1.
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 located in Constantinople and is considered one of the most significant architectural achievements of the Byzantine Empire. Hagia Sophia served as a cathedral for nearly a thousand years before being converted into a mosque and later into a museum. Its grandeur and innovative design, with its massive dome and intricate mosaics, have made it an iconic symbol of Byzantine architecture.
2.
What was the leading bishop called in the Byzantine Empire?
Correct Answer
D. Patriarch
Explanation
In the Byzantine Empire, the leading bishop was called the patriarch. The patriarch held a position of great authority and was responsible for overseeing the religious affairs of the empire. This title was distinct from that of the Pope, who held authority over the Western Christian Church. The patriarch played a crucial role in the governance and administration of the Byzantine Church, and their influence extended beyond religious matters to political and social spheres as well.
3.
"...the Greeks (Byzantines) led us to the buildings where they ___________________, and we knew not whether we were in heaven or on earth. For on earth there is no such splendor or such beauty, and we are at a loss how to describe it. We only know that God dwells there among men and...we cannot forget that beauty." -from the Primary Chronicle
Which phrase would best fit in the blank?
Correct Answer
A. Worship their God
Explanation
The phrase "worship their God" would best fit in the blank. The passage describes the Greeks (Byzantines) leading the narrator to buildings where they worship their God. The narrator is in awe of the splendor and beauty of the place, and believes that God dwells there among men. This suggests that the Greeks (Byzantines) were engaging in religious practices and the buildings were places of worship.
4.
"My opinion is that now is a poor time for flight, even though it bring safety. For any man who has seen the light of day will aslo die, but one who has been an emperor cannot endure to be a fugitive. If now you wish to go, Emperor, nothing prevents you. There is the sea, there are the steps to the boats. But take care that after you are safe, you do not find that you would gladly exchange that safety for death."
Who would have said this?
Correct Answer
D. Theodora
Explanation
Theodora would have said this. The passage suggests that the speaker is addressing an emperor and advising them against fleeing. Theodora was the wife of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, and she was known for her strong influence and political savvy. The passage aligns with Theodora's character and her role as an advisor to 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 marry. This is a characteristic of the church as priests are expected to remain celibate and devoted solely to their religious duties.
6.
Ivan III began calling himself
Correct Answer
B. Czar
Explanation
Ivan III began calling himself "czar" because it was a title that he believed symbolized his authority and power as the ruler of Russia. The term "czar" is derived from the Latin word "caesar," which was used to refer to the Roman emperors. By adopting this title, Ivan III sought to position himself as the rightful successor to the Byzantine Empire and establish Russia as a major world power. The use of the term "czar" also helped to differentiate Ivan III from other European rulers who were referred to as "king" or "emperor."
7.
Justinian I became emperor in
Correct Answer
B. 527
Explanation
Justinian I became emperor in 527. This date marks the beginning of Justinian's reign as the Byzantine Emperor. He succeeded his uncle, Justin I, and ruled until his death in 565. Justinian is known for his efforts to restore the Roman Empire and his major accomplishments include the codification of Roman law, the construction of the Hagia Sophia, and his military campaigns to reclaim lost territories. His reign is considered a significant period in Byzantine history.
8.
Justinian set up a panel of ten experts to
Correct Answer
B. Compile laws to regulate a complex society.
Explanation
During the reign of Justinian, he established a panel of ten experts with the purpose of compiling laws to regulate a complex society. This panel, known as the Corpus Juris Civilis or the Justinian Code, was responsible for gathering and organizing existing laws, as well as creating new ones, in order to provide a comprehensive legal framework for the Byzantine Empire. This compilation of laws played a significant role in shaping the legal system of the empire and had a lasting impact on legal codes in later civilizations.
9.
The Byzantine Empire
Correct Answer
B. Expanded into parts of Italy and Spain under Justinian.
Explanation
During the reign of Justinian, the Byzantine Empire expanded its territories into parts of Italy and Spain. This expansion was achieved through military campaigns led by Justinian's generals, such as Belisarius, who successfully conquered regions like Italy, North Africa, and parts of Spain. This territorial expansion not only increased the size of the empire but also allowed the Byzantines to exert their influence and control over these newly acquired territories. Therefore, the statement that the Byzantine Empire expanded into parts of Italy and Spain under Justinian is a correct explanation based on historical facts.
10.
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 as their primary mode of transportation. They lived in tribal communities, which suggests that they had a social structure based on kinship and shared ancestry. This nomadic lifestyle allowed them to adapt to different environments and engage in activities such as herding animals. Overall, this answer accurately describes the traditional way of life for the Mongols.
11.
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 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. This answer accurately describes the vast geographical reach of the Mongol Empire, which was one of the largest land empires in history.
12.
Which of the following best matches this quote? "A woman ruler is like a hen crowing."
Correct Answer
C. Confucian inspired
Explanation
Confucianism is a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of hierarchy and order in society. This quote suggests that a woman ruler is seen as unnatural or inappropriate, comparing her to a hen crowing, which is considered unusual. This aligns with Confucian teachings that advocate for male dominance and the belief that women should be submissive and fulfill traditional gender roles. Therefore, the quote is best matched with the Confucian inspired option.
13.
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 played a crucial role in facilitating trade and transportation between northern and southern China, enhancing economic development and cultural exchange. It also contributed to the centralization of power and control by the Sui dynasty, as it allowed for easier movement of troops and supplies. The construction of this canal was a massive engineering feat and a significant achievement in Chinese history.
14.
The chronoligical order of Chinese dynasties was
Correct Answer
B. Han -> Sui -> Tang -> Song
Explanation
The correct chronological order of Chinese dynasties is Han, Sui, Tang, and Song. The Han dynasty was the longest reigning dynasty in Chinese history, followed by the Sui dynasty which unified China after a period of division. The Tang dynasty then came into power, known for its cultural and economic prosperity, followed by the Song dynasty which continued the advancements in arts, literature, and technology. This order reflects the historical sequence of these dynasties in Chinese history.
15.
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." It is a spiritual belief system that focuses on the worship of nature, ancestors, and various deities. Shinto emphasizes purity, harmony with nature, and the importance of rituals and ceremonies. It has been an integral part of Japanese culture and history for centuries.
16.
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 later 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 became a powerful and influential state in Eastern Europe. The Golden Horde played a significant role in shaping the history and culture of Russia during this period.
17.
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 period, allowing for multiple harvests in a year. This innovation increased agricultural productivity and efficiency, making rice a more viable and profitable crop for China. As a result, China shifted its focus from wheat and barley to fast-ripening rice as the primary agricultural product.
18.
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 decline in many aspects of Roman civilization. This included the loss of written language, advanced architectural and building techniques, complex government, and access to long-distance trade. This period is often referred to as the Dark Ages because of the lack of progress and the decline in societal development during this time.
19.
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 Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church in 1054. The Roman Pope and the Patriarch in Constantinople acknowledged that their religious differences were irreconcilable, leading to the formal separation of the two churches. This event marked a significant division in Christianity, with the Western Church following the Pope in Rome and the Eastern Church following the Patriarch in Constantinople.
20.
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
21.
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. They played a crucial role in facilitating long-distance trade across the Indian Ocean. The city-states, located along the eastern coast of Africa, had access to valuable commodities such as gold, ivory, and spices, which made them important trading hubs. They had established trade networks with various regions, including the Middle East, India, and China. This allowed for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, contributing to the prosperity and development of the Swahili city-states.
22.
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, but most of the population still practiced their native religions. This conversion to Islam by the ruling class helped to establish trade connections with Muslim merchants from North Africa and the Middle East, which further enhanced Ghana's wealth and power.
23.
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, located in South America, stretch along the western coast for over 4,300 miles. The Inca Empire, which was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America, thrived in the Andes region from the 13th to the 16th century. The mountainous terrain provided natural defenses and resources for the Inca civilization, allowing them to establish a vast and powerful empire. The Andes mountain range played a crucial role in shaping the culture, economy, and history of the Inca civilization.
24.
Used for record keeping by the Inca.
Correct Answer
B. Quipu
Explanation
The quipu was a system of knotted strings used by the Inca for record keeping. Each knot and its position on the string represented different information such as numbers, dates, and events. The quipu was an important tool for the Inca to keep track of their resources, taxes, and other administrative matters. It was a unique and efficient method of record keeping that allowed the Inca to maintain a centralized system of governance.
25.
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), Prayer (Salat), Alms-giving (Zakat), Fasting (Sawm), and Pilgrimage (Hajj). Communion is a Christian sacrament and not a part of Islamic religious practices.
26.
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. While the Church did play a significant role in medieval Europe, particularly in terms of its influence on society and politics, it did not directly contribute to the end of the medieval period. Factors such as the Crusades, the Black Death, and the Hundred Years' War had a more direct impact on the decline and transformation of medieval Europe. The Church's power and influence continued to grow during this time, rather than contributing to its end.
27.
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 practiced, which involved the tight binding of women's feet to achieve a small and delicate appearance. This practice became a symbol of beauty and social status. Additionally, during this time, the scholar-gentry class grew in prominence. This class consisted of educated individuals who held government positions and were highly respected in society. The scholar-gentry class played a significant role in the administration and governance of the empire. Therefore, the correct answer is that foot binding was practiced, and the scholar-gentry class grew.
28.
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 idea of divine succession, where the caliphate should be passed down through the bloodline of Muhammad. Shi'a Muslims consider Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Muhammad, and his descendants as the rightful successors to the caliphate. They believe that the caliph should possess both political and religious authority, and that this authority should be inherited within the family of Muhammad.
29.
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. After the period of the "rightly guided" caliphs, the Umayyad dynasty came into power and established their own caliphate. They ruled from 661 to 750 CE and shifted the capital from Medina to Damascus. The Umayyads were known for their expansionist policies and their establishment of a hereditary system of succession, which was a departure from the early Islamic tradition of choosing caliphs based on merit.
30.
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 is known as the Siege of Baghdad and marked the end of the Abbasid Caliphate. The Mongols, led by Hulagu Khan, captured and destroyed the city, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. This event had significant historical and cultural implications, as it marked the decline of the Islamic Golden Age and the destruction of one of the greatest cities of the time.
31.
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". Hajj is the pilgrimage that every Muslim aims to undertake at least once in their lifetime. It is a religious duty and one of the Five Pillars of Islam. During Hajj, Muslims travel to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, where they perform specific rituals and ceremonies at various sacred sites. It is considered a significant spiritual journey and a means of seeking forgiveness, purification, and closeness to Allah.
32.
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 only in its original Arabic version. It is a sacred text that contains the teachings and revelations of Allah as conveyed to the Prophet Muhammad. Muslims regard the Qur'an as the ultimate source of guidance and authority in matters of faith, morality, and daily life. It is recited and memorized by millions of Muslims around the world and is highly revered as the literal word of God.
33.
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 meant that they were not treated as equal citizens with Muslims, but they were not forced to give up their religions and convert to Islam either. The policy of toleration allowed for some degree of religious freedom, but the imposition of restrictions and taxes served as a means of control and reinforcement of Muslim authority over the conquered peoples.
34.
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 Chinese built the Great Wall to protect against invasions, while the Grand Canal was meant to provide an alternative transportation route between the north and the south.
35.
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 connection between the Sahara and the West African civilizations of Ghana and Mali is that salt mined in the Sahara was exchanged for gold from the West African civilizations. This trade relationship between the two regions was a key aspect of their economic and cultural interactions. The Sahara was rich in salt deposits, which were highly valued in West Africa. In exchange for salt, the West African civilizations provided gold, which was abundant in their region. This trade route helped to facilitate the growth and prosperity of both civilizations.
36.
Which speaker expresses a Muslim perspective
Correct Answer
A. Speaker A: We must fight to keep control of Jerusalem in the hands of those who believe in Allah.
Explanation
Speaker A expresses a Muslim perspective by emphasizing the importance of keeping control of Jerusalem in the hands of those who believe in Allah. This suggests a religious motivation and a desire to protect and preserve the city as a sacred place for Muslims.
37.
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 stating that investing in ships and knights will lead to control of profitable trade routes. This suggests that the speaker sees the Crusades as an opportunity to gain wealth and control over important trade routes, highlighting the economic benefits that can be achieved through military action.
38.
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, facilitate trade and communication, and efficiently move armies and resources. The construction of these roads required great engineering skills and allowed the Incas to overcome the challenges posed by the rugged Andean terrain. The road system played a crucial role in the administration and expansion of the Inca Empire, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive in their environment.
39.
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 the correct answer because he was a famous European traveler who journeyed to the court of the Great Khan in China and documented his experiences in his book, "The Travels of Marco Polo". His writings provided valuable insights into the culture, geography, and trade routes of the East, making him one of the most renowned explorers in history.
40.
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
The correct answer is that the Mongols refused to reinstate civil service examinations because they wanted to keep Mongolians at the top of the social hierarchy. This suggests that the Mongols did not want to allow ethnic Chinese to have the opportunity to rise in social status through passing the civil service examinations. This decision reflects their desire to maintain control and dominance over the Chinese population during the Yuan dynasty.