capitalist system
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Ho Chi Minh led the violent revolution that created a
communist regime in Vietnam. Fidel Castro was the leader of a
communist revolution in Cuba.
Cross Topical: Question 35 of 41
One way in which the Meiji Restoration in Japan and the Golden
Age of India are similar is that in each region these events led to
1. the persecution of minority peoples 2. periods of rapid change 3. the rise of feudalism as the dominant political system 4. governments ruled by absolute monarchs
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: The Meiji Restoration in Japan resulted in a radical
change in government, and the rapid industrialization of the country.
The Golden Age of India under the Gupta regime brought many
advancements in such areas as science and technology.
Cross Topical: Question 36 of 41
The Sepoy Rebellion in India and the Boxer Rebellion in China
were similar in that both were
1. attempts to improve foreign trade 2. nonviolent resistance efforts 3. revolts against foreign influence 4. revolutions against traditional monarchs
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The Sepoy Rebellion was a revolt against British
authority in India. The Boxer Rebellion was a similar revolt against
British imperialist policy in China.
Cross Topical: Question 37 of 41
Suleiman held complete religious and political power. Charles I
stormed the English Parliament. Peter the Great expanded serfdom
in Russia. The actions of these leaders reflect the concept of
1. scientific theory 2. natural rights 3. mercantilism
4. absolutism
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Suleiman, Charles I of England, and Peter the Great
of Russia all were absolute rulers. This term is defined as a ruler that
has complete control over both government and society in their
country.
Cross Topical: Question 38 of 41
What would a study of the recent civil wars in Cambodia, Bosnia-
Herzegovina, and Rwanda show about these conflicts?
1. Ethnic conflict was not a factor in the late 20th century. 2. The United Nations was successful in resolving these
disputes.
3. Genocide was used as a political and military tactic. 4. Civilians were not affected by these disputes.
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Genocide was a tool used in all three countrys civil wars. This resulted in the death of millions, and worldwide concern
over the use of such tactics.
Cross Topical: Question 39 of 41
A similarity of the goals of Nelson Mandela and Mohandas Gandhi
is that both leaders wanted to
1. secure political power for the majority of the people 2. encourage a greater degree of industrialization 3. improve the economy by expanding governmental control 4. gain independence from the Soviet Union
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Nelson Mandela fought to give rights to black South
Africans, the majority population, while Gandhi worked toward
ending British domination of India and restoring control back to the
majority natives.
Cross Topical: Question 40 of 41
Statement 1: This organization is created for the purpose of realizing the national ideal: the union of all Serbs.
Bylaws of the Black Hand
Statement 2: . . . people . . . would think themselves happier even under their bad government than they might be under the good
government of a foreign power.
Mohandas Gandhi,adapted from Indian Opinion, 1905
Statement 3:. . . above all, we want Germany to be considered one land and the German people one people.
Heinrich von Gagern, The Call for German Unity
Statement 4: We ardently wish to free Italy from foreign rule. We agree that we must put aside all petty differences in order to gain
this most important goal. We wish to drive out the foreigners not
only because we want to see our country powerful and glorious, but
also because we want to elevate the Italian people in intelligence
and moral development.
Count Camillo di Cavour, 18101861
Which idea is expressed by all the statements?
1. War is a means of achieving national policies. 2. Industrial growth is critical to a countrys prosperity. 3. Social class differences are the source of all conflicts. 4. Self-determination of the people is an important goal.
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Various movements throughout history have been
aimed at removing foreign control from a country. This is evidenced
by the examples listed above.
Cross Topical: Question 41 of 41
One way in which Simn Bolvar, Jomo Kenyatta, and Ho Chi Minh
are similar is that each leader
1. sought independence from colonial rule 2. ruled during a period of peace and prosperity 3. demanded human rights for all citizens 4. established a totalitarian government
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Simon Bolivar was an independence leader in Latin
America, Jomo Kenyatta did the same for Kenya, and Ho Chi Minh
in Vietnam.
History: Question 1 of 3
Which document is an example of a primary source?
1. a textbook on Russian history 2. an encyclopedia article on religions of the Middle East 3. a novel on the Age of Exploration 4. the diary of a survivor of a Nazi death camp
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: A primary source is firsthand information about
people or events of the past, such as that found in a diary or a legal
document.
History: Question 2 of 3
Which historical events are in the correct chronological order?
1. Crusades -> Renaissance -> Neolithic Revolution -> Roman Empire
2. Roman Empire -> Neolithic Revolution -> Crusades -> Renaissance
3. Renaissance ->Neolithic Revolution -> Crusades -> Roman Empire
4. Neolithic Revolution -> Roman Empire -> Crusades -> Renaissance
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: The Neolithic Revolution caused the development of
agriculture and allowed humans to settle for the first time. The
Roman Empire was was one of the most expanisve human
civilizations ever recorded, but ended when tribes from Northern
Europe invaded and finally took over Rome. Pope Urban II then
launched the Crusades to kill all Muslims living in the Holy Land.
This encouraged cultural diffusion which led to the rebirth of
Europe, known as the Renaissance.
History: Question 3 of 3
The United Nations Declaration of Human Rights Article from Mohandas Gandhis Indian Opinion Excerpt from the letters of Catherine the Great
These three documents are considered
1. secondary sources 2. examples of oral traditions 3. primary sources 4. statements of different religious beliefs
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: A primary source is firsthand information about
people or events of the past, such as that found in a diary or a legal
document.
Geography: Question 1 of 31
Which statement best explains why most of the population of the
peoples Republic of China live in the eastern third of the nation?
1. best agricultural land is in the East 2. largest forests are in the East 3. best fishing areas are off the eastern coast 4. largest oil deposits are in the East
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The coastal region of China contain the best
agricultural lands as well as access to the Pacific Ocean, making it
much easier to live on than the interior of the country which is
dominated by deserts and other harsh geographic features.
Geography: Question 2 of 31
Which is an accurate statement about Japans natural resources?
1. Japan has extensively used the seas for fishing 2. large reserves of petroleum are located in the northern part
of Japan
3. Japan has large fertile plains suitable for growing grain 4. large coal and iron-ore deposits are located in the mountain
region
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The Japanese archipelago has very limited natural
resources. By far, the most abundant natural resources available to
the Japanese is that which can be harvested from the surrounding
ocean.
Geography: Question 3 of 31
In Japan, a major economic problem has been the lack of
1. natural resources 2. investment capital 3. skilled labor 4. experienced management
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The Japanese archipelago has very limited natural
resources, which is the primary barrier to economic development
there.
Geography: Question 4 of 31
Which statement best describes an effect that geography has had on
Japan?
1. Japans smooth coastline has prevented the development of a fishing industry
2. Japans large plains have made wheat growing a primary industry
3. the lack of important natural resources has led Japan to
depend on trade with other nations
4. the location of Japan has encouraged great ethnic diversity within the nation
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Besides what is available from the sea, there are very
few natural resources available to Japan. Japanese manufacturing is
heavily dependent on importing natrual resources which are then
converted into products such as automobiles, electronics, and steel.
Geography: Question 5 of 31
Both Japan and Indonesia are made up of a chain of islands called
1. an archipelago 2. a peninsula 3. a delta 4. an atoll
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: An archipelago is defined as a chain of islands, which
describes Japan and Indonesia perfectly.
Geography: Question 6 of 31
The term Latin America most accurately refers to the
1. areas of the Western Hemisphere south of the United States 2. countries that belong to the Organization of American States 3. continents of North and South America 4. countries that have close economic ties with Spain
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The term Latin America refers to the cultural region south of the United States. During the 1500s,Central and
South America were taken over by Spain and Portugal, and as a
result Spanish and Portuguese are the dominant languages and
Roman Catholicism is practiced by most of the people living there
today.
Geography: Question 7 of 31
Which generalization about geography of Latin America is
accurate?
1. geographic features prevented foreign imperialism 2. harsh climatic conditions have prevented the development of
large-scale agriculture
3. the lack of geographic barriers facilitated the development of transportation and communication systems
4. great variations in latitude and landforms resulted in a diversity of climates
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Latin America stretches from the Rio Grande River,
continues past the Equator, and finally ends just north of Antarctica.
Latin America also contains a variety of landforms including the
Andes Mountains, the Amazon River Basin, Brazilian Highlands,
and various deserts. Due to the variations in latitude and landforms,
Latin America contains several different types of climate such as
humid sub-tropical, humid continental, as well as dry desert regions.
Geography: Question 8 of 31
Which geographic factor has had the most influence on Poland's
historical and cultural development?
1. a severe climate 2. vast deposits of oil 3. location on the great European Plain 4. a rugged coastline
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Throughout history, Poland has been an invasion
route for invading armies entering and leaving Europe because its
location on the great European Plain provides is easier to get
through than treading over highlands or mountains.
Geography: Question 9 of 31
Which of these nations is located closet to the Philippines, Malaysia,
and Indonesia?
1. Korea 2. Vietnam 3. Somalia 4. Pakistan
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: While Korea and Vietnam are both located in
Southeast Asia, Vietnam is much closer to the Philippines,
Malaysia, and Indonesia. Somalia is located on the Horn of Africa,
and Pakistan is located near India in South Asia.
Geography: Question 10 of 31
One effect that mountain ranges, rain forests, and river systems have
had on Latin America has been to
1. encourage cultural diffusion 2. limit the development of transportation and communication
systems
3. permit the nations of the area to use a single form of government
4. allow the development of large amounts of arable land
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: These natural resources have made it difficult to
develop transportation and communication systems because of the
costs associated with building infrastructure in areas with dense
vegetation, steep elevations, and rivers that are barely navigable.
Geography: Question 11 of 31
In addition to providing water for Indian agriculture, the Ganges
River remains important to India because it is
1. the only source of Indian hydroelectric power 2. a sacred river for the Hindu population 3. the birthplace of Hindu culture 4. an unofficial boundary between the Hindus and Muslims
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Bathing in the Ganges river is said to wash away sins,
and the river water is used in many religious rituals. Many Hindus
ask to be cremated along the Ganges and to have their ashes placed
in the river.
Geography: Question 12 of 31
An effect of a mountainous topography on Inca and Chinese
civilizations was the development of
1. industrialization 2. single-crop economy 3. desalinization projects 4. terrace farming
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Terrace farming allows crops to be grown on the
sides of elevated terrain. This agricultural practice was widespread
among the Inca in the Andes Mountains and the early Chinese.
Geography: Question 13 of 31
A major effect of geography on Japan is that the
1. export of oil has helped Japan maintain a favorable balance of trade
2. fertile plains have enabled Japan to keep food prices low 3. mountains have prevented invasions obey foreign nations 4. scarcity of natural resources has forced Japan to obtain raw
materials from other nations
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Japan has very few natural resources except the
surrounding seas. Therefore, Japan takes advantage of its irregular
coastline to promote trade with other countries. Raw materials are
imported to Japan, and then turned into consumer goods such as
automobiles and electronics, which are then exported to other
nations.
Geography: Question 14 of 31
Which geographic factor has most strongly influenced Russias foreign policies and economic development?
1. lack of natural resources 2. vast desert regions 3. limited access to warm-water ports 4. extensive mountain ranges
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Historically, Russia has been land-locked due to the
fact that much of its water access is located in the northern part of
the country and is frozen for most of the year. This makes trading
difficult because ships cannot get through these frozen waters
safely. Events such as the Crimean War, in which Russia sought to
gain control of the Dardanelles Strait between the Black and Aegean
Seas, illustrates how this geographic factor has influenced Russias foreign policies.
Geography: Question 15 of 31
Many people in Southeast Asia hope for the timely arrival of the
summer monsoons each year because
1. floods are the only way to water their farmlands 2. daily temperatures often reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit 3. little rain has fallen for many months 4. oases provide water for nomadic herders
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: In monsoon climates, moisture-bearing winds reverse
direction once a year, creating a distinct wet season and a dry
season. Thus, the people of Southeast Asia hope for the timely
arrival of these seasonal rains in order to provide water for their
crops.
Geography: Question 16 of 31
A topographical map would most likely be used to
1. identify the major agricultural products of Egypt 2. determine the population of Beijing, China 3. estimate the elevation of Bangkok, Thailand 4. count the number of provinces in India
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Topographical maps show the lay of the land, and
thus would be ideal for use in estimating the elevation of Bangkok,
Thailand.
Geography: Question 17 of 31
On a map of the world, Asia is to Japan as Europe is to
1. Great Britain 2. the Netherlands 3. Austria 4. Italy
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Asia is a continental landmass, and Japan is an island
that is found just off the coast of Asia. In this same way Europe is a
continental landmass and Great Britain is an island just off the coast
of Europe.
Geography: Question 18 of 31
The Russian steppe is most similar in topography to the
1. mountains in Switzerland 2. deserts in the Middle East 3. rainforests in South America 4. savannas in Africa
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: The savannas in Africa and steppes of Russia are both
described as vast grassy plains.
Geography: Question 19 of 31
Areas of Africa and parts of Siberia in Russia are often said to be
gems-in-the-rough because they have
1. extensive tracts of permanently frozen land 2. well-developed coastal fishing industries 3. many undeveloped natural resources 4. decreasing populations
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: These locations have immense reserves of
undeveloped natural resources which are difficult to cultivate due to
their problematic geography.
Geography: Question 20 of 31
In Africa, an effect of topography and climate has been to
1. encourage rapid industrialization of the interior 2. prevent the development of kingdoms 3. promote large-scale trade between African and Asia 4. promote the growth of diverse societies
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: The various topographical and climactic features of
Africa (e.g., Sahara Desert) have isolated cultures and promoted the
growth of diverse societies.
Geography: Question 21 of 31
The Suez Canal, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Strait of Gibraltar are
important because they
1. prevent attacks on bordering nations 2. control access to vital trade routes 3. limit Russian access to warm-water points 4. prohibit the movement of ships carrying nuclear weapons
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Each of these geographic features are examples of
strategic waterways from around the world. They are strategic
because they provide access to vital trade routes.
Geography: Question 22 of 31
Geographic diversity in the Middle East has contributed to
1. unequal standards of living 2. a common economic system 3. similar political systems 4. military alliances with Japan
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: While some nations in the Middle East have large
reserves of oil, others do not, and therefore have little of value to
trade with the rest of the world.
Geography: Question 23 of 31
The Suez Canal, the Panama Canal, and the Straits of the
Dardanelles are similar because they
1. are strategic waterways that have been the center of conflicts 2. was part of the French colonial empire 3. are located in regions that are rich in natural resources 4. prohibit the movement of ships carrying nuclear weapons
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Each of these geographic features are examples of
strategic waterways from around the world. They are strategic
because they provide access to vital trade routes.
Geography: Question 24 of 31
The map shows that the
1. economies of all the regions of China are developing at the same rate 2. distribution of income in China is unequal 3. economies of the interior provinces of China are developing faster than those of the
coastal provinces
4. economic development in China is dependent upon the cash crops of Xinjiang and Tibet
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: This map clearly shows that the distribution of income in China in unequal
because income tends to be greater near the coastline.
Geography: Question 25 of 31
One factor that accounted for Chinese influence on traditional
Japanese culture was the
1. continuous warfare between the countries 2. geographic location of the countries 3. refusal of western nations to trade with Japan 4. annexation of Japan into the Chinese Empire
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: The close proximity of China to Japan aided in
cultural diffusion between the two nations.
Geography: Question 26 of 31
Throughout the 1800s, Russia was interested in acquiring Turkey mainly because Russia wanted
1. to maintain peace in the Middle East 2. access to the Mediterranean Sea 3. to reestablish the Byzantine Empire 4. the rich farmland of the Anatolian Plateau
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Historically, Russia has been land-locked due to the
fact that much of its water access is located in the northern part of
the country and is frozen for most of the year. This makes trading
difficult because ships cannot get through these frozen waters
safely. Events such as the Crimean War, in which Russia sought to
gain control of the Dardanelles Strait held by Turkey and located
between the Black and Aegean Seas, illustrates how this geographic
factor has influenced Russias foreign policies.
Geography: Question 27 of 31
Which geographic factor has contributed most to the economic
growth of Japan, Egypt, and Great Britain?
1. variety of natural resources 2. reliable amount of rainfall 3. abundance of arable land
4. access to important waterways
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Access to important waterways, such as the Pacific
Ocean for Japan, the Nile River for Egypt, and the Atlantic Ocean
for Great Britain often leads to trade, an important factor in the
economic growth of these nations.
Geography: Question 28 of 31
In which way have the Andes Mountains and the Amazon rain
forest affected the development of Latin America?
1. promoting international unity 2. increasing cultural diversity 3. encouraging trade agreements 4. strengthening political alliances
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Mountains and rainforests often provide a barrier to
cultural diffusion. This allows civilizations to develop independent
of others, and sometimes creates a sense of ethnocentrism.
Geography: Question 29 of 31
Which geographic factor has helped China remain isolated for many
centuries?
1. many natural harbors 2. navigable river systems 3. severe climate 4. northern and western mountain ranges
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Mountains often provide a barrier to cultural
diffusion. This allows civilizations to develop independent of others,
and sometimes creates a sense of ethnocentrism.
Geography: Question 30 of 31
Which statement best describes an impact of topography on eastern
Europe?
1. Many different languages, religions, and customs developed. 2. A Russian czar ruled the area as a single empire. 3. An extensive single-crop agricultural system emerged. 4. Neighbors who were more powerful could not invade the
region.
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Various geographical features, such as, rivers,
mountains, and plains, can cause civilizations to develop differently
depending on their needs for survival.
Geography: Question 31 of 31
Which geographic factor was most important to the development of
the early river valley civilizations?
1. fertile soils 2. high mountains 3. vast deserts 4. smooth coastlines
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The fertile soils along the river valleys allowed the
early peoples to grow enough food to increase their population. This
in turn led to the creation of civilizations.
Economics: Question 1 of 20
Which factor contributes most to the recurring food shortages in
Africa?
1. poor distribution of agricultural products 2. extensive river systems 3. location between two major oceans 4. rainforest environment
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The poor distribution of agriculture resources causes
yearly food shortages in some parts of Africa.
Economics: Question 2 of 20
Which condition is a major obstacle to economic development in the
Middle East and Northern Africa
1. use of strip mining to obtain minerals 2. reliance on capitalist economic systems 3. lack of access to world markets 4. scarcity of water resources
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: The scarcity of water in these regions is a major
obstacle to economic development because it is essential for the
survival of humans and would be too costly to import.
Economics: Question 3 of 20
Singapore and Hong Kong have become major economic powers by
taking advantage of their
1. abundant mineral resources 2. imported cheap labor from Japan 3. profits from agricultural surpluses 4. favorable location on international trade routes
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: As coastal cities in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and
Singapore have become major economic powers by providing
services needed to facilitate trade.
Economics: Question 4 of 20
Throughout the 1800s, Russia was interested in acquiring Turkey mainly because Russia wanted
1. to maintain peace in the Middle East 2. access to the Mediterranean Sea 3. to reestablish the Byzantine Empire
4. the rich farmland of the Anatolian Plateau
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Russia was effectively land-locked because its only
access to ports was in arctic waters with ice that prevented shipping.
Thus, gaining warm-water ports has been a major influence on
Russian foreign policy because it would increase Russian trade.
Economics: Question 5 of 20
Which conclusion can be drawn from the information in the chart?
1. Developing countries are instituting programs to limit the growth of their populations.
2. Infant mortality is a greater problem in Africa than in Asia. 3. The nations with relatively low birthrates have relatively
high per capita incomes.
4. The national birthrate is determined by many different factors.
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The Iron Law of Wages states that a low population
will mean a higher income as labor resources are more valuable.
Economics: Question 6 of 20
A comparison of Japans policies before 1945 with the policies in effect after 1945 indicates that
1. reduction in spending on military goods leads to economic depression
2. dependence on foreign trade usually leads to a weakened national economy
3. territorial aggression is not necessary to secure national economic goals
4. democratic institutions hinder economic growth
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Japan has managed to build a thriving economy
without the need for the territorial acquisition policies they
exhibited before the end of World War II.
Economics: Question 7 of 20
A study of Japans economy since World War II would lead to the conclusion that
1. a. government support of technological advances can improve a nations economic position
2. a. imperialism is necessary form the economic development of a nation
3. a. a communist system leads to economic prosperity 4. a. the feudal system is more economically productive than
the market system
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The Japanese government is very supportive of
industry. This partnership between government and business has
worked to build a very strong economy in Japan.
Economics: Question 8 of 20
Which situation has contributed most to recent Japanese economic
growth?
1. The Japanese government has place limits on Japanese exports.
2. Japanese industries spend very little on the research and development of new products.
3. The Japanese government and Japanese businesses have cooperated with each other.
4. Japanese citizens save less of their incomes than the citizens of other industrialized nation do.
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The Japanese government is very supportive of
industry. This partnership between government and business has
worked to build a very strong economy in Japan.
Economics: Question 9 of 20
The emergence of Japan as a world economic power has been based
mostly on Japans
1. development of nuclear power 2. abundance of fossil fuels 3. strong traditional of military rule 4. business enterprise and organization
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Japanese businesses are very well regulated and
organized. This has enabled them to out compete competitors
around the world and help build a very strong economy in Japan.
Economics: Question 10 of 20
In recent years, which factor has been a major reason for the
economic tensions between the United States and Japan?
1. Japans trade deficit with the United States was very high 2. the United States refused to place quotas on Japanese goods 3. the United States imported more from Japan than it exported
to Japan
4. Japan lowered tariffs on goods imported from the United States
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The United States currently has a trade deficit with
Japan. This has caused some consumers in the U.S. to boycott
Japanese goods in favor of products made in the U.S.A..
Economics: Question 11 of 20
Since World War II, people in both Africa and Latin America have
moved from rural to urban areas. The major cause of this movement
has been the
1. rejection of traditional custom 2. expectation of improved economic opportunities 3. guarantee of better housing 4. fear of civil war
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: People in both regions have moved to the cities in
hopes of greater economic opportunities. This is known as
urbanization, and is common in many third world nations.
Economics: Question 12 of 20
Which factor best accounts for the existence of cash-crop
production as a major form of agriculture in many Central American
nations today?
1. demand of world markets for such crops 2. lack of modern agricultural technology 3. inadequate supply of water and other natural resources 4. peasant ownership of most farmlands
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Many Latin American nations rely on one or two cash
crops as the basis of their economies. This is due to the demand of
the world market for such products, and the inability of Latin
America to attract sufficient capital investment for industrialization.
Economics: Question 13 of 20
Economic development in Japan after World War II and in
Communist China since the 1980s is similar in that both nations have sought to
1. end foreign investment 2. develop their vast natural resources to achieve economic
growth
3. utilize the concepts of capitalism to improve their economies 4. nationalize most major industries and restrict competition
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Japan and China have nationalized most major
industries in an effort to limit foreign competition in their countries.
Economics: Question 14 of 20
During the 1980s and 1990s, the economic policies of China, supported by Deng Xiaoping, have led directly to
1. an expansion of Chinas colonial empire 2. an increase in trade with the West 3. a return to a strict command economy 4. the success of the commune system
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: During the 1980s and 1990s, China has opened its
markets to foreign trade, and began exporting a variety of products
to the world market.
Economics: Question 15 of 20
Which statement best explains Chinas economic shift toward capitalism in the 1980s and early 1990s?
1. Chinas economic policies were directly influenced by the success of the Soviet economic system
2. the Tiananmen Square massacre resulted in major economic reforms in China
3. the success of the Cultural Revolution resulted in the increased westernization of China
4. communist economic policies were not meeting the needs of the society
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: The shift to a more capitalistic economy has been due
to the dismal failure of communism as an economic system.
Economics: Question 16 of 20
One principle in the theory of mercantilism is that colonies should
be
1. granted independence as soon as possible 2. considered an economic burden for the colonial power 3. encouraged to develop their own industries 4. acquired as markets and sources of raw materials
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Mercantilism is an economic system where a
countrys wealth is based upon exporting more products than it imports. To accomplish this, a country must have colonies to
provide raw materials, and also to provide a market for the finished
products.
Economics: Question 17 of 20
Which statement best describes how a command economy
functioned in the Soviet Union?
1. The laws of supply and demand controlled the economy. 2. Trade policies mandated that imports exceed exports. 3. The success of the agricultural sector controlled the price of
manufactured goods.
4. A central authority determined the type and quantity of goods to be produced.
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: A communist, or command economy, controls the
means of production by having governmental agencies involved in
production planning.
Economics: Question 18 of 20
To maintain its economic position, Japan has often limited the
number of cars or the quantity of farm products that the United
States can sell in Japan. Japan has imposed these limits to develop
1. an equality-of-trade position 2. a favorable balance of trade 3. a more open market 4. a belief system
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Japan has limited the amount of products it imports
from the United States to protect its native industries. This has
created a favorable balance of trade for Japan.
Economics: Question 19 of 20
The economic policy of mercantilism first developed during the
1. Age of Exploration 2. Enlightenment 3. Cold War 4. Green Revolution
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Mercantilism is an economic system where a
countrys wealth is based upon exporting more products than it imports. To accomplish this, a country must have colonies to
provide raw materials, and also to provide a market for the finished
products. This was the system in use during the Age of Exploration.
Economics: Question 20 of 20
Statement A: The might of a country consists of gaining surpluses
of gold and silver.
Statement B: A nations strength is found in economic independence and the maintenance of a favorable balance of trade.
Statement C: We need to gain colonies both as sources for raw
materials and as markets for our manufactured goods.
Which economic system is being described by these statements?
1. traditional 2. feudal 3. command 4. mercantile
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Mercantilism is an economic system where a
countrys wealth is based upon exporting more products than it imports, and maintaining surplus of gold and silver. To accomplish
this, a country must have colonies to provide raw materials, and also
to provide a market for the finished products. This was the system in
use during the Age of Exploration.
Political Science: Question 1 of 16
Which generalization about democracy is most valid?
1. democratic political systems require a highly industrialized society
2. democratic governments first evolved in North America 3. democratic governments prevent their citizens from traveling
abroad
4. democratic governments protect basic civil liberties
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Civil liberties are simply the rights held by citizens of
a nation. In order for a democracy to exist, civil liberties must be
protected to allow citizens to be able to elect their leaders.
Political Science: Question 2 of 16
Which factor is necessary for the development of democratic
institutions?
1. strong military forces 2. respect for individual rights 3. a one-party system 4. an agricultural economy
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Democracies are founded upon civil liberties, which
are the individual rights of each citizen. Without respect, for these
rights, there cannot be a democracy.
Political Science: Question 3 of 16
Power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely.
--Lord Acton, British historian
Based on this quotation, why type of government would Lord Acton
most likely support?
1. dictatorship 2. absolute monarchy 3. totalitarian state 4. representative democracy
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: If absolute power does in fact corrupt absolutely, then
the only way to prevent this from happening in government is to
give power to the people so that no one person can possess absolute
power. A government in which political power rests with the people
is known as a representative democracy.
Political Science: Question 4 of 16
Democracy in modern Japan resulted primarily from
1. Shinto and Buddhist beliefs about equality and justice 2. reforms imposed by the United States after World War II 3. a history of imperial justice under the constitution of the
Emperor
4. the diffusion of ideas and practices from China and Korea
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: After World War II, the United States imposed
democratic reforms on Japan as a way of insuring peace for the
future. These reforms led to the creation of a Parliamentary
Democracy.
Political Science: Question 5 of 16
After the breakup of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Soviet
Union, new nations were formed. Which generalization accurately
reflects the effect of the breakup on these new nations?
1. new nations are generally too poor and weak to become active members of the United Nations
2. new nations rarely use their limited resources to wage war 3. national and ethnic differences often lead to instability and
violence in new nations
4. self-determination generally leads to democratic forms of government in new nations
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Instability and violence are often caused by the
pursuit of self determination by each ethnic group.
Political Science: Question 6 of 16
Which statement describes a characteristic of the British
parliamentary system today?
1. the Prime Minister is elected by the majority party in Parliament
2. the monarch serves as a strong head of state 3. the members of the House of Commons are appointed for
life
4. the minority party has no vote in the Parliament
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: A parliamentary democracy is a government ruled
democratically by a national representative body that has supreme
legislative powers. This Parliament is controlled by a Prime
Minister who is elected by the majority party.
Political Science: Question 7 of 16
Which political system is the basis of Japans government today?
1. parliamentary democracy 2. military dictatorship 3. absolute monarchy 4. national socialism
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: A parliamentary democracy is a government ruled
democratically by a national representative body that has supreme
legislative powers. This Parliament is controlled by a Prime
Minister who is elected by the majority party.
Political Science: Question 8 of 16
A constitution? What for? The Koran is the oldest and most efficient constitution in the world.
--King Faisal of Saudi Arabia (1966)
The form of government of Iran is that of an Islamic Republic.
--Article 1, Iranian Constitution (1979)
These quotations best support the idea that
1. the laws of Islam can be used to govern a country 2. every country needs elected leaders 3. Muslims believe in a weak central government 4. religion should be separated from government
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Islamic life is regulated by the Koran and the Sharia.
The Koran is the Islamic holy book. The Sharia is the Islamic
system of laws developed from the Koran. Many countries with a
large Muslim population have returned to the use of these two books
as a system of government. The movement in modern times is
referred to Islamic Fundamentalism.
Political Science: Question 9 of 16
Cavour Provokes War Against Austria Mazzini Establishes Young Italy Poles Fail in Revolt Against Russia
These headlines best reflect the concept of
1. nationalism 2. isolationism 3. imperialism 4. totalitarianism
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Nationalism is the feeling of pride in and devotion to
ones country. This often leads to revolts against foreign domination.
Political Science: Question 10 of 16
What did Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels believe would be the
result when communism finally emerged as the dominant political
and economic system?
1. Only two classes would exist in society. 2. All the evils of industrial society would disappear. 3. The Soviet Union would become the worlds only
superpower.
4. Citizens would own their individual homes and farms.
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Marx and Engels believed that their economic and
political system would create a classless society where the means of
production would be controlled by the working class, and a fair
distribution of wealth would exist.
Political Science: Question 11 of 16
A similarity of the rule of the ancient Mongols and the ancient
Greeks is that both
1. protected the human rights of the peoples they controlled 2. destroyed the civilizations they defeated
3. remained isolated and peaceful for centuries 4. established vast empires and spread their cultures to the
people they conquered
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Both the Mongols and Ancient Greeks established
empires that allowed the spreading of ideas through cultural
diffusion.
Political Science: Question 12 of 16
The code of Hammurabi is an example of
1. written rules for legal procedures 2. the power of strong kings to control trade 3. regulations on the way to conduct wars against neighboring
nations
4. the power of a legislature to veto laws passed by absolute monarchs
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Hammurabis Code was the first major collection of laws in history. It contain both criminal law, dealing with murder
and theft, and civil law dealing with private rights and matters, such
as business contracts and property inheritance.
Political Science: Question 13 of 16
. . . suspending laws . . . , by regal [royal] authority without consent of Parliament is illegal.
--English Bill of Rights, 1689
Which form of government does the quotation support?
1. limited monarchy 2. dynastic rule 3. totalitarian 4. theocracy
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: A limited monarchy is a government system in which
the monarch is limited in his/her political powers, usually by an
elected body, such as the British Parliament.
Political Science: Question 14 of 16
The Magna Carta, the Glorious Revolution, and the writings of John
Locke all contributed to Great Britains development of
1. absolute monarchy 2. ethnic rivalries 3. parliamentary democracy 4. imperialist policies
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: A parliamentary democracy is a government ruled
democratically by a national representative body that has supreme
legislative powers. This Parliament is controlled by a Prime
Minister who is elected by the majority party.
Political Science: Question 15 of 16
In the Soviet Union, Joseph Stalin governed by means of secret
police, censorship, and purges. This type of government is called
1. democracy 2. totalitarian 3. limited monarchy 4. theocracy
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: A totalitarian state is a nation in which the
government controls every aspect of citizens lives through a single party dictatorship. The methods often include the use of censorship,
secret police, and terror.
Political Science: Question 16 of 16
Speaker A: The gods approached Vishnu, the lord of creatures, and
said: Indicate to us that one person among mortals who alone is worthy of the highest rank . . . Vishnu reflected, and brought forth a glorious son who became the first king.
Speaker B: The traditional African society, whether it had a chief or
not, was a society of equals and it conducted its business through
discussion.
Speaker C: Ideally, the best form of government is one where every
citizen not only has a voice but also, at least occasionally, is called
on to take actual part.
Speaker D: A monarchs authority comes directly from God, and this is how the leadership and power in a society should be
determined.
Which speakers would support the theory explaining the power of
Frances Louis XIV, Spains Philip II, and Englands Elizabeth I?
1. A and D 2. B and C 3. A and C 4. B and D
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Divine Right theory of government believes that the
rulers authority comes from God. Frances Louis XIV, Spains Philip II, and Englands Elizabeth I all believed in this theory and used it to justify their rule during Europes Age of Absolutism.
Culture: Question 1 of 50
Which aspect of a nations culture is most directly influenced by the physical geography of that nation?
1. form of government 2. religious beliefs 3. population distribution 4. social class system
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: People tend to live where there are abundant and
easily attainable natural resources. These resources tend to attract
industry and provide food and shelter.
Culture: Question 2 of 50
One reason the cultures of North Africa developed differently from
the cultures of the rest of Africa was that these areas of Africa were
separated by the
1. Congo River Basin 2. Great Rift Valley 3. Sahara Desert 4. Arabian Sea
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The Sahara Desert has acted as a natural barrier in
Africa which resulted in the diffusion of Middle Eastern culture in
North Africa, while Sub-Saharan Africa maintained a variety of
traditional cultures until the beginning of the Slave Trade and
imperialism practiced by Europeans during the Scramble for Africa.
Culture: Question 3 of 50
In China, the development of ethnocentrism was most influenced by
1. its historic reliance on foreign nations 2. a long history of democratic government 3. a strong belief in Christianity 4. its geographic isolation
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: The Gobi Desert to the North, the Himalayan
Mountains to the Southwest, and the seas to the East all contribute
to the geographic isolation of China. This isolation hindered cultural
contact for many years which resulted in China considering itself
the Middle Kingdom, or the center of human civilization.
Culture: Question 4 of 50
In most societies, works of art and architecture generally serve to
1. satisfy the needs of the leaders 2. limit the influence of religion 3. reflect the values of that society 4. express opposition to the government in power
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Art and architecture have typically been seen as a
window to the values of the society in which they are created.
Examples include the appreciation of the human ideal expressed in
the works of many Renaissance artists which contain human nudes,
such as Michelangelo's famous statue of David.
Culture: Question 5 of 50
In modern African nations, the continued strength of the tribe or
ethnic group is a reflection of the continuing influence of
1. European imperialism 2. urban growth 3. the slave trade 4. traditional cultures
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: The tribalism, which often crosses national
boundaries in modern-day Africa, illustrates the influence that
traditional culture still has in that region of the world.
Culture: Question 6 of 50
Traditional African art has had the greatest influence on
1. classical Roman mosaics and pottery 2. Renaissance painting 3. 20th century sculpture and painting 4. Medieval European architecture
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Elements of traditional African art, such as abstract
patterning rather than representation, can be seen in many examples
of 20th century sculpture and painting.
Culture: Question 7 of 50
Which generalization is characteristic of most traditional societies?
1. people move from city to city seeking new jobs 2. sons learn the same trades as their fathers 3. a high degree of social mobility exists 4. all people have the same economic opportunities
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: In traditional societies, economic opportunities are
limited to that which is practiced in the family. An example is that
in traditional societies, sons learn the same trades as their fathers.
Culture: Question 8 of 50
Recent archeological studies suggest the theory that
1. the earliest humans evolved in the Rift Valley in Africa 2. farming societies developed before hunting and gathering
societies
3. all the continents were settled at about the same time 4. the wheel was used by all ancient societies
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Australopithecines, one of the earliest known human
relatives, dates back 5 million years and was discovered in the Rift
Valley of Africa.
Culture: Question 9 of 50
Which factor has contributed most to the social and cultural identity
of the Middle East?
1. political stability of the region 2. ability of the region to export oil 3. lack of foreign involvement in the region
4. strong influence of Islam on the region
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Islam is the dominant religion practiced in the
cultural region knows as the Middle East, and has thus maintained
the social and cultural identity of this region.
Culture: Question 10 of 50
The Chinese called their land Middle Kingdom. Europeans often used the term backward to refer to China. These statements best illustrate
1. the failure of geographers to establish a universal terminology
2. the importance of East Asia in world history 3. the adoption of policies of nonalignment 4. attitudes of ethnocentrism in both cultures
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Ethnocentrism refers to the idea that one holds their
own culture to be superior to all others. Both of these statements
illustrate the ethnocentric attitudes of both the Chinese and
Europeans.
Culture: Question 11 of 50
Geographic isolation of a people frequently reinforces
1. a traditional way of life 2. the development of scientific investigation 3. the need for higher education 4. a process of cultural diffusion
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Geographic isolation severely limits opportunities for
cultural diffusion, so that a society that is isolated may maintain its
traditional ways.
Culture: Question 12 of 50
In most societies, urbanization has
1. weakened traditional values and life patterns 2. strengthened the influence of the extended family system 3. discouraged economic growth 4. promoted population growth
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The process of urbanization brings many people from
different backgrounds together in one place. Thus, through the
exchange of ideas from different people, traditional values tend to
be weakened.
Culture: Question 13 of 50
Which statement cites an example of cultural diffusion?
1. Venezuela has large reserves of oil 2. young people dance to rock music in Russia 3. students in China learn calligraphy in school 4. the Caste system is an important part of life in India
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Cultural diffusion refers to the sharing of ideas
between different societies. Since rock music was pioneered in the
United States, it can be safely assumed that it has been transmitted
to Russia and adopted by young people there.
Culture: Question 14 of 50
In most traditional societies, the teaching of values is mainly the
responsibility of the
1. judicial system 2. government 3. educational system 4. family
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Families are the center of most traditional societies,
and this is where values would be taught to the young.
Culture: Question 15 of 50
The study of culture primarily involves
1. observing the physical environment of people 2. learning why various peoples live as they do 3. understanding the technology of modern machinery 4. analyzing the personalities of children in the same family
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Culture refers to all of the things that make up daily
life for people. Therefore the study of culture involves learning why
people live as they do.
Culture: Question 16 of 50
Extended families and limited social mobility are characteristic of
1. constitutional monarchies 2. polytheistic religions 3. traditional societies 4. socialist economies
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: In traditional societies, families tend to consist of
parents, children, and other extended relatives (e.g., grandparents,
aunts, uncles, etc.). Children of these societies also are trained to do
the same work as their parents, thus limiting their opportunities for
social mobility.
Culture: Question 17 of 50
People in both Japan and India eat very little meat. A study of these
cultures would show that
1. although these cultures have similar practices, the reasons for these practices differ
2. the raising of cattle in both nations is very difficult due to the extreme climate
3. neither culture is concerned with health issues 4. the governments of both nations enforce strict dietary laws
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The Japanese eats very little red meat due to the
abundance of life in the sea surrounding them, while many Indians
practice Hinduism in which they believe in the cycle of
reincarnation. Therefore, to a Hindu, eating animal flesh might
constitute a form of murder.
Culture: Question 18 of 50
The dominance of the Spanish language in Latin America and
continued use of the French language in Senegal are examples of
1. cultural diffusion 2. social mobility 3. humanism 4. Marxism
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: These languages are not native to these areas. Rather,
they were brought by Europeans practicing imperialism and are
therefore a form of cultural diffusion.
Culture: Question 19 of 50
Which activity is the best example of cultural diffusion in Africa?
1. weaving kente cloth in Ghana 2. using masks in traditional African ceremonies 3. discovering bronze sculptures from Benin 4. practicing of Islam in Nigeria
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Islam was founded in Saudi Arabia and was
transmitted throughout the Middle East, India, and northern Africa.
Culture: Question 20 of 50
Which statement about India is a fact rather than an opinion?
1. most Indians are happy with the Hindu practice of arranged marriages
2. India is fortunate to have a multiparty system of government 3. The Mongols ruled India for more that 100 years 4. the partition of British India in 1947 helped India prosper
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Mongol rule in India is the only answer that is based
on historical fact, while the other answers represent opinions.
Culture: Question 21 of 50
Which reference would be used to find the most recent information
about the gross domestic product (GDP) of a nation?
1. historical atlas 2. thesaurus 3. world almanac 4. dictionary
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: Statistical information such as the GDP of a specific
country can be most easily found in a world almanac. A dictionary
and thesaurus each contain linguistic information, and an historical
atlas would contain maps from different historical periods.
Culture: Question 22 of 50
Culture is sometimes referred to as a blueprint for living because it
1. flourished best in traditional societies 2. includes all the things that contribute to a societys
development
3. is determined by genetics 4. determines the types of jobs offered to the members of a
society
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Culture is comprised of all the things that make up
daily life in an area.
Culture: Question 23 of 50
In many African nations, a major result of migration from rural to
urban areas has been
1. a strengthening of traditional values 2. a decline in employment opportunities for educated Africans 3. a weakening of ancestral lines and kinship bonds 4. increased agricultural productivity
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: The process of urbanization brings many people from
different backgrounds together in one place. Thus, through the
exchange of ideas from different people, traditional values tend to
be weakened.
Culture: Question 24 of 50
Which statement about Japan is a fact rather than an opinion?
1. Japanese family values have declined with modernization 2. many of Japans cultural traditions were borrowed from
China
3. rapid industrialization has caused few problems for the Japanese people
4. traditional farming techniques in Japan were better than modern ones
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: The transmission of Chinese culture to Japan is the
only answer based in historical fact, while the other answers
represent opinions.
Culture: Question 25 of 50
One similarity between the culture of traditional China under
dynastic rule and the culture of modern China under communism is
that both stress
1. a state-supported religion 2. loyalty to the authority of leaders 3. the importance of a matriarchal society 4. limits on population growth
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Both Confucianism and communism in modern China
have emphasized loyalty to the authority of leaders.
Culture: Question 26 of 50
The ancient Chinese expression Middle Kingdom and the European terms Near East and Far East best reflect
1. the impact of the Enlightenment on global thinking 2. an improved knowledge of world geography 3. an objective view of the worlds cultures 4. the influence of ethnocentrism on geographic perspective
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Both statements reveal that each culture is basing
their perspective of the world on their own geographic location.
Culture: Question 27 of 50
The accusations of witchcraft in 17th century England and the
practice of foot-binding in 19th century China are examples of the
1. discrimination against women in various cultures 2. negative aspects of a matriarchal society 3. gradual improvement of womens rights around the world
4. respect give to mothers in traditional cultures
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Both of these statements are examples of
discrimination against women because they involve the maiming or
killing of women.
Culture: Question 28 of 50
Buildings such as the Gothic cathedrals in Western Europe and the
Parthenon in ancient Greece reflect each societys
1. imperialistic attitudes 2. cultural values 3. belief in democracy 4. rigid social structure
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Both buildings functioned as places of worship in
these societies. Therefore, they reflect the particular religious beliefs
of each society. These beliefs are part of their cultural values.
Culture: Question 29 of 50
Before towns and cities can develop in a society, the society needs
to establish
1. an educational system 2. an agricultural surplus 3. a writing system 4. a democratic government
Correct Answer Number: 2
Explanation: Before humans were able to settle down in one place,
they needed to provide enough food for the community. This shift in
society from hunting-gathering to agriculture is known as the
Neolithic Revolution.
Culture: Question 30 of 50
Which statement best supports the idea that cultural diffusion has
greatly affected Southeast Asia?
1. the population of Southeast Asia is concentrated in rural areas
2. monsoon climates affect food production in Indonesia 3. a reliance on subsistence agriculture remains a problem for
many Southeast Asian economies
4. Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam are practiced throughout Southeast Asia
Correct Answer Number: 4
Explanation: Buddhism and Hinduism originated in India while
Islam was founded in the Middle East. These were transmitted to
Southeast Asia through the process of cultural diffusion.
Culture: Question 31 of 50
In India, which aspect of society has been most heavily influenced
by religious beliefs, tradition, and the division of labor?
1. caste system 2. policy of neutrality 3. urbanization 4. parliamentary government
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: The Caste System ranked Hindus by class and divide
labor among them. For example, at the top of this system, the
Brahmin were considered the holy class, while untouchables were
considered out of caste and were only allowed to do the most menial
jobs.
Culture: Question 32 of 50
One similarity between the cultures of traditional China and
traditional Japan was that
1. the educated class was held in high esteem 2. religion played a minor role in society 3. social mobility was encouraged
4. the people elected the political leaders
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Both China and Japan have traditionally held teachers
and the educated in high regard.
Culture: Question 33 of 50
The invention of writing systems and the growth of cities occurred
only in civilizations that
1. originated in south Asia 2. developed matriarchal leadership 3. developed complex institutions 4. borrowed heavily from the Greeks and Romans
Correct Answer Number: 3
Explanation: A sophisticated level of organization is required for
civilizations to develop writing systems and cities.
Culture: Question 34 of 50
A sociologist interested in Indian culture would most likely focus on
the study of
1. Hinduism and its influence on life in India 2. Indias development of nuclear weapons 3. the parliamentary government of India 4. the influence of agricultural production on Indias Gross
national Product (GNP)
Correct Answer Number: 1
Explanation: Sociologists are interested in human social
relationships and would therefore be most likely to study the effect
of Hinduism on life in India.
Culture: Question 35 of 50
In India, the Caste System determined a