AP World History Exam Prep MCQ Test

The Sahara desert separates the northern coast of Africa from the rest of the continent. The Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world, spanning across several countries in North Africa. It acts as a physical barrier, with its vast expanse of sand and extreme climate making it difficult for movement and habitation. The desert effectively separates the Mediterranean coast from the more fertile regions of Africa, such as the Sahel and sub-Saharan Africa.

Bantu speaking peoples immigrated into East Africa starting around the first millennium B.C.E. This migration is known as the Bantu expansion, which was a significant movement of people speaking Bantu languages across Africa. They spread their agricultural and ironworking skills, as well as cultural and linguistic influences, throughout the region. The Bantu migration played a crucial role in shaping the population and cultural landscape of East Africa.

Ghana was the first commercial state to appear in West Africa. This is because Ghana was strategically located along the trade routes between the Sahara desert and the forests of West Africa, allowing it to control and profit from the trade of gold, salt, and other valuable commodities. The Ghana Empire, also known as the Wagadou Empire, emerged around the 6th century and reached its peak in the 11th century. Its wealth and prosperity were largely based on its control of trade, making it the first commercial state in the region.

Zen was the most popular Buddhist sect among the aristocracy because it emphasized direct experience and intuitive understanding, which appealed to the intellectual and philosophical interests of the aristocracy. Zen also offered a practical approach to spiritual enlightenment through meditation and mindfulness, making it an attractive choice for the aristocracy who sought personal growth and self-improvement. Additionally, Zen's emphasis on simplicity and austerity resonated with the aristocratic values of discipline and self-control.

A massive typhoon helped the Japanese defeat the Mongols in 1281. The typhoon, known as the "kamikaze" or divine wind, destroyed a large portion of the Mongol fleet that was attempting to invade Japan. This natural disaster played a crucial role in preventing the Mongols from successfully invading and conquering Japan. The typhoon was seen as a fortunate event by the Japanese, who believed it was a divine intervention protecting their land.

Samurai were often hired by local aristocrats to protect their land and interests. They were skilled warriors who followed a code of conduct known as Bushido, which emphasized loyalty, honor, and duty. The samurai class emerged in feudal Japan and held significant power and influence. They served as the military elite and were responsible for maintaining order and defending their lord's territories. Their role as protectors made them a valuable asset to the aristocrats who relied on their expertise in combat and warfare.

The main difference between Vietnamese and Chinese society lies in the area of women's rights. Vietnamese society has historically been more progressive in terms of gender equality, with women having greater rights and opportunities compared to Chinese society. This can be attributed to various cultural, historical, and political factors that have shaped the development of each society.

Sati was the Hindu female deity who was the symbol of fertility. Sati is a goddess in Hindu mythology associated with marital devotion and fertility. She is often depicted as a beautiful and virtuous woman. Sati is revered as the ideal wife and her worship is believed to bring blessings of fertility and a happy married life.

During the Tang period, all of the above options were introduced. Cotton cultivation and weaving techniques were advanced, making it a major industry. Steel production also improved, leading to the creation of high-quality swords and armor. Additionally, gunpowder was discovered and initially used for medicinal purposes, but later became a crucial component in warfare and the invention of firearms.

Before the arrival of Islam, most early African religious beliefs included a belief in a single creator god, a belief in a form of afterlife, and a focus on ancestors and lineage. This means that all of the mentioned beliefs were present in the early African religious practices.

During the Song dynasty, the civil service exam was based upon Confucian texts. Confucianism was the dominant ideology of the time, and the exam aimed to select individuals who were well-versed in Confucian principles and teachings. The exam tested candidates' knowledge of Confucian classics, such as the Analects and the Book of Rites, as well as their ability to apply Confucian principles to governance and administration. This emphasis on Confucianism in the civil service exam reflected the Song dynasty's dedication to Confucian ideals and its belief in the importance of moral governance.

During the Tang Dynasty, China experienced a period of expansion and prosperity. As a result, the Japanese began to view the Tang Dynasty as a threat due to its growing power and influence. The Tang Dynasty's military strength and advancements in technology posed a potential challenge to Japan's own ambitions in East Asia. This perception of the Tang Dynasty as a threat likely led to increased tensions and conflicts between China and Japan during this time.

Mamallapuram, also known as Mahabalipuram, is known for its rich Indian architecture and art. The town is famous for its cave temples, which are carved out of rock and showcase intricate sculptures and carvings. Additionally, the shore temples in Mamallapuram are another example of Indian architecture, with their unique Dravidian style and stunning coastal location. Therefore, both options A and C are correct as they represent different examples of Indian architecture and art visible in Mamallapuram.

Great noble families in Japan were called "daimyo." The term "daimyo" refers to powerful feudal lords who held vast amounts of land and had significant political and military influence during the feudal period in Japan. These daimyo families played a crucial role in shaping the country's history and were often involved in conflicts and power struggles. The term "shoen" refers to a different concept in Japanese feudalism, which denotes privately owned agricultural estates.

The downfall of the Srvijaya kingdom was caused by both a devastating defeat by Cola and the shifting of the trade routes to the east. The defeat by Cola weakened the kingdom and left it vulnerable to further attacks. Additionally, the shifting of trade routes to the east meant that the kingdom lost its position as a major trading hub, leading to economic decline and further weakening of the kingdom. These two factors combined ultimately led to the downfall of the Srvijaya kingdom.

Rajputs were aristocratic Hindu clans who fought hard to resist Islamic incursions into India. They were known for their bravery, honor, and military skills, and played a significant role in defending their land against foreign invaders. Rajputs formed powerful alliances and established their own kingdoms, fiercely protecting their territories from outside forces. Their resistance against Islamic incursions highlights their determination to preserve their culture, traditions, and religion in the face of external threats.

After the fall of the Han dynasty, Chinese society experienced a shift in philosophical beliefs. Many Chinese individuals sought salvation through philosophies that promised heavenly salvation, indicating a growing interest in spiritual and religious practices. However, the statement that Philosophical Daoism waned in popularity is not true. In fact, Daoism continued to thrive and gain followers during this period, with its principles and practices influencing various aspects of Chinese culture and society.

The correct answer is trade along the Silk Road. The Kushan kingdom became wealthy due to their participation in the trade network known as the Silk Road. This ancient trade route connected various regions of Asia, including China, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean. The Kushans benefited from this trade by facilitating the exchange of goods, such as silk, spices, precious metals, and other luxury items. This trade network allowed the Kushan kingdom to accumulate wealth and establish economic prosperity.

Swahili culture is a mixture of African and Arabian influences. This is because the Swahili people, who primarily inhabit the eastern coast of Africa, have a long history of interaction and trade with Arabian traders and settlers. This has resulted in the blending of African and Arabian customs, languages, and architectural styles, among other cultural elements. The Swahili language itself is a testament to this fusion, as it incorporates elements of both Arabic and Bantu languages. Overall, the African and Arabian influences have played a significant role in shaping the unique and vibrant Swahili culture.

The Yayoi were an ancient Japanese culture that first settled on Kyushu, the southernmost of the four main islands of Japan. They are known for bringing knowledge of rice cultivation to Japan, which had a significant impact on the development of agriculture in the region. The Yayoi people were a mix of the indigenous Jomon people and new arrivals from the Asian continent, resulting in a blending of cultures and traditions. Therefore, all of the statements about the Yayoi being true is correct.

During the Heian period in Japan, the Fujiwara clan held significant power and influence. They were a noble family that gained control over the imperial court by strategically marrying their daughters to emperors. As a result, the Fujiwara clan effectively ruled behind the scenes, with the emperors serving as figureheads. This period is known for its strong Fujiwara influence, as they controlled the government, held key positions, and shaped the political landscape of Japan. Therefore, the Fujiwara clan is the correct answer as they ruled Japan during the Heian period.

The correct answer is "both B and C". Mahayana Buddhism believed that nirvana could be achieved through devotion, as well as through attention to behavior. Additionally, Mahayana Buddhism attempted to provide hope to the masses. This means that both the beliefs in achieving nirvana and providing hope to the masses are true for Mahayana Buddhism.

Tamerlane ruled a powerful empire from Samarkand in the mid 1300s. He was a Turco-Mongol conqueror and founder of the Timurid Empire. Tamerlane's empire stretched from present-day Turkey to India and was known for its military prowess and cultural achievements. He was a skilled strategist and led numerous successful military campaigns, establishing himself as one of the most powerful rulers of his time. Tamerlane's rule brought stability and prosperity to his empire, making him a significant figure in history.

A kampong refers to a traditional southeast Asian village. These villages are typically found in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. Kampongs are characterized by their close-knit communities, simple housing structures, and agricultural activities. They often have a strong sense of community and are known for their traditional customs and ways of life.

Approximately 20 percent of Japanese land is arable. This means that only a fifth of the total land area in Japan is suitable for cultivation and farming activities. The remaining 80 percent consists of mountains, forests, and other non-arable areas. The limited availability of arable land in Japan poses challenges for agriculture and food production in the country, leading to a heavy reliance on imports to meet the domestic demand for food.

During the Tang dynasty, the Chinese imperial control expanded to include Tibet, Xinjiang, and the southern provinces below Yangzte. This means that all of the above areas were added to Chinese imperial control during this time.

Kanishka is considered the greatest of the Kushan leaders because of his significant contributions to the empire. He expanded the Kushan territory, established trade routes, and promoted cultural exchange. Kanishka's reign was marked by religious tolerance and support for Buddhism, which led to the development of Gandhara art. He also convened the Fourth Buddhist Council, which helped in the preservation and spread of Buddhist teachings. Kanishka's achievements and impact on the Kushan Empire make him the most notable and influential leader among the Kushan rulers.

Shotoku Taishi introduced the seventeen-article constitution to Japan. The seventeen-article constitution, also known as the Constitution of Seventeen Articles, was a set of moral and political guidelines that aimed to establish a centralized government and promote ethical behavior among the ruling class. Shotoku Taishi, a statesman and prince regent of Japan during the Asuka period, played a significant role in shaping Japan's political and social systems. He is credited with promoting Buddhism, Confucianism, and Chinese-style governance in Japan, and his efforts in introducing the seventeen-article constitution were instrumental in shaping the country's political landscape.

Wu Zao was the empress of China. This means that she held a position of power and authority as the wife of the emperor. As empress, she would have played a significant role in the governance and administration of the empire.

During the Song dynasty, China had a population of approximately 40 million. This suggests that the population of China during that time was quite large.

The correct answer is Kalidasa because he is a renowned ancient Indian poet and playwright who is widely believed to have written The Cloud Messenger. This epic poem tells the story of a yaksha (a celestial being) who is exiled from his homeland and sends a message to his beloved through a passing cloud. Kalidasa's works are highly regarded for their lyrical beauty, rich imagery, and profound themes, making him one of the most celebrated writers in Indian literature.

Osaka is not one of the main Japanese home islands. The main Japanese home islands are Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku, and Hokkaido. Osaka, on the other hand, is a city located on the island of Honshu.

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The correct answer is Yuan because the Mongols, led by Kublai Khan, established the Yuan dynasty in China after successfully conquering the country. This dynasty lasted from 1271 to 1368 and marked a significant period of Mongol rule in China. The Mongols introduced various administrative and cultural changes during this time, including the adoption of a centralized government and the promotion of trade along the Silk Road.

Japanese clans are called "uji."

Lineage is considered the "basic building block" of African society because it refers to the social structure based on descent from a common ancestor. Lineages are kinship groups that trace their ancestry through the male or female line, and they form the foundation of African communities. Lineage determines social status, inheritance rights, and responsibilities within the community. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining traditions, resolving conflicts, and organizing economic activities. Therefore, lineage is essential in shaping African society and maintaining social cohesion.

Stelae were carved stone pillars, typically used as monuments or markers, that were erected in various ancient civilizations. These pillars often displayed inscriptions, artwork, or important information about rulers, events, or religious beliefs. They were commonly found in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Mesoamerica, among other regions. Stelae served as a way to commemorate and preserve historical and cultural significance, and they provide valuable insights into the civilizations that created them.

"Romance of the Three Kingdoms" is considered the great Chinese historic epic because it is a classic novel that depicts the historical events and political struggles during the Three Kingdoms period in ancient China. It is widely regarded as one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature and has had a significant influence on Chinese culture and literature. The novel is known for its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and its portrayal of the rise and fall of various kingdoms and warlords during a turbulent period in Chinese history.

In many African societies, lineage was matrilineal, meaning that descent and inheritance were traced through the mother's line. This means that children belonged to their mother's lineage and inherited property and social status from their mother's side of the family. This was a significant aspect of the social structure in these societies and had implications for kinship, marriage, and inheritance patterns.

Minamoto Yoritomo is the correct answer because he was the founder and first shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate in Japan. After the Genpei War in the late 12th century, Yoritomo established a military government known as the shogunate, which centralized power in the hands of the samurai class. This marked the beginning of a new era in Japanese history, with the shogunate system lasting for several centuries and shaping the political and social structure of the country.

Kami are spirits that are believed to reside in nature, including trees and mountains. In Japanese Shintoism, kami are considered to be sacred and are worshipped as deities. They are believed to possess divine power and influence over various aspects of life, such as fertility, weather, and protection. The concept of kami is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and has been a significant part of their religious beliefs for centuries.

The haiku is a form of Japanese poetry that focuses on images of nature. It is composed of seventeen syllables divided into lines of five, seven, and five syllables. Therefore, all of the given statements about the haiku are true.

The Berbers were the first to carry goods across the Sahara desert from Carthage to areas further south. The Berbers were a group of indigenous people who inhabited North Africa and had extensive knowledge of the desert terrain. They were skilled traders and navigators, using camel caravans to transport goods such as gold, salt, and slaves across the vast desert. Their expertise in desert travel allowed them to establish trade routes that connected Carthage to the interior regions of Africa, contributing to the economic and cultural exchange in the region.

A Buddhist text is considered to be the first printed book because the oldest known printed book, called the Diamond Sutra, was a Buddhist text. It was printed in China during the Tang Dynasty in the year 868 AD using woodblock printing. This printing technique involved carving the text onto wooden blocks, inking them, and then pressing them onto paper. The Diamond Sutra is a significant Buddhist scripture and its printing marked a major milestone in the history of book production, making it the first printed book.

The Malays established a colony on Madagascar.

Iron ore first stimulated Kushite trade activity. Iron ore was a valuable resource that was in high demand during the Kushite civilization. The Kushites were able to mine and trade iron ore, which allowed them to establish trade networks and gain economic prosperity. The availability of iron ore played a significant role in the growth and development of the Kushite civilization.

The Jomon were the earliest known Neolithic inhabitants of Japan and are named for the cord pattern of their pottery. This suggests that their pottery was decorated with a distinctive cord-like pattern, which became a defining characteristic of their culture. The Yayoi, on the other hand, were a later group of people who introduced wet rice cultivation to Japan. Therefore, the Jomon is the correct answer as they fit the description given in the question.

Zhu Yuanzhang is the correct answer because he was the founder of the Ming dynasty. He was a peasant who rose to power during the turbulent times of the late Yuan dynasty in China. After successfully overthrowing the Mongol rule, Zhu Yuanzhang established the Ming dynasty in 1368 and became its first emperor, taking the name Hongwu. Under his rule, the Ming dynasty experienced significant political and social reforms, economic growth, and cultural advancements, making it one of the most prosperous periods in Chinese history.

Genghis Khan means "universal ruler". This term refers to the title given to Genghis Khan, the founder and first Great Khan of the Mongol Empire. As the leader of the Mongol Empire, Genghis Khan had immense power and authority, ruling over a vast territory that stretched across Asia and Europe. The term "universal ruler" accurately reflects Genghis Khan's role as a leader who had control and influence over a significant portion of the known world during his time.

Champa was a culture residing on the Gulf of Tonkin that was heavily influenced by Indian culture. This can be seen through various aspects such as their art, architecture, religion, and language. Champa adopted Hinduism and Buddhism from India, and their temples and sculptures were influenced by Indian architectural styles. The Chams also traded with India, further facilitating the exchange of cultural ideas and practices. Therefore, Champa is the correct answer as it best represents a culture on the Gulf of Tonkin that was based on Indian culture.