Unit 4 Quiz

Which dynasty sponsored Zheng He’s voyages?

• Ming

• Yuan

• Qing

• Song

Answer explanation

The Ming dynasty sponsored Zheng He's voyages in the early 15th century, aiming to expand trade and establish Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean. The other dynasties listed did not sponsor these expeditions.

What was the primary goal of Zheng He’s voyages?

• Conquer new lands

• Spread Christianity

• Establish Chinese dominance and diplomacy

• Find a faster route to India

Answer explanation

Zheng He's voyages aimed to establish Chinese dominance and enhance diplomatic relations through trade and cultural exchange, rather than conquest, religion, or finding new trade routes.

Vasco da Gama was the first European to sail directly from Europe to which region?

• China

• India

• Japan

• The Americas

Answer explanation

Vasco da Gama was the first European to sail directly from Europe to India in 1498, establishing a sea route that connected Europe to Asia, which was significant for trade and exploration.

Which of the following was a major outcome of Vasco da Gama’s voyage?

• Established Portuguese dominance in the Indian Ocean

• Led to Spain’s first world empire

• Discovered the Americas

• Unified China and India

Answer explanation

Vasco da Gama's voyage in 1498 established a sea route to India, allowing Portugal to dominate trade in the Indian Ocean, which was a significant outcome of his exploration.

What was Christopher Columbus originally trying to find when he set sail in 1492?

• A direct sea route to India and Asia

• A passage to Africa

• The Fountain of Youth

• A way to China through the Arctic

Answer explanation

Christopher Columbus set sail in 1492 seeking a direct sea route to India and Asia, aiming to access the lucrative spice trade. His journey ultimately led to the discovery of the Americas instead.

Zheng He’s fleet was notable for what characteristic?

• Large wooden treasure ships

• Fast-moving, small warships

• The first steam-powered boats

• Their use of Greek triremes

Answer explanation

Zheng He’s fleet was characterized by its large wooden treasure ships, which were designed for long voyages and carrying valuable cargo, distinguishing them from smaller warships and other types of vessels.

Vasco da Gama’s route to India required him to sail around which continent?

• North America

• South America

• Africa

• Australia

Answer explanation

Vasco da Gama sailed around Africa to reach India, navigating the Cape of Good Hope. This route was crucial for establishing a sea trade route to India, making Africa the correct answer.

Which European country sponsored Vasco da Gama’s expedition?

• Spain

• Portugal

• England

• France

Answer explanation

Vasco da Gama's expedition was sponsored by Portugal, which aimed to establish a sea route to India. This was part of Portugal's broader efforts during the Age of Discovery to expand trade and influence.

What was the Treaty of Tordesillas?

• An agreement dividing the world between Spain and Portugal

• A treaty ending conflicts between Spain and China

• A peace agreement between Portugal and the Ottoman Empire

• A document recognizing Zheng He as the ruler of the Indian Ocean

Answer explanation

The Treaty of Tordesillas, signed in 1494, was an agreement that divided newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal, establishing their respective spheres of influence in the Americas and beyond.

Columbus believed he had reached which region when he landed in the Caribbean?

• India

• China

• West Indies

• Australia

Answer explanation

Columbus mistakenly believed he had reached the West Indies when he landed in the Caribbean, thinking he was near Asia. This is why the correct answer is the West Indies.