Test: The Making of a Global World - 2 - UPSC MCQ

The Silk Route was a series of ancient trade networks that connected China and the Far East with countries in Europe and the Middle East. These became some of the most traded goods between China and its Western trading partners.

Topic in NCERT: Silk Routes Link the World

Line in NCERT: "The name 'silk routes' points to the importance of West-bound Chinese silk cargoes along this route."

During the 16th century, European sailors found sea routes, that linked the furthermost parts of the world. They crossed the western ocean and reached America and also many other regions of the world.Hence, we can say that the world was shrinking at that time mainly because of the European Sailors.

Topic in NCERT: Conquest, Disease and Trade

Line in NCERT: "The pre-modern world shrank greatly in the sixteenth century after European sailors found a sea route to Asia and also successfully crossed the western ocean to America."

Answer:
The disease named Rinderpest had a significant impact on people's livelihood and local economies, particularly in Africa. Here is a detailed explanation:
Rinderpest:
Rinderpest is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals. It is characterized by high fever, severe diarrhea, and high mortality rates among infected animals.
Impact on People's Livelihood:
Rinderpest had a direct impact on people's livelihoods, particularly those who relied on livestock farming for their income and sustenance. Here's how it affected their livelihoods:
1. Loss of Livestock: Rinderpest caused a significant loss of livestock due to high mortality rates among infected animals. This resulted in a loss of income and food source for many farmers and herders.
2. Disruption of Livestock Trade: The disease also disrupted the trade of livestock, as infected animals were not allowed to be transported or sold. This had a negative impact on the income of livestock traders and affected the local economy.
3. Decreased Agricultural Productivity: Livestock, such as cattle, play a crucial role in agriculture by providing draft power for farming activities. The loss of livestock due to Rinderpest resulted in a decrease in agricultural productivity, further affecting people's livelihoods.
Impact on Local Economy:
Rinderpest had a significant impact on the local economy, particularly in Africa. Here's how it affected the local economy:
1. Loss of Export Revenue: Many African countries heavily rely on the export of livestock and livestock products. The outbreak of Rinderpest led to a decrease in livestock exports, resulting in a loss of export revenue for these countries.
2. Reduction in Food Security: Livestock products, such as milk and meat, are important sources of nutrition for many communities. The loss of livestock due to Rinderpest resulted in a reduction in food security, leading to increased vulnerability and poverty in affected areas.
3. Disruption of Trade Networks: Rinderpest outbreaks often resulted in the imposition of trade restrictions on livestock and livestock products. This disrupted the trade networks within and between countries, leading to economic hardships for local communities.
In conclusion, the disease named Rinderpest had a severe impact on people's livelihoods and local economies, particularly in Africa. The loss of livestock, disruption of livestock trade, decreased agricultural productivity, loss of export revenue, reduction in food security, and disruption of trade networks were some of the key consequences of this disease.

Topic in NCERT: Rinderpest, or the Cattle Plague

Line in NCERT: "In Africa, in the 1890s, a fast-spreading disease of cattle plague or Rinderpest had a terrifying impact on people's livelihoods and the local economy."

Fabled City of Gold
Answer: C. El Dorado
The fabled city of gold, known as El Dorado, has captured the imaginations of explorers and treasure hunters for centuries. It is a legendary city believed to be filled with immense wealth and riches. Here is a detailed explanation of El Dorado:
1. Definition:
- El Dorado refers to a mythical city or kingdom that was said to be located in the Americas.
- The name "El Dorado" translates to "the golden one" in Spanish.
2. Origin of the Legend:
- The legend of El Dorado originated during the Spanish colonization of the Americas in the 16th century.
- It was believed that the indigenous people of South America, particularly in the region of present-day Colombia, performed rituals where their new ruler would cover himself in gold dust and dive into a sacred lake.
3. Search for El Dorado:
- The story of El Dorado sparked numerous expeditions by Spanish conquistadors and adventurers who sought to find the city and claim its treasures.
- Famous explorers like Gonzalo Pizarro, Francisco de Orellana, and Sir Walter Raleigh embarked on expeditions in search of El Dorado but failed to find it.
4. Symbolic Meaning:
- Over time, El Dorado became more of a metaphorical concept representing an unattainable paradise or a hidden treasure.
- It symbolizes the pursuit of wealth, power, and the allure of the unknown.
5. Modern Interpretation:
- Today, El Dorado is considered a legend rather than a real place.
- It has inspired numerous works of literature, art, and film, further perpetuating its mystique.
In conclusion, El Dorado remains a captivating legend associated with the search for unimaginable wealth and hidden treasures. While it may not exist in reality, its allure continues to captivate our imagination and fuel the spirit of adventure.

Topic in NCERT: Conquest, Disease and Trade

Line in NCERT: "Many expeditions set off in search of El Dorado, the fabled city of gold."

The corn laws were abolished by the government because:The laws raised the food prices and were meant to favour domestic producers.

The laws imposed steep import duties and hence,made import of grain from abroad very costly affair despite the shortage of food supply.

Topic in NCERT: A World Economy Takes Shape

Line in NCERT: "Unhappy with high food prices, industrialists and urban dwellers forced the abolition of the Corn Laws."

Indentured Migration
Indentured migration refers to the practice of recruiting laborers who would work under a contract for a certain period of time in exchange for passage to a new country or region. These migrants were typically from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and were seeking better opportunities in their new destination.
Important Destination for Indentured Migrants
The Caribbean island was an important destination for indentured migrants. Here's why:
- Opportunity for Work: The Caribbean islands, including places like Jamaica, Trinidad, and Guyana, offered opportunities for labor-intensive industries such as plantation agriculture. Indentured migrants were often recruited to work on sugar plantations, in mining operations, or in other agricultural enterprises.
- British Colonization: Many Caribbean islands were colonized by European powers, particularly the British. The British Empire relied heavily on indentured labor to support their colonial economic ventures. As a result, significant numbers of indentured migrants were brought to the Caribbean to work on plantations and contribute to the development of these colonies.
- Cultural Diversity: Indentured migration to the Caribbean resulted in a diverse mix of cultures and ethnicities. Migrants came from various parts of the world, including India, China, Africa, and Europe. This cultural diversity continues to shape the social fabric of the Caribbean region today.
- Legacy of Indentured Labor: The impact of indentured migration can still be seen in the Caribbean, particularly in terms of the ethnic and cultural makeup of the population. Many Caribbean countries have communities with Indian or Chinese heritage, which can be traced back to the indentured laborers who arrived in the region.
In conclusion, the Caribbean island was an important destination for indentured migrants due to the opportunities for work, British colonization, cultural diversity, and the lasting legacy of indentured labor in the region.

Topic in NCERT: Indentured Labour Migration from India

Line in NCERT: "The main destinations of Indian indentured migrants were the Caribbean islands (mainly Trinidad, Guyana and Surinam), Mauritius and Fiji."

• Refrigerated ships represented a significant advancement in technology, enabling the transport of perishable goods, such as meat, over long distances while keeping them fresh.
• Instead of sending live animals, they were slaughtered in countries like America or Australia.
• The slaughtered meat was then frozen and shipped to Europe.
• This new method of shipping reduced transportation costs and made meat more affordable and accessible for people in Europe.

Topic in NCERT: Role of Technology (Fig: 9)

Line in NCERT: "Meat being loaded on to the ship, Alexandra, Illustrated London News, 1878. Export of meat was possible only after ships were refrigerated"

Answer:
The group of powers collectively known as the Axis power during the Second World War were:
A: Germany, Italy, Japan
Here is a detailed explanation of the Axis powers during World War II:
1. Germany:
- Led by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, Germany was a major power in Europe during World War II.
- Hitler's aggressive expansionist policies, including the invasion of Poland, triggered the war.
2. Italy:
- Led by Benito Mussolini and the Fascist Party, Italy was one of Germany's main allies during the war.
- Mussolini sought to restore Italy to its former Roman glory and joined forces with Germany in the belief of creating a new European order.
3. Japan:
- The Empire of Japan, under Emperor Hirohito, joined the Axis powers in 1940.
- Japan sought to establish dominance in the Pacific region and expand its empire through military conquests, including the attack on Pearl Harbor.
These three countries formed the core of the Axis powers, collaborating closely and coordinating their military strategies during the war. Their alliance was based on shared ideologies, territorial ambitions, and a desire to challenge the existing world order. The Axis powers were ultimately defeated by the Allied forces, led by countries such as the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom.

Topic in NCERT: Rebuilding a World Economy: The Post-war Era

Line in NCERT: "The Second World War broke out a mere two decades after the end of the First World War. It was fought between the Axis powers (mainly Nazi Germany, Japan and Italy) and the Allies (Britain, France, the Soviet Union and the US)."

Henry Ford: The Pioneer of Mass Production
Introduction:
Henry Ford is widely recognized as the pioneer of mass production. His innovative techniques revolutionized the manufacturing industry and set the foundation for modern industrial practices. This response will delve into the reasons why Henry Ford is considered the pioneer of mass production.
Key Points:
1. Assembly Line: Ford introduced the concept of the assembly line in the early 20th century. This system involved dividing the production process into smaller, standardized tasks performed by specialized workers. It drastically increased efficiency and reduced production time.
2. Model T: Ford's famous Model T automobile, first introduced in 1908, was the epitome of mass production. It was the first affordable car for the middle-class population, thanks to Ford's innovative manufacturing techniques. By implementing the assembly line, Ford was able to reduce the production time of a single car from 12.5 hours to just 1.5 hours.
3. Economies of Scale: Ford's mass production methods allowed for economies of scale, as the increased output led to lower production costs. This enabled Ford to lower the price of his cars, making them accessible to a wider market.
4. Standardization: Ford standardized parts and components in his manufacturing process. This meant that each car was identical, making it easier to produce and maintain. Standardization also facilitated the replacement of parts, reducing repair costs and increasing efficiency.
5. Influence on Other Industries: Ford's mass production techniques were not limited to the automotive industry. His methods and ideas spread to other sectors, including consumer goods and electronics. The concept of mass production became a fundamental principle of modern industrial manufacturing.
6. Legacy: Henry Ford's contributions to mass production and industrial innovation have had a lasting impact on the world. His methods have shaped modern manufacturing practices and continue to influence industries today.
Conclusion:
Henry Ford's introduction of the assembly line, his development of the Model T, and his emphasis on standardization and economies of scale solidify his status as the pioneer of mass production. His contributions revolutionized the manufacturing industry, making products more affordable and accessible to a wider population. Ford's legacy continues to resonate in the modern world, as his innovative techniques are still fundamental to industrial manufacturing practices.

Topic in NCERT: Rise of Mass Production and Consumption

Line in NCERT: "A well-known pioneer of mass production was the car manufacturer Henry Ford."

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the transportation of goods across vast distances, particularly by ships, was primarily carried out by low-paid workers from regions like southern Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. These workers were often employed in harsh conditions and played a crucial role in the global trade network.

Topic in NCERT:  A World Economy Takes Shape

Line in NCERT: "It was transported by railway, built for that very purpose, and by ships which were increasingly manned in these decades by low-paid workers from southern Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean."