1.
Describe the historical origins, central ideas and spread of Buddhism.
2.
Describe the causes of the decline of Rome. Explain the impact of the fall of Rome on Western Europe.
3.
Describe the Americas before the Age of Explorations, including the Maya, Aztec and Incan empires.
4.
What was the name of the great cathedral built by Justinian?
Correct Answer
C. Hagia SopHia
Explanation
Hagia Sophia was the name of the great cathedral built by Justinian. It was a significant architectural achievement and is considered one of the greatest Byzantine structures. The name "Hagia Sophia" translates to "Holy Wisdom" in Greek, reflecting its purpose as a place of worship. The cathedral served as the center of Eastern Orthodox Christianity for centuries and later became a mosque and then a museum. It is known for its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and rich history. Constantinople, Hippodrome, and Church of the Apostles are not correct answers as they do not refer to the specific cathedral built by Justinian.
5.
Which of the following is NOT a belief or characteristic of the Roman Catholic church?
Correct Answer
D. Priets may be married.
Explanation
The Roman Catholic church does not allow priests to be married. This is because priests are expected to devote their entire lives to serving God and the church, and marriage is seen as a potential distraction from their religious duties. Celibacy is considered a sacred vow in the Catholic church, and priests are expected to abstain from sexual relationships in order to fully commit themselves to their spiritual calling.
6.
Justinian set up a panel of ten experts to
Correct Answer
B. Compile laws to regulate a complex society.
Explanation
During his reign, Justinian sought to establish a comprehensive legal system that would govern the complex society of the Byzantine Empire. To achieve this, he assembled a panel of ten experts who were tasked with compiling laws. This panel, known as the Corpus Juris Civilis, collected and organized existing Roman laws and legal opinions, resulting in a unified and comprehensive legal code. This compilation played a crucial role in regulating various aspects of society, including property rights, criminal offenses, and civil procedures. Therefore, the correct answer is "compile laws to regulate a complex society."
7.
The Byzantine Empire
Correct Answer
B. Expanded into parts of Italy and Spain under Justinian.
Explanation
The correct answer is "expanded into parts of Italy and Spain under Justinian." This is because Justinian, who ruled from 527 to 565 CE, launched military campaigns that successfully reclaimed parts of Italy and Spain, including cities like Rome and Ravenna. This expansion was a significant achievement for the Byzantine Empire and helped to strengthen its influence in the Mediterranean region.
8.
The Mongols were traditionally
Correct Answer
A. Nomadic horse riders based on tribal communities
Explanation
The Mongols were traditionally nomadic horse riders based on tribal communities. This means that they were a group of people who moved from place to place, relying on horses for transportation and living in tribal communities. This lifestyle allowed them to have a flexible and mobile way of life, which was important for their conquests and military campaigns. Their nomadic lifestyle also influenced their culture and values, such as their horsemanship skills and their strong sense of community within their tribes.
9.
Which of the following is the best description of Mongol territory at its greatest extent?
Correct Answer
B. Across Asia into the Middle East, Russia and Europe; parts of modern day India and China; Eastward as far as the Korean peninsula
Explanation
The Mongol territory at its greatest extent spanned across Asia, reaching into the Middle East, Russia, and Europe. It also included parts of modern-day India and China, and extended eastward as far as the Korean peninsula.
10.
Which of the following was a major accomoplishment of the Sui dynasty?
Correct Answer
A. Construction of the Grand Canal connecting the Huang He and the Yangtze River
Explanation
The major accomplishment of the Sui dynasty was the construction of the Grand Canal connecting the Huang He and the Yangtze River. This canal served as a major transportation route, facilitating trade and communication between northern and southern China. It also played a crucial role in unifying the empire and promoting economic development. The construction of the Grand Canal was a massive engineering feat and a significant achievement in Chinese history.
11.
The chronoligical order of Chinese dynasties was
Correct Answer
B. Qin -> Han -> Sui -> Tang -> Song
Explanation
The correct answer is Qin -> Han -> Sui -> Tang -> Song. This is the correct chronological order of the Chinese dynasties. The Qin dynasty was the first followed by the Han dynasty. After the Han dynasty came the Sui dynasty, followed by the Tang dynasty, and finally the Song dynasty.
12.
Which native Japanese religion has a name meaning "way of the gods"?
Correct Answer
B. Shinto
Explanation
Shinto is the correct answer because it is a native Japanese religion that translates to "way of the gods." Shinto is characterized by the worship of spirits and deities known as kami, and it emphasizes the connection between humans and nature. It is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and has influenced various aspects of Japanese society, including art, architecture, and rituals.
13.
What khanate ruled over the Russian principalities?
Correct Answer
A. Khanate of the Golden Horde
Explanation
The correct answer is the khanate of the Golden Horde. The Golden Horde was a Mongol and Turkic khanate that ruled over the Russian principalities from the 13th to the 15th century. It was established by Batu Khan, the grandson of Genghis Khan, and was known for its control over a vast territory, including parts of Eastern Europe. The Golden Horde played a significant role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of Russia during this period.
14.
China moved away from agricultural production based on wheat and barley after introducing this from Vietnam.
Correct Answer
B. Fast-ripening rice
Explanation
China moved away from agricultural production based on wheat and barley after introducing fast-ripening rice from Vietnam. Fast-ripening rice is a type of rice that has a shorter growing season and can be harvested earlier than traditional rice varieties. This allowed China to increase its rice production and reduce its reliance on wheat and barley. The introduction of fast-ripening rice revolutionized China's agricultural practices and played a significant role in shaping its food production system.
15.
Europe from 500 to 1000 is sometimes referred to as this because many aspects of Roman civilization were lost, such as written language, advanced architectural and building techniques, complex government and access to long-distance trade.
Correct Answer
C. The Dark Ages
Explanation
During the period from 500 to 1000 in Europe, there was a significant decline in various aspects of Roman civilization. This included the loss of written language, advanced architectural and building techniques, complex government systems, and access to long-distance trade. This period is commonly referred to as the Dark Ages because it was characterized by a lack of cultural and intellectual development. The term "Dark Ages" suggests a time of societal regression and decline, highlighting the contrast with the advancements of the Roman Empire and the subsequent Age of Enlightenment.
16.
This became official in 1054 when the Roman Pope and the Patriarch in Constantinople agreed that their religious differences could not be reconciled.
Correct Answer
A. The Great Schism
Explanation
The Great Schism refers to the split between the Roman Pope and the Patriarch in Constantinople in 1054. This event marked the official division between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. The Pope and the Patriarch agreed that their religious differences were irreconcilable, leading to the establishment of two separate branches of Christianity.
17.
Which of the following is not a correct example of interactions among Muslim, Christian, and Jewish societies in Europe, Asia and North Africa?
Correct Answer
C. Muslims ruling in Spain expelled the Christians and Jews after years of persecution
Explanation
During the time of Muslim rule in Spain, known as Al-Andalus, Christians and Jews were actually allowed to practice their religions freely and were often appointed to important positions in the government. This period is known for its religious tolerance and cultural exchange between Muslims, Christians, and Jews. Therefore, the statement that Muslims ruling in Spain expelled the Christians and Jews after years of persecution is not a correct example of interactions among these societies.
18.
These cities were not united politically, but they were well developed. They provided a very important link for long distance trade across the Indian Ocean.
Correct Answer
C. Swahili city-states
Explanation
The Swahili city-states were not united politically, but they were well developed and played a crucial role in facilitating long-distance trade across the Indian Ocean. These city-states, located along the eastern coast of Africa, were known for their thriving trade networks and cultural exchange. They traded goods such as gold, ivory, and spices with merchants from Arabia, Persia, and India. The Swahili city-states were important hubs for the Indian Ocean trade, connecting different regions and facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.
19.
The first great West African kingdom to benefit from the gold-salt trade. The rulers and elites converted to Islam but most others retained their native religions.
Correct Answer
A. Ghana
Explanation
Ghana was the first great West African kingdom to benefit from the gold-salt trade. The rulers and elites of Ghana converted to Islam, while the majority of the population maintained their native religions. This conversion to Islam by the ruling class helped to establish trade connections with the Muslim world, leading to the growth and prosperity of the kingdom.
20.
The Inca civilization was located in what mountain range?
Correct Answer
C. Andes
Explanation
The Inca civilization was located in the Andes mountain range. The Andes is the longest continental mountain range in the world, stretching along the western coast of South America. It is known for its high peaks, including the famous Mount Aconcagua, and its diverse ecosystems. The Inca civilization thrived in this mountainous region, building their empire in what is now modern-day Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and parts of Colombia, Chile, and Argentina. The Andes provided the Inca people with natural defenses, fertile land for agriculture, and access to important resources such as minerals and water.
21.
Used for record keeping by the Inca.
Correct Answer
B. Quipu
Explanation
The quipu is a recording device used by the Inca civilization for record keeping. It consists of a series of knotted strings that represent numbers and other information. Each knot and its position on the string have a specific meaning, allowing the Inca to keep track of various data such as census figures, tax records, and historical events. The quipu was an important tool for the Inca to maintain their administrative and bureaucratic systems.
22.
Which of the following is not one of the 5 pillars of Islam?
Correct Answer
D. Communion
Explanation
Communion is not one of the 5 pillars of Islam. The 5 pillars of Islam are Faith (Shahada), Alms-giving (Zakat), Fasting (Sawm), Pilgrimage (Hajj), and Prayer (Salat). Communion is a Christian sacrament, not a pillar of Islam.
23.
All of the following contributed to the end of medieval Europe except
Correct Answer
D. The growing power of the Church
Explanation
The growing power of the Church did not contribute to the end of medieval Europe. The Church's influence and authority continued to grow during this time period, particularly with the rise of the papacy and the establishment of the Holy Roman Empire. The Crusades, the Black Death, and the Hundred Years' War were significant factors that led to the decline and transformation of medieval Europe. The Crusades brought about political, economic, and social changes, while the Black Death caused a massive loss of life and disrupted the feudal system. The Hundred Years' War weakened the power of feudal lords and contributed to the rise of centralized nation-states.
24.
During the Tang and Song dynasties in China,
Correct Answer
A. Foot binding was practiced and the scholar-genry class grew.
Explanation
During the Tang and Song dynasties in China, foot binding was a common practice among women. This involved tightly binding the feet of young girls to prevent them from growing properly, resulting in a deformed and small foot. This practice was seen as a symbol of beauty and status. Additionally, during this time, the scholar-gentry class, which consisted of educated officials and scholars, grew in influence and power. They played a significant role in the government and administration of the empire.
25.
What division of Islam believes that only a relative of Muhammad is qualified to be a caliph?
Correct Answer
C. Shi'a
Explanation
Shi'a is the division of Islam that believes that only a relative of Muhammad is qualified to be a caliph. This belief is based on the concept of Imamate, which holds that the caliphate should be passed down through the bloodline of Muhammad's family. Shi'a Muslims consider Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Muhammad, and his descendants as the rightful successors to the Prophet. They reject the legitimacy of the caliphs who came after Ali and believe that the imams have a divine connection and are infallible.
26.
Who replaced the "rightly guided" caliphs?
Correct Answer
C. Umayyads
Explanation
The Umayyads replaced the "rightly guided" caliphs. The "rightly guided" caliphs refer to the first four caliphs after the death of Prophet Muhammad, who were Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali. The Umayyads came into power after the assassination of Ali and established their own caliphate. They moved the capital from Medina to Damascus and expanded the Islamic empire. They ruled from 661 to 750 CE before being overthrown by the Abbasids.
27.
What city was sacked by the Mongols in 1258?
Correct Answer
B. Baghdad
Explanation
In 1258, the city of Baghdad was sacked by the Mongols. This event, known as the Siege of Baghdad, was a devastating attack in which the Mongols, led by Hulagu Khan, captured and destroyed the city. The Mongols pillaged and looted Baghdad, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. This event marked the end of the Abbasid Caliphate and had a significant impact on the region's history.
28.
This is the pilgrimage that each Muslim strives to make at least once in a lifetime.
Correct Answer
D. Hajj
Explanation
The correct answer is hajj because it is the pilgrimage that every Muslim aims to complete at least once in their lifetime. Hajj is considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a religious duty for Muslims. It involves traveling to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and performing specific rituals and acts of worship. The significance of hajj lies in its ability to bring Muslims closer to Allah, promote unity among believers, and provide spiritual purification and renewal.
29.
This is the Muslim holy book and is considered to be the true word of God only in its original Arabic version.
Correct Answer
B. Qur'an
Explanation
The Qur'an is considered the Muslim holy book and is believed to be the true word of God. It holds a significant place in Islam and is revered by Muslims worldwide. The Qur'an is believed to have been revealed to the Prophet Muhammad in Arabic, and therefore the original Arabic version is considered the most authentic and accurate. Translations of the Qur'an exist in various languages, but the original Arabic version is considered the true and unchanged word of God.
30.
How were conquered peoples treated by the Muslim Empire?
Correct Answer
A. Their religions were tolerated, but restrictions and taxes were imposed.
Explanation
Conquered peoples in the Muslim Empire were allowed to practice their own religions, but they faced certain restrictions and taxes. This means that while they were not forced to convert to Islam, they were still subjected to certain limitations and financial burdens. This policy of religious tolerance with imposed restrictions and taxes was a common practice in many empires throughout history, aimed at maintaining control over conquered territories while allowing a degree of religious freedom.
31.
Which of the following best explains why the Chinese built the Great Wall and the Grand Canal?
Correct Answer
B. The Great Wall was built to protect against invasions, while the Grand Canal was meant to provide an alternative transportation route between the north and the south.
Explanation
The Great Wall was constructed to protect against invasions, as it served as a defensive barrier against nomadic tribes from the north. On the other hand, the Grand Canal was built to provide an alternative transportation route between the north and the south, facilitating trade and communication between different regions of China.
32.
Which statement about the Sahara is most closely associated with the West African civilizations of Ghana and Mali?
Correct Answer
B. Salt mined in the Sahara was exchanged for gold from the West African civilizations.
Explanation
The statement that best explains the association between the West African civilizations of Ghana and Mali and the Sahara is that salt mined in the Sahara was exchanged for gold from the West African civilizations. This trade relationship between the Sahara and the West African civilizations was a significant aspect of their economic and cultural development. The Sahara was rich in salt deposits, which were highly valued in West Africa. In exchange for the salt, the West African civilizations traded their abundant gold resources. This trade route facilitated the growth and prosperity of these civilizations, as well as the exchange of ideas and cultural influences.
33.
Which speaker is expressing an economic motive for the Crusades?
Correct Answer
D. Speaker D: An investment in ships and knights will yield control of profitable trade routes.
Explanation
Speaker D is expressing an economic motive for the Crusades by mentioning that investing in ships and knights will result in gaining control over profitable trade routes. This suggests that the speaker sees the Crusades as a means to expand economic power and wealth through trade.
34.
One way the Incas adapted their environment was by
Correct Answer
A. Building a network of roads through the mountains
Explanation
The Incas adapted their environment by building a network of roads through the mountains. This allowed them to connect different regions of their empire and facilitate trade, communication, and transportation. The mountainous terrain posed a challenge, but the Incas ingeniously constructed roads and bridges using their advanced engineering skills. These roads were an integral part of their empire, enabling the movement of goods, armies, and messengers across vast distances. The road system also played a crucial role in the governance and administration of the empire, allowing the Incas to maintain control over their territories and efficiently manage their resources.
35.
Who is a famous European who traveled to the court of the Great Khan in China and wrote about his experiences?
Correct Answer
C. Marco Polo
Explanation
Marco Polo is a famous European who traveled to the court of the Great Khan in China and wrote about his experiences. He embarked on a journey to China in the 13th century and spent several years in the Mongol Empire, serving as an official in the court of Kublai Khan. Polo's book, "The Travels of Marco Polo," became one of the most influential travelogues in history, providing valuable insights into the culture, geography, and politics of China and other Asian countries. His writings played a crucial role in introducing Europeans to the wonders of the East and sparked a wave of exploration and trade between Europe and Asia.
36.
Which of the following is correct about the Yuan dynasty in China?
Correct Answer
A. The Mongols refused to reinstate civil service examinations because they wanted to keep Mongolians at the top of the social hierarchy.
Explanation
During the Yuan dynasty in China, the Mongols refused to reinstate civil service examinations. This decision was made because they wanted to maintain Mongolians at the top of the social hierarchy. By not allowing the examinations, they ensured that ethnic Chinese individuals would not have the opportunity to rise in social status and potentially challenge Mongol rule. This policy reflected the Mongols' desire to maintain their dominance and control over the Chinese population.
37.
Roman channels that brought water to cities and towns
Correct Answer
A. Aqueducts
Explanation
Aqueducts were Roman channels that were used to transport water to cities and towns. They were a remarkable engineering feat of the ancient world, designed to overcome the natural obstacles of the landscape and bring water from distant sources. Aqueducts played a crucial role in providing a reliable water supply for drinking, bathing, and sanitation purposes. They were built with a series of arches and elevated structures to ensure a steady flow of water downhill. The construction of aqueducts demonstrated the advanced engineering skills of the Romans and their ability to create sophisticated infrastructure systems.
38.
One way in which the civilizations of Mesopotamia, the Egyptians, and the Chinese were smiliar is that each
Correct Answer
A. Developed extensive writing systems
Explanation
The correct answer is "Developed extensive writing systems". This is because all three civilizations, Mesopotamia, the Egyptians, and the Chinese, had complex writing systems that were used for various purposes, such as record-keeping, communication, and literature. These writing systems played a crucial role in the development and preservation of their respective cultures and histories.
39.
Which development most enabled early peoples to form permanent settlements?
Correct Answer
A. Advances in agricultural production
Explanation
Advances in agricultural production most enabled early peoples to form permanent settlements. With the ability to cultivate crops and domesticate animals, early humans were able to settle in one place and establish a stable food supply. This allowed them to build permanent structures and develop complex societies. Agricultural advancements also led to population growth, as more food could be produced to support larger communities. Overall, the ability to produce food consistently and in larger quantities played a crucial role in the transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled civilizations.
40.
The Ten Commandments of the ancient Hebrews has had the greatest influence on the development of Western
Correct Answer
B. Moral and ethical teachings
Explanation
The Ten Commandments of the ancient Hebrews has had the greatest influence on the development of Western moral and ethical teachings. These commandments, which include principles such as not stealing, not lying, and not committing murder, have formed the basis of ethical codes and moral values in Western societies. They have influenced the legal systems, social norms, and personal conduct of individuals, shaping the moral fabric of Western civilizations.
41.
The diaspora, the dispersing of the Jewish people, refers to their
Correct Answer
A. Exile from their homeland
Explanation
The correct answer is "Exile from their homeland." The diaspora refers to the scattering or dispersion of the Jewish people from their original homeland, typically referring to their exile from ancient Israel and subsequent migrations throughout history. This term is often used to describe the Jewish communities living outside of Israel.
42.
The Neolithic Revolution (development of sedentary agriculture) occurred first in
Correct Answer
B. The Middle East
Explanation
The Neolithic Revolution, which refers to the transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture and settled communities, occurred first in the Middle East. This region, also known as the Fertile Crescent, witnessed the domestication of plants and animals around 10,000 BCE. The availability of fertile land, suitable climate, and the presence of wild cereal grains like wheat and barley contributed to the development of agriculture in this area. The Middle East's early adoption of agriculture had a profound impact on human civilization, leading to the rise of complex societies and the development of tools, pottery, and other innovations.
43.
The earliest known writing (called Cuneiform) in a civilization first developed in
Correct Answer
C. Mesopotamia
Explanation
The correct answer is Mesopotamia. Mesopotamia is widely recognized as the birthplace of civilization and is known for its development of writing systems. Cuneiform, the earliest known form of writing, was developed in Mesopotamia around 3200 BCE. This system of writing was used to record various aspects of Mesopotamian society, including laws, religion, and literature. Mesopotamia, located in present-day Iraq, was home to several ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. These civilizations made significant contributions to the development of writing, mathematics, agriculture, and many other fields.
44.
A "dynasty" in Chinese history was
Correct Answer
A. A family that passed the imperial title from generation to generation
Explanation
In Chinese history, a "dynasty" refers to a family that passed the imperial title from generation to generation. This means that the ruling power and authority were inherited within a specific family lineage, ensuring continuity and stability in governance. It allowed for the establishment of long-lasting political systems and traditions, with power and control concentrated within the ruling family. This system played a significant role in shaping Chinese history and culture.
45.
Match Mesopotamia with the appropriate river(s)
Correct Answer
C. Tigris & EupHrates Rivers
Explanation
The correct answer is Tigris & Euphrates Rivers. Mesopotamia is an ancient region located between these two rivers, which are known as the Tigris and Euphrates. This region was home to one of the earliest civilizations in human history, known as the Mesopotamian civilization. The fertile land between these rivers allowed for agriculture and the development of complex societies.
46.
In which civilization did they believe in the "Mandate of Heaven"?
Correct Answer
C. China
Explanation
The correct answer is China because the "Mandate of Heaven" was a belief system in ancient China. It was the idea that the ruler of China was chosen by the gods and had the divine right to rule. This concept played a significant role in Chinese politics and dynastic succession, as it provided justification for the overthrow of a ruling dynasty if they were perceived as losing the favor of the gods. The belief in the "Mandate of Heaven" was central to the Chinese political and social order for centuries.
47.
What was the Columbian Exchange?
Correct Answer
A. Trade of crops, animals and diseases between the New and Old Worlds.
Explanation
The Columbian Exchange refers to the trade of crops, animals, and diseases between the New World (the Americas) and the Old World (Europe, Africa, and Asia) following Christopher Columbus' voyages. This exchange had a significant impact on both sides of the Atlantic. It introduced new crops and animals to the Americas, such as wheat, rice, horses, and cattle, while also bringing diseases like smallpox, measles, and influenza that devastated indigenous populations. Similarly, the Old World received new crops like potatoes, tomatoes, and corn, which became staples in their diets. This exchange of goods and diseases had far-reaching consequences for both regions, shaping their economies, cultures, and populations.
48.
What was the caste system?
Correct Answer
A. In ancient India, when one is born into a social class, one can't change his or her status unless reincarnated into a better one.
Explanation
The caste system in ancient India was a social system where individuals were born into a specific caste or social class and were unable to change their status unless they were reincarnated into a higher caste in their next life. This system determined an individual's occupation, social interactions, and overall place in society. It was a rigid system that enforced strict social hierarchy and limited social mobility.
49.
Where did the Renaissance originate?
Correct Answer
D. Italy
Explanation
The Renaissance originated in Italy. Italy was the birthplace of this cultural and intellectual movement that spanned from the 14th to the 17th century. It was characterized by a revival of interest in the classical world, a focus on humanism, and advancements in art, literature, and science. Italy's city-states, such as Florence and Rome, were centers of intellectual and artistic activity, attracting scholars, artists, and patrons who contributed to the flourishing of the Renaissance.
50.
Which of the following best describes the Renaissance?
Correct Answer
B. Rebirth of classical civilization, glorification of men, and the present
Explanation
The Renaissance was a period of time in Europe that marked a revival of interest in the classical civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome. It was characterized by a renewed focus on humanism, the arts, and intellectual pursuits. During this time, there was a shift towards valuing the achievements of men, as well as a celebration of the present world and the potential for human progress. This is reflected in the answer choice "rebirth of classical civilization, glorification of men, and the present."