South and SE Asia Review

Which of the following are island countries located in Southeast Asia? Select TWO correct answers.

• Singapore

• Vietnam

• Philippines

• India

Answer explanation

Singapore and the Philippines are island countries in Southeast Asia. Vietnam is a mainland country, and India is located in South Asia, not Southeast Asia.

What geographic feature was important to the development of the Mauryan Empire? Select All that apply.

• The Himalayas

• The Ganges River

• The Kunlun Mountains

• The Arabian Sea

Answer explanation

The Himalayas provided natural protection, while the Ganges River is crucial for agriculture and trade, supporting the growth of the Mauryan Empire.

What do people in rural areas of South and Southeast Asia primarily depend on for income?

• Technology and manufacturing

• Agriculture and fishing

• Tourism and trade

• Mining and forestry

Answer explanation

In rural areas of South and Southeast Asia, the economy largely relies on agriculture and fishing, as these activities provide essential livelihoods for the majority of the population, unlike technology or tourism.

What challenges do urban areas face as more people move there?

• More green spaces

• Decreased job opportunities

• Pollution and overcrowding

• Improved infrastructure

Answer explanation

Urban areas face challenges like pollution and overcrowding as more people move in, leading to strain on resources and infrastructure. This option accurately reflects the negative impacts of urbanization, unlike the other choices.

What common belief is shared by both Buddhism and Hinduism regarding the afterlife?

• A. A single lifetime leads to judgment

• B. Rebirth in a new form based on past actions

• C. An eternal paradise without suffering

• D. Ascension to a heavenly realm

Answer explanation

Both Buddhism and Hinduism share the belief in rebirth, where an individual's next life form is determined by their past actions (karma). This concept emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and the moral consequences of one's deeds.

How did Islam spread to South and Southeast Asia? Select two.

• Through military conquest

• Through missionaries from Europe

• By travelers from Africa

• By Muslim merchants in the early 700s

Answer explanation

Islam spread to South and Southeast Asia significantly through Muslim merchants in the early 700s, who established trade routes and cultural exchanges, facilitating the introduction of Islamic beliefs and practices.

How did trade contribute to the Gupta Empire's economy?

• It led to increased military power

• It focused solely on local markets

• It connected them with Southeast Asia and China

• It restricted exports of textiles

Answer explanation

Trade significantly enhanced the Gupta Empire's economy by establishing connections with Southeast Asia and China, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas, which contributed to economic prosperity.

In what way do the teachings of both Buddhism and Hinduism promote ethical behavior?

• By encouraging strict adherence to rituals

• By focusing on personal wealth

• By promoting the idea that actions have consequences for future lives

• By advocating for isolation from society

Answer explanation

Both Buddhism and Hinduism teach that actions have consequences, influencing future lives. This belief encourages individuals to act ethically, as their deeds directly affect their spiritual journey and rebirth.

What is subsistence agriculture?

• Growing crops for sale in markets

• Farming that provides enough food only for the farmer's family

• Large-scale farming for export

• Agriculture that uses modern technology

Answer explanation

Subsistence agriculture is defined as farming that provides enough food only for the farmer's family, rather than for sale or export. This type of agriculture focuses on self-sufficiency.

What major challenge does India face regarding its population?

• A. declining birth rate

• B. high literacy rate

• C. overcrowding in urban areas

• D. aging population

Answer explanation

India faces significant overcrowding in urban areas due to its large population, leading to challenges in infrastructure, housing, and services. This is a major concern compared to the other options listed.