Unit 2: Review

Feudalism was a system of land ownership and duties in medieval Europe. Why was it important during the Middle Ages?

• It provided a structured society and stability.

• It led to constant warfare and instability.

• It was a system of democratic governance.

• It promoted industrialization and trade.

Answer explanation

Feudalism was crucial in the Middle Ages as it established a hierarchical structure, ensuring social order and stability. This system of land ownership and duties helped maintain peace and organization in a time of frequent conflict.

Feudalism was primarily a ______ system. How did the social hierarchy work?

• economic

• political

• cultural

• religious

Answer explanation

Feudalism was primarily a political system, as it was based on the relationships between lords and vassals, where land ownership and loyalty defined social hierarchy and governance.

What was scarce and valuable in Japan and at times would cause conflict?

• Gold

• Rice

• Silk

• Tea

Answer explanation

Rice was a staple food and a measure of wealth in Japan. Its scarcity could lead to conflicts over land and resources, making it a valuable commodity that often sparked disputes among communities.

Which of the following best describes the geography of Japan?

• A country with vast deserts

• An island nation with mountainous terrain

• A landlocked country with plains

• A peninsula with tropical climate

Answer explanation

Japan is best described as an island nation with mountainous terrain, as it consists of four main islands and has significant mountain ranges, unlike the other options which do not accurately represent its geography.

Which of the following were major achievements of the Maya, Aztec, and Inca?

• Advanced architectural structures and cities

• Development of a complex writing system

• Invention of the wheel

• Establishment of vast trade networks

Answer explanation

The Maya, Aztec, and Inca are known for their advanced architectural structures and cities, such as pyramids and temples. They did not develop a complex writing system like the Maya alone, nor did they invent the wheel.

The Magna Carta was a significant historical document. What was its importance?

• It established the principle of absolute monarchy.

• It limited the power of the king and established certain legal rights.

• It was a peace treaty between England and France.

• It was a religious text outlining the duties of the clergy.

Answer explanation

The Magna Carta was crucial as it limited the king's power and established legal rights for individuals, laying the groundwork for modern democracy and the rule of law.

The Roman Catholic Church played a significant role in people's lives during the Middle Ages by:

• Providing spiritual guidance and governance

• Leading military campaigns

• Inventing new technologies

• Establishing trade routes

Answer explanation

The Roman Catholic Church provided spiritual guidance and governance, influencing daily life, moral values, and community structure during the Middle Ages, unlike the other options which do not reflect its primary role.

Why was it important for manors to be self-sufficient?

• To reduce dependency on external resources

• To increase trade with neighboring regions

• To focus on industrial development

• To encourage urbanization

Answer explanation

Manors needed to be self-sufficient to reduce dependency on external resources, ensuring they could sustain themselves without relying on trade or outside help, especially during times of instability.

Which of the following were the farming techniques in Maya, Aztec, and Inca civilizations?

• Terrace farming, Chinampas, and Slash-and-burn

• Hydroponics and Aquaponics

• Greenhouse farming and Vertical farming

• Crop rotation and Monoculture

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Terrace farming, Chinampas, and Slash-and-burn' as these techniques were used by the Maya (terrace farming), Aztecs (chinampas), and Incas (slash-and-burn) for effective agriculture in their environments.

What were monasteries? What happened to them over time?

• Monasteries were religious communities that became centers of learning and culture over time.

• Monasteries were ancient marketplaces that evolved into modern shopping centers.

• Monasteries were military bases that were abandoned over time.

• Monasteries were royal palaces that were converted into museums.

Answer explanation

Monasteries were indeed religious communities that played a crucial role in preserving knowledge and culture throughout history, especially during the Middle Ages, making the first answer the correct choice.