Classical Civilizations Test Review - WH

Which geographic features most influenced the development of independent Greek city-states?

• Wide open plains

• Dense rainforests

• Mountainous archipelago

• Vast deserts

Answer explanation

The mountainous archipelago of Greece created natural barriers, leading to the development of independent city-states. The rugged terrain and numerous islands fostered isolation and distinct political entities, unlike wide plains or deserts.

What was the capital city of the Byzantine Empire?

• Rome

• Constantinople

• Alexandria

• Athens

Answer explanation

The capital city of the Byzantine Empire was Constantinople, established by Emperor Constantine I. It served as a vital cultural and political center, distinguishing it from other cities like Rome, Alexandria, and Athens.

Which monumental church did Justinian I commission?

• Hagia Sophia

• Parthenon

• St. Peter’s Basilica

• The Blue Mosque

Answer explanation

Justinian I commissioned the Hagia Sophia in 537 AD as a cathedral in Constantinople. It is renowned for its massive dome and is a key example of Byzantine architecture, unlike the other options listed.

Where did Eastern Orthodoxy spread beyond the Byzantine Empire?

• The Middle East, Eastern Europe, Russia

• Spain and France

• Eastern Europe, Germany, Russia

• India and China

Answer explanation

Eastern Orthodoxy spread primarily to the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Russia, influenced by the Byzantine Empire's cultural and religious reach. Other regions listed did not experience significant Orthodox expansion.

Which location on the map was the site of the classical civilization that developed the concept of zero and advanced mathematics?

• India

• Greece

• Egypt

• China

Answer explanation

India is the birthplace of the concept of zero and made significant advancements in mathematics, distinguishing it from other ancient civilizations like Greece, Egypt, and China.

How did Cyrus the Great rule and keep peace in the Persian Empire during the 6th century BC?

• with enforcement of his legal codes

• with taxation for his building projects

• with violence from his military's tactics

• with tolerance for his people's cultures

Answer explanation

Cyrus the Great ruled with tolerance for his people's cultures, allowing diverse groups within the Persian Empire to maintain their traditions and practices. This approach fostered loyalty and stability, contributing to peace.

All of the following describe society during the Pax Romana EXCEPT —

• A. Education was encouraged.

• B. Greek culture was ignored.

• C. Class divisions separated citizens.

• D. Roman cities were centers of culture.

Answer explanation

During the Pax Romana, Greek culture was highly influential and integrated into Roman society, making option B incorrect. Education, class divisions, and cultural centers were indeed characteristic of this period.

During the Maurya Empire, which of the following occurred in India?

• the rise of Sikhism

• the spread of Buddhism

• the introduction of Islam

• the prohibition of Hinduism

Answer explanation

During the Maurya Empire, Buddhism spread significantly, largely due to Emperor Ashoka's support. The other options, such as the rise of Sikhism and the introduction of Islam, occurred later in Indian history.

Which of the following was a defining characteristic of the Roman Empire?

• isolationism

• direct democracy

• city planning

• development of agricultural

Answer explanation

City planning was a defining characteristic of the Roman Empire, evident in their advanced urban layouts, infrastructure, and public buildings, which facilitated trade, governance, and military organization.

Which Eastern philosophical tradition contributed to the development of classical civilization during the Han Dynasty in China?

• Confucianism

• Shintoism

• Sikhism

• Stoicism

Answer explanation

Confucianism significantly influenced the Han Dynasty, promoting values like hierarchy, morality, and social harmony, which were essential for governance and societal structure during this period.