1.
Which of the following statements about the Emma Elish is NOT true?
Correct Answer
B. Humans were created by gods out of earth and water.
Explanation
The Emma Elish is the creation myth of the people of Akkad, which is a true statement. It describes the rebellion of a god and goddess and their subsequent destruction by Marduk, another true statement. However, the statement that humans were created by gods out of earth and water is not true according to the Emma Elish. In this myth, humans were created by the blood of the rebel god, Kingu, and the goddess Tiamat's body.
2.
The Purusa-sakta:
Correct Answer
C. Helped justify the caste system in India
Explanation
The Purusa-sakta is a myth that helped justify the caste system in India. The caste system is a social hierarchy that divides people into different groups based on their birth and occupation. According to the myth, the Purusa, a primordial being, was sacrificed to create the different castes. This myth provided a religious and cultural basis for the rigid social structure of the caste system, with each caste having its own rights, duties, and privileges. It helped maintain social order and control by assigning individuals to specific roles and limiting social mobility.
3.
The book of Genesis holds that:
Correct Answer
B. God created man "in his own image".
Explanation
The book of Genesis states that God created man "in his own image". This means that humans possess qualities and characteristics that reflect the nature of God. It implies that humans have inherent worth and value, as they are created in the likeness of God. This belief is foundational in many religious traditions and emphasizes the unique and special status of human beings in relation to the rest of creation.
4.
In the mid-1700s, the more astute natural scientists:
Correct Answer
D. Had questioned the idea that all plant and animal species had been separately created
Explanation
In the mid-1700s, natural scientists had questioned the idea that all plant and animal species had been separately created. This suggests that they were beginning to challenge the prevailing belief in separate acts of creation for each species. This questioning indicates a shift towards considering the possibility of common ancestry and evolution, which would later be supported by the theory of natural selection proposed by Charles Darwin.
5.
Charles Darwin:
Correct Answer
C. Acknowledged that there was a "Creator"
Explanation
Charles Darwin acknowledged that there was a "Creator." This means that he believed in the existence of a higher power or a divine being responsible for the creation of life. This acknowledgement is significant because it shows that Darwin did not completely reject the idea of a divine force, even though his theory of evolution through natural selection challenged traditional religious beliefs. It also suggests that Darwin saw a potential harmony between science and religion, as he recognized the possibility of a creator while also proposing a naturalistic explanation for the development of life on Earth.
6.
Which of the following is NOT a reason put forth in the text for the disappearance of Neanderthals?
Correct Answer
A. Neaderthals warred with each other and droved themselves to extinction
Explanation
The given answer states that Neanderthals warred with each other and drove themselves to extinction. However, this reason is not mentioned in the text as a cause for the disappearance of Neanderthals. The text only discusses the possibilities of Homo sapiens sapiens destroying Neanderthals through violence, out-competing them for resources, and interbreeding with them.
7.
Linguist Noam Chomsky argues that the ability to use language is:
Correct Answer
C. Genetic
Explanation
Noam Chomsky argues that the ability to use language is genetic. He believes that humans are born with an innate capacity for language, which he refers to as the "language acquisition device" (LAD). According to Chomsky, this genetic predisposition allows children to acquire language effortlessly and rapidly, regardless of the specific language they are exposed to or the quality of language input they receive. Chomsky's theory suggests that language acquisition is not solely dependent on environmental factors or parental teaching, but rather on an inherent linguistic structure that is hardwired in the human brain.
8.
Global migration of Homo sapiens sapiens:
Correct Answer
B. Was often spurred by major climate changes
Explanation
The correct answer is "was often spurred by major climate changes." This is because major climate changes, such as ice ages or droughts, would have directly impacted the availability of resources and habitats for early humans. As a result, they would have been forced to migrate in search of more favorable conditions. This pattern of migration in response to climate changes is supported by archaeological and genetic evidence.
9.
The first animals to be domesticated in the "Fertile Crescent" were:
Correct Answer
A. Goats and sheep
Explanation
Goats and sheep were the first animals to be domesticated in the "Fertile Crescent" because they were well-suited to the region's environment and the needs of early agricultural societies. These animals provided a reliable source of food in the form of meat, milk, and wool, and they were also used for transportation and labor. The domestication of goats and sheep allowed for the development of settled farming communities and the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to a more sedentary one.
10.
Which of the following empires was organized first?
Correct Answer
B. Hittite
Explanation
The Hittite Empire was organized first among the given options. The Hittites were an ancient Anatolian people who established their empire around the 17th century BCE. They were known for their advanced military techniques and their use of chariots in warfare. The Hittite Empire reached its peak around the 14th century BCE and had a significant influence on the ancient Near East.
11.
In Sumer after about 2800 B.C.E., members of this group ruled in conjunction with kings:
Correct Answer
A. Temple priests
Explanation
In Sumer after about 2800 B.C.E., temple priests ruled in conjunction with kings. They held significant power and influence within the society due to their close association with religious practices and beliefs. The priests played a crucial role in performing rituals, interpreting omens, and communicating with the gods. Their involvement in political affairs allowed them to exert control and influence over the ruling class, making them an important group in the governance of Sumer.
12.
Which type of writing occurred first?
Correct Answer
A. PictograpHic writing
Explanation
Pictographic writing refers to a form of communication where pictures or symbols are used to represent objects or ideas. This type of writing is considered to be the earliest form of written communication, as it dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians and Egyptians. Pictographic writing allowed people to convey messages and record information by using simple drawings that represented specific concepts. Over time, pictographic writing evolved into more complex systems such as cuneiform and phonetic writing, which used symbols to represent sounds and syllables. Therefore, pictographic writing occurred before Assyrian writing, phonetic writing, and cuneiform writing.
13.
The city-states of Mesopotamia were especially vulnerable due to:
Correct Answer
A. Inter-urban warfare
Explanation
The city-states of Mesopotamia were particularly vulnerable due to inter-urban warfare. This means that the city-states were constantly engaged in conflicts and battles with each other. This constant state of warfare made them vulnerable to attacks and weakened their overall defense capabilities. Additionally, inter-urban warfare led to instability and lack of unity among the city-states, making it easier for powerful external enemies to exploit their weaknesses.
14.
This people invented writing:
Correct Answer
D. Sumerians
Explanation
The Sumerians are credited with inventing writing. They developed a system of writing known as cuneiform around 3200 BCE. This system used wedge-shaped marks made on clay tablets, and it was used for various purposes such as record-keeping, literature, and communication. The invention of writing by the Sumerians was a significant milestone in human history, as it allowed for the preservation and transmission of knowledge across generations.
15.
Sumerian cuneiform writing was primarily displaced due to the actions of:
Correct Answer
A. Alexander the Great
Explanation
Alexander the Great is the correct answer because he conquered the region of Mesopotamia, which included Sumer, in the 4th century BCE. As a result of his conquest, Greek became the dominant language and culture in the region, displacing the use of Sumerian cuneiform writing. Alexander's conquest led to the spread of Hellenistic culture and the adoption of the Greek alphabet, which eventually replaced cuneiform as the primary writing system in the region.
16.
The Sumerians:
Correct Answer
C. Dominated Mesopotamia for nearly a millenium
Explanation
The Sumerians dominated Mesopotamia for nearly a millennium. Mesopotamia was an ancient region located in the eastern Mediterranean, between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. The Sumerians were one of the earliest civilizations in this region and they established city-states in Mesopotamia around 3000 BCE. They developed advanced systems of writing, mathematics, and governance, and their influence lasted for almost 1000 years. The Sumerians made significant contributions to the development of human civilization and their dominance in Mesopotamia shaped the cultural, political, and economic landscape of the region during that time.
17.
The Bronze Age:
Correct Answer
B. Was a time of significant technological breakthroughs
Explanation
The Bronze Age was a time of significant technological breakthroughs. This era marked the development and widespread use of bronze, which was a major advancement in metalworking. Bronze tools and weapons were stronger and more durable than their stone counterparts, leading to improvements in agriculture, warfare, and trade. The Bronze Age also saw the emergence of complex societies and the development of new technologies such as pottery, weaving, and early forms of writing. This period laid the foundation for future advancements in civilizations and greatly influenced human history.
18.
Which of the following is NOT one of the four legacies of the Harappa described in the text?
Correct Answer
C. Aryan invaders nearly completely destroyed the Indus valley civilization
Explanation
The correct answer is "Aryan invaders nearly completely destroyed the Indus valley civilization." This is not one of the four legacies of the Harappa described in the text. The text mentions that the Aryan invaders adopted some settlement characteristics, agricultural techniques, and religious ideas of the Indus valley civilization. However, it does not mention that they nearly completely destroyed it.
19.
The use of iron occurred:
Correct Answer
B. Adter the use of bronze
Explanation
Iron was used after the use of bronze because bronze was the primary metal used for tools and weapons before iron became widely available. Bronze was a stronger and more durable material compared to stone or bone, but it had limitations. Iron, on the other hand, was abundant and easier to obtain, making it a more practical choice for tools and weapons. The discovery and widespread use of iron marked a significant technological advancement in human history.
20.
The art and craftwork of the Indus valley indicates:
Correct Answer
B. That they participated in active interregion trade
Explanation
The art and craftwork of the Indus valley indicates that they participated in active interregion trade. This conclusion can be drawn from the presence of various artifacts such as pottery, jewelry, and seals that were found in the region, which display influences from different cultures and regions. The intricate designs and high level of craftsmanship suggest that the Indus valley civilization had established connections and exchanges with other societies, indicating their involvement in trade and cultural interactions.
21.
Neolithic groups on China began the transition from hunting and gathering to farming and village life a early as:
Correct Answer
C. 8000 B.C.E.
Explanation
The correct answer is 8000 B.C.E. This is because the transition from hunting and gathering to farming and village life in Neolithic China began around this time. This period marked the shift from a nomadic lifestyle to a settled agricultural society, with the development of farming techniques and the establishment of permanent settlements. The cultivation of crops such as millet and rice became prevalent during this period, leading to the growth of villages and the emergence of a more complex social structure.
22.
Which of the following innovations was developed first?
Correct Answer
D. Yangshao penal code
Explanation
The Yangshao penal code was developed first among the given options. This suggests that the development of a penal code was prioritized before the other innovations mentioned. This indicates that the society or civilization that developed the Yangshao penal code recognized the need for a system of laws and punishments to maintain order and regulate behavior. The development of a penal code likely occurred before the invention of the crossbow, Longshan ceramics, and farming with domesticated animals, showcasing the early establishment of a legal framework in this particular civilization.
23.
Chinese three earliest known dynasties:
Correct Answer
B. Were each at one time the most powerful dynasty
Explanation
The Chinese three earliest known dynasties were each at one time the most powerful dynasty. This means that each of these dynasties held significant power and influence during their respective reigns. They may have achieved this through military conquests, political stability, or economic prosperity. However, it is important to note that these dynasties did not overlap each other, indicating that they existed at different periods in Chinese history. Additionally, the statement suggests that these dynasties showed a reverential respect for the sanctity of human life, implying that they may have had cultural or moral values that emphasized the importance of human life.
24.
The Xia dynasty:
Correct Answer
D. Had rulers that engaged in rituals and divinations
Explanation
The Xia dynasty is known for having rulers who engaged in rituals and divinations. This suggests that the rulers of the dynasty placed a significant emphasis on religious practices and believed in the power of supernatural forces. This aspect of their rule is an important characteristic of the Xia dynasty and sets it apart from other ancient civilizations. While little is known about the Xia dynasty due to the lack of significant archaeological sites, the fact that its rulers were involved in rituals and divinations provides some insight into their religious and cultural practices.
25.
Chinese oracle bones:
Correct Answer
C. Have provided useful information about the rulers of the Shang dynasty
Explanation
Chinese oracle bones have provided useful information about the rulers of the Shang dynasty. These bones, which have been useful to archeologists, anthropologists, and historians for at least three centuries, first came to the attention of scientists after they were found at excavation sites. Despite being usually made from human bones, these oracle bones have proven to be valuable sources of information about the rulers of the Shang dynasty, shedding light on their practices, beliefs, and governance.
26.
The Shang state was characterized by a:
Correct Answer
A. A king who allowed relatives to rule regional areas
Explanation
The Shang state was characterized by a king who allowed relatives to rule regional areas. This means that the king of the Shang state delegated power to his relatives, allowing them to govern different regions within the state. This decentralized system of governance allowed for greater control and stability over a larger territory.
27.
Scholars know the least about thsi civilization:
Correct Answer
B. Indus valley
Explanation
The correct answer is the Indus Valley. Scholars know the least about this civilization compared to the other options provided. The Indus Valley civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, flourished around 2600 to 1900 BCE in what is now modern-day Pakistan and northwest India. Despite extensive archaeological excavations, the written language of the Indus Valley civilization remains undeciphered, making it difficult to fully understand their culture, social structure, and political system. In contrast, Greek city-states, the Nile Valley, and the Tigris-Euphrates civilizations have left behind more decipherable written records, allowing scholars to gather more knowledge about these civilizations.
28.
We know the least about ancient Egyptian cities when compared with ancient Mesopotamia cities primarily because the Egyptian cities were:
Correct Answer
C. Destroyed by the Nile River
Explanation
Ancient Egyptian cities are least known compared to ancient Mesopotamian cities primarily because they were destroyed by the Nile River. The Nile River, with its annual flooding, caused significant damage to the cities, leading to their destruction and loss of historical information. In contrast, ancient Mesopotamian cities were not subjected to such destructive forces, allowing for better preservation of their remains and historical records.
29.
The economies of the villages that developed along the Nile River were based on:
Correct Answer
B. Cereal agriculture
Explanation
The economies of the villages along the Nile River were based on cereal agriculture. This means that the villagers relied on growing crops such as wheat, barley, and other grains for their livelihood. The fertile soil and regular flooding of the Nile River provided ideal conditions for agriculture, allowing the villagers to cultivate crops and sustain themselves. Commercial trade, fishing, and warfare may have played a role in their economies to some extent, but the primary foundation was cereal agriculture.
30.
Egyptians wrote on paper made from:
Correct Answer
C. Papyrus pith
Explanation
The correct answer is papyrus pith. Papyrus was a type of paper that the Egyptians used, and it was made from the pith of the papyrus plant. The pith was extracted from the plant and then flattened and dried to create a writing surface. This papyrus paper was widely used by the Egyptians for writing and documenting various texts, including religious texts, literature, and administrative documents.
31.
The earliest known writing samples were concerned primarily with:
Correct Answer
A. Commerce
Explanation
The correct answer is commerce because the question is asking about the main focus of the earliest known writing samples. Commerce refers to the buying and selling of goods and services, which was likely a crucial aspect of early human societies. While the other options may have also been important, commerce would have been a primary concern for early civilizations as they developed systems for trade and economic exchange.
32.
The Indus valley civilization:
Correct Answer
A. Began around 7000 B.C.E.
Explanation
The correct answer is "began around 7000 B.C.E." This is because the Indus valley civilization is believed to have started around this time period. The civilization flourished in the Indus River Valley, which is now modern-day Pakistan and northwest India. Archaeological evidence suggests that the civilization had well-planned cities with advanced infrastructure and a sophisticated system of writing. The civilization reached its peak around 1000 B.C.E., but by 1900 B.C.E., it started to decline, possibly due to environmental changes and the migration of people. The Indus valley civilization is also known for its advanced agricultural practices, including the use of irrigation systems. However, the given options state that they made little use of agricultural practices, which is incorrect.
33.
Anyang:
Correct Answer
D. Was mentioned in Shang texts, though it was referred to by a different name
Explanation
The correct answer is "was mentioned in Shang texts, though it was referred to by a different name". This answer is supported by the information provided in the passage, which states that Anyang was mentioned in Shang texts but had a different name. This suggests that Anyang has a historical significance and was known by a different name in the past.
34.
The Popul Vuh contains the creation myth of the:
Correct Answer
C. The Mayan civilization
Explanation
The Popul Vuh is a sacred text of the Mayan civilization that contains their creation myth. It is not associated with the Roman Catholic conquistadores from Spain, the Inca civilization, or the Aztec civilization.
35.
Which the following timeframes was NOT incoporated into the Maya calendar?
Correct Answer
D. “lifecycle” stages for each individual
Explanation
The Maya calendar incorporated the yearly agricultural cycle, dates and events in "cosmic" periods of thousands of years, and historic events in the lives of specific rulers. However, it did not include "lifecycle" stages for each individual.
36.
The South American civilization known for its enormous pebble patterns, can be seen in an ariel view is:
Correct Answer
C. The Nazca
Explanation
The correct answer is the Nazca. The Nazca civilization in South America is famous for creating enormous pebble patterns that can be seen from an aerial view. These patterns, known as the Nazca Lines, are large geoglyphs etched into the desert floor and depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes. The Nazca people created these patterns between 500 BCE and 500 CE, and their purpose is still a subject of debate among archaeologists and historians.
37.
Iron Smelting West Africa:
Correct Answer
D. Was introduced from outside the region
Explanation
The correct answer is "was introduced from outside the region." This means that the process of iron smelting in West Africa was not developed locally, but rather brought in from another area. This suggests that the knowledge and techniques for iron smelting were not originally present in West Africa, but were introduced by external sources.
38.
In the Niger River valley the primary urban settlements that have been excavated suggests that:
Correct Answer
A. That cities may develop without the need for hierarchy, centralization, government structure, or written language
Explanation
The correct answer suggests that cities in the Niger River valley may have developed without the need for hierarchy, centralization, government structure, or written language. This implies that the development of cities in this region did not necessarily rely on these factors and that alternative forms of social organization may have been present.
39.
The impact of the Bantu culture can be seen in which of the following regions:
Correct Answer
C. The Kalahari Desert
Explanation
The Bantu culture had a significant impact on the Kalahari Desert region. The Bantu people, who originated in West Africa, migrated southward over many centuries, spreading their language, customs, and agricultural practices. They settled in various regions across sub-Saharan Africa, including the Kalahari Desert. The Bantu culture influenced the local communities in the region, shaping their social structures, languages, and agricultural techniques. Therefore, the impact of the Bantu culture can be observed in the Kalahari Desert.
40.
The agricultural settlments found in North America aaround 1200 C.E. are not usually considered sites of primary urbanization because:
Correct Answer
C. Their populations were too low
Explanation
The agricultural settlements found in North America around 1200 C.E. are not usually considered sites of primary urbanization because their populations were too low. Urbanization typically involves the growth and concentration of a large population in a specific area, with the development of complex social, economic, and political systems. These settlements likely had smaller populations and did not exhibit the same level of urban characteristics and complexity as primary urban centers. Therefore, they are not considered primary urbanization sites.
41.
The Teotihuacan civilization:
Correct Answer
D. Built the Pyramid of the Sun
Explanation
The Teotihuacan civilization is known for building the Pyramid of the Sun. This ancient civilization thrived in the region, but it did not flourish on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. It is also not true that the civilization was destroyed by Spanish conquistadors. Additionally, while the city of Teotihuacan was significant, the civilization did expand beyond its borders, covering a large area.
42.
The Bantu:
Correct Answer
C. Migrated thousands of miles to southern Africa
Explanation
The Bantu people migrated thousands of miles to southern Africa. This is evidenced by their settlement in regions far south of the Niger River. They were well-known for their copper-shaping skills, which suggests that they had established themselves in southern Africa and developed specialized crafts. The fact that they never practiced agriculture indicates that they relied on other means of sustenance during their migration and settlement.
43.
Empires:
Correct Answer
A. Usually grow through conquest
Explanation
Empires usually grow through conquest because conquering other territories and peoples is a common method for expanding the influence and control of a ruling power. This allows the empire to increase its territory, resources, and population, which in turn strengthens its political and economic power. Conquest also helps to establish dominance over conquered areas, ensuring obedience and loyalty to the ruling empire. Throughout history, many empires have risen to power through military conquest, such as the Roman Empire, Mongol Empire, and British Empire.
44.
The phrase "All roads lead to Rome" refers to:
Correct Answer
B. The concept that a vast market place was brought together under the centralized rule of Rome
Explanation
The phrase "All roads lead to Rome" refers to the concept that a vast market place was brought together under the centralized rule of Rome. This means that Rome was seen as the center of trade and commerce, and all roads, both literal and metaphorical, would eventually lead to Rome. It signifies the importance and influence of Rome as a hub of economic activity and power.
45.
Imperial Dominance:
Correct Answer
C. Requires the use of sheer power to enforce rule
Explanation
Imperial dominance refers to the control and authority exerted by a ruling power over conquered territories and peoples. The correct answer suggests that imperial dominance requires the use of sheer power to enforce rule. This implies that the ruling power relies on force and coercion to maintain control, rather than attempting to gain the allegiance or support of the subjugated peoples. This explanation aligns with the understanding that imperial dominance is often characterized by oppressive and authoritarian tactics rather than diplomacy or cooperation.
46.
Of the following which is not a major cause of the decline and fall of empires:
Correct Answer
B. Fanatical belief in the ideology of the empire
Explanation
Fanatical belief in the ideology of the empire is not a major cause of the decline and fall of empires. While it is true that ideologies can play a role in shaping the actions and decisions of empires, they are not the primary cause of their decline. Overextension of the administration, economic collapse, and failure of leadership are more significant factors that have historically led to the downfall of empires.
47.
The teachings of Zoroastrianism spread under the rule of which of the following:
Correct Answer
C. Darius I
Explanation
The teachings of Zoroastrianism spread under the rule of Darius I. Darius I was a Persian king who reigned from 522 to 486 BCE. He was a follower of Zoroastrianism and played a significant role in promoting the religion throughout the Persian Empire. Darius I allowed religious freedom and actively supported the construction of Zoroastrian temples and the spread of its teachings. His reign marked a period of growth and influence for Zoroastrianism, making him the correct answer.
48.
During the reign of Cyrus II, the royal orad of the Persian Empire connected with which of the following cities:
Correct Answer
D. Sardis and Susa
Explanation
During the reign of Cyrus II, the royal road of the Persian Empire connected the cities of Sardis and Susa.
49.
Crete:
Correct Answer
B. Was once controlled by Mycenae
Explanation
The correct answer is "was once controlled by Mycenae". This is because Crete was indeed controlled by the Mycenaeans during the late Bronze Age. The Mycenaeans, who were an ancient Greek civilization, exerted their influence over Crete and other parts of the Aegean region. This control is an important historical fact about Crete and its past.
50.
The Greek city-state
Correct Answer
D. Usually centered on a single city
Explanation
The correct answer is usually centered on a single city. This is because Greek city-states were typically focused around a single city, which served as the political, economic, and cultural center of the state. The city-state was a self-governing entity with its own laws, government, and citizens. It was not uncommon for the city-state to have a population exceeding 100,000, but this varied depending on the specific city-state. The statement about the political powers analogous to that of a state within the United States is not relevant to the nature of Greek city-states.