1.
Stalin's IMMEDIATE response to the German invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941 was to
Correct Answer
B. Go into seclusion for several days
Explanation
Stalin's immediate response to the German invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941 was to go into seclusion for several days. This suggests that Stalin needed time to gather his thoughts, assess the situation, and plan a strategic response to the invasion. Going into seclusion allowed him to focus on the crisis at hand without distractions or interruptions. It also demonstrates the gravity of the situation and the need for careful consideration before taking any actions.
2.
The food crisis that existed when the Bolsheviks seized power in 1917 persisted for several years afterward, mostly because
Correct Answer
D. Peasants were given no incentive to produce under War Communism's requisition policies
Explanation
The food crisis that existed when the Bolsheviks seized power in 1917 persisted for several years afterward because peasants were given no incentive to produce under War Communism's requisition policies. This policy involved the government seizing grain from peasants to redistribute it to the urban population and the Red Army. However, since the peasants had no incentive to produce more than what was required by the government, agricultural production declined, leading to food shortages and the persistence of the food crisis.
3.
In 1986, the Soviet Union and Japan had no working peace agreement because of
Correct Answer
B. The Soviet occupation of four northern Japanese islands since World War II
Explanation
The correct answer is the Soviet occupation of four northern Japanese islands since World War II. This is because the Soviet Union occupied the islands of Shikotan, Kunashir, Iturup, and Habomai after World War II, and this occupation created tensions between the Soviet Union and Japan. The two countries were unable to reach a peace agreement because Japan wanted the return of the islands, while the Soviet Union refused to give them up. This issue remained unresolved, leading to the absence of a working peace agreement between the two nations.
4.
In 1926, a United Opposition was formed within the Communist Party. Against whom was this opposition united?
Correct Answer
A. Stalin
Explanation
The correct answer is Stalin. In 1926, a United Opposition was formed within the Communist Party, and it was united against Stalin. This opposition consisted of various members, including Trotsky, Zinoviev, and Kamenev, who were critical of Stalin's leadership and policies. They opposed Stalin's consolidation of power and his deviation from the original ideals of the Communist Party. This opposition eventually led to their expulsion from the party and Stalin's further consolidation of power.
5.
Which of the following were principles adopted at the 1966 23rd Party Congress, led by Brezhnev and Kosygin?
I. An economic program that emphasized defense production and heavy industry
II. A relaxation of artistic and ideological controls
III. An end to the discussion of human rights abuses that occurred under Stalin
Correct Answer
A. I, II
Explanation
At the 1966 23rd Party Congress led by Brezhnev and Kosygin, two principles were adopted. The first principle was an economic program that focused on defense production and heavy industry. This suggests that the Soviet Union aimed to strengthen its military capabilities and promote industrial growth in strategic sectors. The second principle was a relaxation of artistic and ideological controls. This indicates a shift towards allowing more artistic freedom and a loosening of restrictions on ideological expression. Therefore, the correct answer is I, II.
6.
A large subdivision of a Soviet republic, comparable to a province, was known as a(n)
Correct Answer
D. Oblast
Explanation
In the Soviet Union, a large subdivision comparable to a province was known as an oblast. This term refers to an administrative division within a republic, similar to a state or province in other countries. Oblasts were responsible for governing and managing various aspects of the region, including economic development, infrastructure, and social services. They played a crucial role in the centralized governance structure of the Soviet republics.
7.
In the late nineteenth-century Russia, the commune system that was established after the emancipation of the peasantry proved to be relatively unproductive. The main reason for this was because the
Correct Answer
A. Majority of peasants did not have hereditary tenure and therefore had no interest in developing the land
Explanation
The majority of peasants not having hereditary tenure meant that they did not have long-term ownership or control over the land they worked on. This lack of ownership incentive resulted in a lack of interest in investing time, effort, or resources into developing the land. Without the motivation to improve productivity, the commune system became relatively unproductive.
8.
Which of the following was the first country to accept Soviet gold in the period following the 1917 revolution?
Correct Answer
B. Sweden
Explanation
Sweden was the first country to accept Soviet gold in the period following the 1917 revolution.
9.
For what reason was Soviet secret police chief Lavrenti Beria tried and executed in 1953?
Correct Answer
A. Other Soviet leaders felt threatened by his power.
Explanation
Lavrenti Beria was tried and executed in 1953 because other Soviet leaders felt threatened by his power. This suggests that Beria had amassed significant influence and authority, which made the other leaders uneasy. In order to eliminate this perceived threat, they decided to remove him from his position and ultimately execute him.
10.
The New Economic Policy (NEP) declared by Lenin in 1921 was, first and formost, a(n) ___ policy.
Correct Answer
B. Agrarian
Explanation
The New Economic Policy (NEP) declared by Lenin in 1921 was primarily an agrarian policy. This policy aimed to revive the Soviet economy by allowing limited private ownership of land and small-scale farming. It was a departure from the previous War Communism policy, which had led to economic collapse and widespread famine. The NEP focused on incentivizing agricultural production and improving the conditions of the peasantry, as agriculture was seen as the foundation of the Soviet economy. This policy allowed peasants to sell their surplus produce in the open market and encouraged them to increase productivity.
11.
The Rapallo Treaty of 1922 marked the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Soviet Republic and
Correct Answer
A. Germany
Explanation
The Rapallo Treaty of 1922 marked the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Soviet Republic and Germany. This treaty was significant because it allowed both countries to overcome the isolation they faced after World War I and establish political and economic cooperation. The treaty also included secret military provisions that allowed Germany to train its military in Soviet territory, which helped both countries circumvent the restrictions imposed by the Treaty of Versailles. The Rapallo Treaty was a turning point in Soviet-German relations and had long-lasting implications for European politics in the interwar period.
12.
Throughout the Soviet era, the most powerful body within the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU) was the
Correct Answer
C. Politburo
Explanation
The correct answer is Politburo. Throughout the Soviet era, the Politburo was the most powerful body within the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU). It consisted of the most influential members of the party and made decisions on important matters of state. The Politburo had the authority to appoint and dismiss party officials, determine policies, and shape the direction of the Soviet Union. It played a crucial role in the governance of the country and had significant control over political and economic affairs.
13.
The reign of Alexander III (1881-1894) can be most accurately characterized as
Correct Answer
C. A harsh police state designed to re-establish autocracy
Explanation
During Alexander III's reign, he implemented strict measures to suppress any form of opposition and maintain absolute control over the country. He established a harsh police state, which involved increased surveillance, censorship, and the use of secret police to suppress dissent. These measures were aimed at re-establishing autocracy and preventing any challenges to the existing political order. The oppressive nature of the regime further fueled the anger of revolutionaries who sought more significant reforms, contributing to the overall discontent and tensions within the society.
14.
The short-term effect of the 1967 Six-Day War on Soviet foreign relations was
Correct Answer
A. Arab skepticism of Soviet resolve
Explanation
The short-term effect of the 1967 Six-Day War on Soviet foreign relations was Arab skepticism of Soviet resolve. This means that the Arab countries doubted the commitment and reliability of the Soviet Union in supporting them during the conflict. The outcome of the war, where Israel emerged victorious, led to a loss of confidence in the Soviet Union's ability to protect and assist Arab nations. This skepticism had a negative impact on Soviet foreign relations in the region in the immediate aftermath of the war.
15.
Which of the following was NOT an idea that was characteristic of the changing landmarks movement of the 1920s? The
Correct Answer
A. Bolsheviks were the embodiment of the Russian spirit and would achieve the ultimate stability of the nation
Explanation
The changing landmarks movement of the 1920s was characterized by various ideas, such as the belief that the Russian revolution had been halted by the Soviet government and the expectation that the evolution from radicalism to empire would proceed similarly to what happened after the French revolution. Additionally, it was believed that the Russian revolution was fundamentally a nationalist revolution with Slavic roots. However, the idea that the Bolsheviks were the embodiment of the Russian spirit and would achieve the ultimate stability of the nation was not characteristic of the changing landmarks movement of the 1920s.
16.
The USSR's quota-driven command economy was in operation to some degree from the year ___ to the fall of the Soviet Union.
Correct Answer
C. 1929
Explanation
The correct answer is 1929. The quota-driven command economy of the USSR was implemented in 1929 and continued to some degree until the fall of the Soviet Union. This system involved the government setting production targets, known as quotas, for various industries and collectivizing agriculture. It aimed to centralize economic control and promote industrialization, but ultimately led to inefficiencies and economic stagnation. The command economy was a defining feature of the Soviet Union's economic system during this period.
17.
Among the factors that permitted the Bolsheviks' relatively bloodless takeover of the Winter Palace in the fall of 1917, the most significant was
Correct Answer
B. The lack of resistance from from the military
Explanation
The most significant factor that permitted the Bolsheviks' relatively bloodless takeover of the Winter Palace in the fall of 1917 was the lack of resistance from the military. This suggests that the military either supported or did not oppose the Bolsheviks' actions, allowing them to seize control without facing significant opposition. The lack of resistance from the military would have made it easier for the Bolsheviks to carry out their plans and establish their authority without resorting to violence.
18.
The 1961 Vienna meetings between Kennedy and Krushchev were forced primarily on the issue of
Correct Answer
D. Germany and Berlin
Explanation
The 1961 Vienna meetings between Kennedy and Krushchev were primarily focused on the issue of Germany and Berlin. This was a critical topic at the time as Berlin was divided into East and West, with tensions rising between the Soviet Union and the United States. The meetings aimed to address the future of Berlin and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The Cuban missile crisis, nuclear arms reduction, and Communist China's world role were not the main topics of discussion during these meetings.
19.
The primary focus of Stalin's first Five-Year Plan was
Correct Answer
D. An increase in output totals
Explanation
The primary focus of Stalin's first Five-Year Plan was to increase output totals. This means that the main goal of the plan was to significantly increase the overall production and output of goods and resources in the Soviet Union. This would help to rapidly industrialize the country and catch up with the more advanced Western nations. By increasing output totals, Stalin aimed to transform the Soviet Union into a major industrial power and strengthen its economy and military capabilities.
20.
Each of the following was an issue that received significant attention at the 1967 Glassboro Summit between Lyndon Johnson and Premier Kosygin EXCEPT
Correct Answer
C. Germany and Berlin
Explanation
The 1967 Glassboro Summit between Lyndon Johnson and Premier Kosygin addressed several significant issues, including the Middle East, nuclear nonproliferation, and Vietnam. However, Germany and Berlin were not discussed during this summit.
21.
What was the term used for senior members of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union who held the most important positions in the government and who received substantial material benefits in return for their loyalty?
Correct Answer
B. Apparatchiks
Explanation
Apparatchiks were senior members of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union who held important positions in the government and received substantial material benefits in return for their loyalty. They were known for their bureaucratic nature and adherence to party doctrine. They played a crucial role in maintaining the power and control of the Communist Party in the Soviet Union.
22.
Russia's great 19th-century southern trade had its foundation in
Correct Answer
C. The Black Sea port of Odessa
Explanation
The correct answer is the Black Sea port of Odessa. In the 19th century, Russia's southern trade flourished due to its strategic location on the Black Sea. Odessa served as a major port, connecting Russia to international markets and facilitating trade with other countries. The city's favorable geographical position and well-developed infrastructure made it a crucial hub for the transportation of goods, contributing to the growth of Russia's southern trade.
23.
Under the 12th Five-Year Plan, launched in 1985, economic growth was to be accomplished chiefly by
Correct Answer
B. Greater productivity and higher technology
Explanation
Under the 12th Five-Year Plan, launched in 1985, the main focus for achieving economic growth was through greater productivity and higher technology. This means that the plan aimed to increase the efficiency and output of industries and sectors by adopting advanced technology and improving productivity levels. This approach would lead to increased production and competitiveness, ultimately driving economic growth.
24.
The ___ represented the first -- and last -- collaboration between the Soviet government and members of the intelligentsia?
Correct Answer
A. All-Russia Famine Relief Committee
Explanation
The All-Russia Famine Relief Committee is the correct answer because it was the only option that represented a collaboration between the Soviet government and members of the intelligentsia. The committee was formed in 1921 in response to a devastating famine in Russia, and it included members of the intelligentsia who were brought in to help address the crisis. This collaboration was significant because it marked a rare instance of cooperation between the Soviet government and intellectuals, who were often marginalized or persecuted during this time.
25.
At the Potsdam conference of 1945, United States President Truman was not as conciliatory toward Stalin as his predecessor, Roosevelt, had been. The main reason for this was that
Correct Answer
C. Truman knew the atomic bomb had been developed
Explanation
Truman's knowledge of the development of the atomic bomb was the main reason for his lack of conciliation towards Stalin at the Potsdam conference. This knowledge gave Truman a sense of power and leverage in the negotiations, as he knew that the United States possessed a weapon of immense destructive power. This likely made Truman more confident and less willing to make concessions to Stalin, as he believed that the atomic bomb could potentially be used as a deterrent or as a means to assert American dominance in the post-war world.
26.
In 1931, the Central Committee passed a resolution calling for the return of Soviet schools to the old methods, courses, lessons, and themes that had been condemned by the revolution. The reason for this was beacuse
Correct Answer
B. Experiments in education had been branded as leftist deviations
Explanation
The correct answer is "experiments in education had been branded as leftist deviations." This is because the resolution was passed to return Soviet schools to the old methods, courses, lessons, and themes that had been condemned by the revolution. This implies that the experiments in education, which were seen as leftist deviations, were no longer considered acceptable.
27.
Who was the first top Soviet leader to visit the United States?
Correct Answer
B. Krushchev
Explanation
Krushchev was the first top Soviet leader to visit the United States. He visited the United States in 1959 as part of a diplomatic mission during the Cold War. This visit marked a significant moment in the history of Soviet-American relations and was seen as a step towards easing tensions between the two superpowers. Krushchev's visit included meetings with President Eisenhower and visits to various American cities, making it a landmark event in the history of Soviet-US diplomacy.
28.
Which of the following contributed to the overall failure of the revolutionary movement of 1905?
I. Inability to mobilize support in rural areas
II. The splitting of the opposition over the issue of the Duma
III. The return of loyalist armed forces from the Far East
IV. The disabling of communications networks effected by general strikes
Correct Answer
B. II, III
Explanation
The splitting of the opposition over the issue of the Duma and the return of loyalist armed forces from the Far East contributed to the overall failure of the revolutionary movement of 1905. The division within the opposition weakened their collective power and hindered their ability to effectively challenge the existing regime. Additionally, the return of loyalist armed forces from the Far East provided the government with additional support and resources to suppress the revolutionary movement.
29.
The main reason for the slow pace of Gorbachev's early reforms was that he
Correct Answer
B. Needed time to consolidate his power in the party
Explanation
Gorbachev's slow pace of early reforms can be attributed to his need to consolidate his power within the party. This suggests that he had to secure support and loyalty from key members within the party before implementing any significant changes. By taking his time to solidify his position, Gorbachev could ensure that he had the necessary backing to push through reforms without facing strong opposition or potential threats to his leadership. This approach indicates that Gorbachev recognized the importance of internal political dynamics and power struggles within the party, which influenced the speed and effectiveness of his reform agenda.
30.
The original Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, established in 1922, included the ___ republic.
Correct Answer
B. Ukrainian
Explanation
The original Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, established in 1922, included the Ukrainian republic. This can be inferred from the fact that Ukraine was one of the founding members of the USSR and played a significant role in its formation.
31.
Who was elected president of the Russian republic in 1990 and promised to create a market economy in 500 days?
Correct Answer
C. Boris Yeltsin
Explanation
Boris Yeltsin was elected president of the Russian republic in 1990 and promised to create a market economy in 500 days.
32.
Which of the following countries did NOT declare war on the Ottoman Empire in 1912?
Correct Answer
C. Romania
Explanation
Romania did not declare war on the Ottoman Empire in 1912. This can be inferred from the question, which asks for the country that did NOT declare war. Therefore, Romania is the correct answer.
33.
Approximately what percentage of the total population of the Soviet Union was killed during World War II?
Correct Answer
C. 12
Explanation
During World War II, approximately 12% of the total population of the Soviet Union was killed. This was a devastating loss for the country, as it resulted in millions of deaths and widespread destruction. The Soviet Union suffered greatly during the war, both in terms of military casualties and civilian deaths. The high percentage of the population killed highlights the immense human cost of the conflict for the Soviet Union.
34.
Russian history proper can be said to begin
Correct Answer
D. Along the northern shore of the Black Sea and in the steppe beyond
Explanation
The correct answer is along the northern shore of the Black Sea and in the steppe beyond. This answer is supported by the statement in the passage that Russian history proper can be said to begin in the areas along the northern shore of the Black Sea and in the steppe beyond. These regions played a significant role in the early history and development of Russia.
35.
Who was named president of the Soviet Union at a July 2, 1985 session of the Supreme Soviet?
Correct Answer
B. Mikhail Gorbachev
36.
The main difference between the 1924 constitution and the one drafted by Stalin in 1936 was that Stalin's constitution
Correct Answer
B. Explicitly outlawed all parties but the Communists
Explanation
Stalin's constitution in 1936 explicitly outlawed all parties except the Communists. This means that under Stalin's constitution, no other political parties were allowed to exist or participate in the political process. This was a significant departure from the 1924 constitution, which did not explicitly outlaw other parties. By outlawing all parties except the Communists, Stalin consolidated power and ensured that the Communist Party had a monopoly on political control in the Soviet Union.
37.
Though originally an umbrella word applied to Gorbachev's entire reform program came to be applied primarily in reference to
Correct Answer
B. Economic reform
Explanation
The correct answer is economic reform. This is because the question mentions that the term was originally applied to Gorbachev's entire reform program, but later came to be primarily associated with economic reform. This suggests that economic reform was a significant aspect of Gorbachev's reforms and that the term "perestroika" is often used specifically in relation to economic changes.
38.
From the turn of the century, which of the following structures evolved most slowly in Russia?
Correct Answer
C. Govermental
Explanation
The correct answer is "Govermental." This means that among the given options, the structure that evolved most slowly in Russia from the turn of the century is the governmental structure. This suggests that while other aspects such as the economy, society, and culture may have experienced more significant changes and developments, the governmental system in Russia remained relatively stable or progressed at a slower pace during this time period.
39.
Krushchev's 1954 Virgin Lande program can best be described as a(n)
Correct Answer
B. Temporary relief from an agrarian crisis that offered no solution to the problem of productivity
Explanation
The answer suggests that Krushchev's 1954 Virgin Lande program provided temporary relief from an agrarian crisis, but it did not offer a solution to the problem of productivity. This implies that while the program may have temporarily alleviated some of the issues in the agricultural sector, it did not address the underlying problems and did not lead to a long-term improvement in productivity.
40.
Which of the following did NOT become a member of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS)?
Correct Answer
C. Estonia
Explanation
Estonia did not become a member of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The CIS is a regional organization composed of former Soviet Union republics. While Moldova, Armenia, and Kirghizstan joined the CIS, Estonia did not participate. Estonia, along with Latvia and Lithuania, opted not to join the CIS after gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. These countries instead focused on strengthening their ties with Western Europe and pursuing membership in the European Union and NATO.