Forest Society And Colonialism -Olympiad Level MCQ, Class 9 SST - Class 9 MCQ

Forests give us a mixture of things to satisfy our different needs — fuel, fodder, leaves, trees suitable for building ships or railways, trees that can provide hard wood. Forest products like roots, fruits, tubers, herbs are used for medicinal purposes, wood for agricultural implements like yokes, ploughs etc. Forests provide shelter to animals and birds. They also add moisture to atmosphere. Rainfall is trapped in forest lands.

Gunda Dhur was an important leader of the rebellion. 
In 1905, the colonial government imposed laws to reserve two-thirds of the forests, stop shifting cultivation, hunting and collection of forest produce. People of many villages were displaced without any notice or compensation. For long, villagers had been suffering from increased land rents and frequent demands for free labour and goods by colonial officials. The terrible famines in 1899–1900 and again in 1907–1908 made the life of people miserable. They blamed the colonial rule for their sorry plight. The initiative of rebellion was taken by the Dhurwas of the Kanger forest, where reservation first took place.

To determine which trees latex can be collected from, we need to understand what latex is and which trees produce it.
Definition:
- Latex is a milky white fluid that is found in the cells of certain plants. It is a natural polymer and is commonly used in the production of rubber.
Trees that produce latex:
- Rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis): The rubber tree is the most well-known tree that produces latex. Latex is collected by tapping the tree trunk and allowing the fluid to flow into a collection vessel. This latex is then processed to make rubber.
- Eucalyptus tree: Some species of eucalyptus trees, such as the Corymbia citriodora, produce latex. However, the latex produced by eucalyptus trees is not commonly used for commercial purposes.
- Pine tree: Pine trees do not produce latex. They produce resin, which is a sticky substance used for protection and healing purposes.
- Deodar tree (Cedrus deodara): The deodar tree does not produce latex. It is a type of cedar tree that is native to the Himalayas.
Conclusion:
- Latex can be collected from the rubber tree.
- Latex is not collected from the eucalyptus tree, pine tree, or deodar tree.
Therefore, the correct answer is option A: Rubber tree.

Java is famous for:

• Rice production: Java is known for its extensive rice production. The island has a favorable climate and fertile soil, making it a suitable region for rice cultivation.



• Mining industries: Java is rich in mineral resources, including coal, gold, and copper. The island is home to several mining industries, contributing to its economic growth.



• Huge population: Java is the most populous island in Indonesia and also one of the most densely populated regions in the world. Its large population has a significant impact on various aspects of life on the island.



• Flood and famines: Java is prone to natural disasters such as floods and famines. The island's geographical location and climate make it susceptible to these events, which have shaped its history and development.

Therefore, option A, "Rice production," is the correct answer.

Colonial Power in Indonesia:

• Dutch: The Dutch were the colonial power in Indonesia.

The Dutch East India Company (VOC) established its presence in Indonesia in the early 17th century. The Dutch gradually gained control over various parts of the archipelago, including Java, Sumatra, and the Moluccas. They established a colonial administration known as the Dutch East Indies, which lasted for over three centuries.

Under Dutch rule, Indonesia became an important source of spices, coffee, rubber, and other valuable commodities. The Dutch exploited the resources of the region and implemented a system of forced labor known as "cultivation system" or "cultuurstelsel". This system led to the exploitation and impoverishment of the local population.

The Indonesian nationalist movement grew in the early 20th century, and the struggle for independence intensified after World War II. On August 17, 1945, Indonesia declared its independence from Dutch rule, leading to a violent conflict between Indonesian nationalists and Dutch colonial forces. The Netherlands officially recognized Indonesian independence in 1949.

Today, the influence of Dutch colonial rule can still be seen in Indonesia's architecture, legal system, education system, and language. However, the country has since developed its own unique culture and identity.

The correct answer is option C, forest did not yield revenue to enhance income of the state.
During colonial rule, the primary focus of colonial rulers was to extract resources and wealth from the colonies they ruled. Forests were seen as unproductive because they did not yield immediate revenue or profits, as opposed to agriculture or other forms of resource extraction. Forests were also seen as hindrances to colonial expansion and development, as they took up valuable land and resources that could be used for other purposes. This perspective led colonial rulers to clear forests for agriculture or resource extraction, with little regard for the long-term ecological or environmental consequences.

To determine which of the following options is a commercial crop, we need to understand what a commercial crop is. Commercial crops are crops that are grown and cultivated primarily for sale and profit. They are grown on a large scale and are typically used for various industries such as food, textiles, and biofuels.
Among the provided options, the commercial crop is cotton. Here's why:
Rice:
- Rice is a staple food crop and is primarily grown for consumption rather than for commercial purposes.
- While rice may be sold in the market, it is not typically considered a major commercial crop.
Wheat:
- Wheat is also a staple food crop and is primarily grown for human consumption.
- Similar to rice, wheat is not typically considered a major commercial crop.
Cotton:
- Cotton is a major commercial crop as it is grown for its fibers, which are used in the textile industry.
- Cotton is cultivated on a large scale and is primarily grown for sale and profit.
- The fibers of the cotton plant are used to produce various textile products such as clothing, bedding, and towels.
Corn:
- While corn can be grown for commercial purposes, it is not typically considered a major commercial crop compared to cotton.
- Corn is primarily used for human consumption, animal feed, and biofuel production.
In conclusion, among the given options, cotton is the commercial crop.

The most essential mode of transportation for colonial trade and movement of goods was railways.

Reasons:

• Railways provided a faster and more efficient way to transport goods compared to other modes of transportation.


• They allowed for the transportation of larger quantities of goods over longer distances.


• Railways connected various parts of the colony, facilitating trade and movement of goods between different regions.


• They reduced transportation costs, making trade more affordable and accessible.


• Railways enabled the colonization of remote areas by providing a means to transport goods and resources.


• They played a crucial role in the development of industries and the economy in colonial times.


• The establishment and expansion of railways required the construction of infrastructure, such as tracks, stations, and bridges, which further contributed to the development of the colony.

Wooden planks laid across railway tracks to hold these tracks in a position are called:
The correct answer is Sleepers.
Explanation:
- Sleepers are horizontal beams that are laid perpendicular to the tracks to support and hold the rails in place.
- They are typically made of wood, concrete, or steel, but in this case, the question specifically mentions wooden planks.
- Sleepers provide stability to the railway tracks and help distribute the weight of the trains evenly.
- They also act as a buffer between the tracks and the underlying ground, absorbing vibrations and reducing noise.
- Sleepers are an essential component of railway infrastructure and are strategically placed at regular intervals along the tracks.
Therefore, the correct term for wooden planks laid across railway tracks to hold these tracks in position is Sleepers.

Government ban the shifting cultivation because they regared this practice as harmful for the forests. They felt that the land which was used for cultivation every few years could not grow trees for railway timber. When a forest was burnt, there was the added danger of the flames sprading and burning valuable timber. Shifting cultivation also made it harder for the government to calculate taxes. Therefore, the government decided to ban shifting cultivation. As a resutl, many communities were forcibly displaced from their homes in the forests. Some had to change occupations,while some resisted through large and small rebellions.

The community of skilled forest cutters is:

• Option B: Mundas of Chotanagpur

The Mundas of Chotanagpur are a community known for their expertise in forest cutting. They have traditional knowledge and skills in sustainable forestry practices and have been practicing this occupation for generations. They have a deep understanding of the forest ecosystem and utilize their skills to extract resources from the forest while ensuring its conservation and sustainability. The Mundas have a unique relationship with the forest and their skills are highly valued in the region.

Note: The other options mentioned (Maasais of Africa, Gonds of Orissa, and Kalangs of Java) are not specifically known for their skills in forest cutting.

Term not associated with shifting agriculture in India:

• Penda


• Bewar


• Khandad


• Lading (Correct Answer)

Shifting agriculture, also known as slash-and-burn agriculture, is a traditional agricultural practice in which land is cleared by cutting down and burning vegetation before crops are planted. This method is commonly used in certain regions of India where the soil fertility is low and farmers rely on shifting cultivation to obtain better yields.

The correct answer is Lading as it is not a term associated with shifting agriculture in India. Lading is a term used in the transportation industry, specifically referring to the loading of goods onto a ship or other means of transportation.

Answer:
The Forest Department preferred forests consisting of trees suitable for building ships and railways. Here is the detailed explanation:
1. Background: The Forest Department is responsible for managing and conserving forest resources.
2. Preference: The Forest Department prefers forests that provide trees suitable for specific purposes.
3. Types of trees: The Forest Department prioritizes forests consisting of trees suitable for building ships and railways.
4. Benefits of suitable trees: Trees suitable for building ships and railways have specific characteristics such as strength, durability, and resistance to decay.
5. Shipbuilding: Trees with these characteristics are used in shipbuilding to construct strong and long-lasting vessels.
6. Railway construction: Similarly, trees suitable for railway construction are used to build sturdy and reliable railway tracks and infrastructure.
7. Importance: The preference for forests with trees suitable for building ships and railways is based on the need for sustainable and durable materials in these industries.
8. Alternative options: Forests with trees providing fuel, fodder, and leaves or forests with softwood may have their own importance but are not the preferred choice for the Forest Department in this context.
9. Conclusion: In conclusion, forests consisting of trees suitable for building ships and railways are preferred by the Forest Department due to their importance in the construction of durable and reliable infrastructure.

The Gondi (Gondi) or Gond people are Adivasi who speak Dravidian language, spread over the states of Madhya Pradesh, eastern Maharashtra (Vidarbha), Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Orissa. The Gond are also known as the Raj Gond.

Shifting Agriculture in South-East Asia
Shifting agriculture, also known as slash-and-burn or swidden agriculture, is a traditional farming method practiced in various parts of the world, including South-East Asia. In this method, farmers clear a patch of land, burn the vegetation, and then cultivate crops for a few years before moving to a new plot of land. Here is a detailed explanation of the different terms associated with shifting agriculture in South-East Asia:
1. Chitemene: Chitemene is a term used in Zambia to describe shifting agriculture. It involves the cutting and burning of trees and shrubs to clear land for cultivation. The ash from the burned vegetation provides nutrients to the soil, allowing farmers to grow crops for a limited period.
2. Tavy: Tavy is a term used in Madagascar to refer to shifting agriculture. It is a common practice among the Malagasy people, where they clear land by burning vegetation and then cultivate crops such as rice, maize, or cassava. After a few years, the plot is left fallow to regenerate before being used again.
3. Lading: Lading is a term used in Myanmar (Burma) to describe shifting agriculture. It involves clearing land by cutting and burning vegetation, followed by cultivation of crops such as rice, corn, or vegetables. The land is used for a few years before being left fallow to recover its fertility.
4. Milp: Milp is a term used in Mexico to refer to shifting agriculture. It involves the clearing of land by cutting and burning vegetation, followed by the cultivation of crops such as maize, beans, or squash. After a few years of cultivation, the land is left fallow to regenerate.
In the context of South-East Asia, the correct answer to the given question is Lading.
Note: Shifting agriculture is a traditional practice that has both advantages and disadvantages. It allows farmers to utilize fertile land, but it can also lead to deforestation and soil degradation if not practiced sustainably.

Introduction:
The Bastar rebellion was an armed uprising that took place in India during the early 20th century. It was a significant event in the history of the Bastar region, located in present-day Chhattisgarh state. The rebellion was led by tribal leaders against the oppressive policies of the British colonial administration.
Date of the Bastar Rebellion:
The Bastar rebellion took place in the year 1910.
Explanation:
The rebellion was a result of the exploitative practices and policies of the British towards the tribal communities in the Bastar region. The tribals were subjected to forced labor, excessive taxation, and the appropriation of their lands by the British authorities. These injustices led to widespread discontent among the tribal population, eventually culminating in armed resistance.
During the rebellion, the tribal leaders mobilized their communities and formed a united front against the British. They employed guerilla warfare tactics and launched attacks on the British forces and administrative establishments. The rebellion lasted for several months and posed a significant challenge to the British administration.
However, the British eventually managed to suppress the rebellion through military force and repressive measures. Many tribal leaders were arrested or killed, and the rebellion was quelled by the end of 1910.
Conclusion:
The Bastar rebellion took place in the year 1910 and was a significant event in the history of the Bastar region. It highlighted the resistance of the tribal communities against British colonial rule and their struggle for freedom and justice.

1. In scientific forestry, different types of natural forests were cut down. In their place one type of tree wasplanted in straight rows. This is called a plantation.

 

2. Forest officials surveyed the forests, estimated the area under different types of trees and made working plans for forest management. They planned how much of the plantation area to be cut every year.

 

3.Theforest area was cut down then to be replanted.

 

To determine which of the options was not a tribal community, we need to analyze each option:
A: Karacha
B: Jhum
C: Korava
D: Yerukula
Among these options, the correct answer is B: Jhum.
Here is a breakdown of each option:
A: Karacha
- Karacha is a tribal community in India.
B: Jhum
- Jhum is not a tribal community. It refers to a traditional slash-and-burn agricultural practice used by certain tribal communities.
C: Korava
- Korava is a tribal community in India.
D: Yerukula
- Yerukula is a tribal community in India.
Therefore, the option that was not a tribal community is B: Jhum.

Indian Forest Service was set up in the year:
The Indian Forest Service (IFS) was established in the year 1864.
Explanation:
The Indian Forest Service is one of the three All India Services, along with the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS). It was established to manage the country's forests and wildlife resources.
Here are the key points to support the answer:
- The Indian Forest Service was established by the British colonial government in India.
- The year 1864 marks the formation of the Indian Forest Service.
- The primary objective of the IFS is the conservation and management of forests and wildlife.
- The IFS plays a crucial role in implementing forestry policies, promoting sustainable forest management, and protecting biodiversity.
- The service is responsible for the protection of forest lands, wildlife habitats, and the prevention and control of forest fires.
- The officers of the Indian Forest Service are recruited through a competitive examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
- They undergo rigorous training at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA) in Dehradun before joining their respective state cadres.
So, the correct answer is option B: 1864.

Swidden agriculture or shifting cultivation is a traditional agricultural practice where cultivators used to cut certain parts of the forest in rotation. Than they burn the trees and sow seeds in ashes after the monsoon rains.

It is practised in many parts of Asia, Africa and South America. It has many local names like ladding in South-East Asia, Milpa in Central America, Chitemene or tavy in Africa, Chena in Sri Lanka. In India dhya, penda, bewar, nevad, jhum, podu, khandad and kumri are some of the local terms for swidden agriculture.

Answer:
The book 'The Forests of India' was written by E.P. Stebbing in the year 1923.
Detailed
E.P. Stebbing authored the book 'The Forests of India' in 1923.
- Author: E.P. Stebbing
- Title of the Book: The Forests of India
- Year of Publication: 1923
It is important to note that David Spurr, Verrier Elvin, and John Middleton are not the authors of this book. The correct answer is option B: E.P. Stebbing.

The goal of governments across Asia and Africa since the 1980s:
There are various goals that governments across Asia and Africa have been working towards since the 1980s. However, the given options only provide limited choices. Based on the options provided, the most suitable answer would be the conservation of forests.
Here are the reasons why conservation of forests has been a goal for governments in Asia and Africa since the 1980s:
1. Environmental preservation: Forests are vital for maintaining ecological balance, providing habitat for various species, and contributing to climate regulation. Governments recognize the importance of preserving forests to protect the environment.
2. Biodiversity conservation: Forests are home to a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are unique and endangered. Governments aim to conserve forests to safeguard biodiversity and prevent the loss of valuable species.
3. Sustainable development: Forests provide valuable resources such as timber, non-timber forest products, and ecosystem services. Governments strive to manage forests sustainably, ensuring their longevity and the availability of resources for future generations.
4. Carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation: Forests play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change. Governments recognize the importance of forest conservation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating global warming.
5. Indigenous rights and land stewardship: Many forests in Asia and Africa are inhabited by indigenous communities who have a deep connection to the land. Governments aim to respect and protect their rights, acknowledging their traditional knowledge and role as stewards of the forest.
It is important to note that while conservation of forests is a goal, other objectives such as sustainable timber collection, community resettlement, and afforestation efforts may also be pursued by governments. However, the given options do not accurately capture the broader range of goals and actions undertaken by governments in Asia and Africa since the 1980s.

Policies followed by the British in India towards forests during the First and Second World Wars:
During the First and Second World Wars, the British implemented certain policies regarding forests in India. The policy followed by the British can be described as follows:
1. Cutting of trees to meet British war needs:
- The British implemented a policy where trees were cut freely to fulfill their war requirements.
- This was done to meet the demand for timber and other forest resources needed for various war-related purposes, such as construction, fuel, and ammunition production.
2. Prohibition on cutting trees for everyone:
- Cutting of trees was strictly prohibited for everyone, including the British.
- This policy aimed to conserve the forest resources and prevent excessive deforestation during the war period.
3. Plantation of more trees:
- To counterbalance the cutting of trees, the British also initiated afforestation programs.
- These programs aimed to plant more trees and increase forest cover in India.
- The plantation of trees also provided employment opportunities for the local Indian population.
4. None of the above:
- This option is incorrect as the British did implement specific policies during the wars regarding forests in India.
In conclusion, the policy followed by the British in India towards forests during the First and Second World Wars involved cutting trees freely to meet war needs, while also implementing afforestation programs and prohibiting tree cutting for everyone.

Surontiko Samin of Randublatung village began questioning:
- State ownership of the forest: Surontiko Samin started questioning the concept of state ownership of the teak forest in Randublatung village.
- Background: Randublatung village is a teak forest village located in Indonesia, where the Dutch colonial government had established a policy of state ownership over the forest.
- Surontiko Samin's questioning: Surontiko Samin, a resident of the village, began questioning the legitimacy and fairness of the state's ownership of the forest.
- Reasons: It is believed that Surontiko Samin's questioning stemmed from his dissatisfaction with the existing system and his desire for more control and autonomy over the forest resources.
- Impact: Surontiko Samin's questioning sparked a movement known as the "Samin Movement," which aimed to challenge the state's ownership of the forest and assert the rights of the local communities to manage and benefit from the forest resources.
- Significance: The Samin Movement became a significant social and political movement in Indonesia, advocating for land rights and community empowerment, and influencing the discourse on land ownership and resource management in the country.
- Legacy: Surontiko Samin's questioning and the subsequent Samin Movement have left a lasting impact on the understanding of land rights, community empowerment, and environmental conservation in Indonesia.

System of 'blandongdiensten'
The system of 'blandongdiensten' was a historical practice in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) during the 19th century. It was a form of forced labor imposed on the indigenous population by the Dutch colonial authorities. The term 'blandongdiensten' literally translates to "forced services" in Dutch.
Explanation:
The system of 'blandongdiensten' involved the imposition of labor or services on the local population, particularly in rural areas. Here are the key features of this system:
1. First imposition of rent on land: The Dutch colonial authorities introduced a policy where the indigenous people were required to pay rent for the land they occupied or cultivated. This was a significant departure from the traditional communal land ownership system.
2. Exemption from rent through forced labor: In order to exempt themselves from paying rent, the local population was forced to provide labor or services to the colonial authorities. This labor was often in the form of agricultural work, such as cultivating cash crops or building infrastructure.
3. Coercion and exploitation: The 'blandongdiensten' system was marked by coercion and exploitation. The local population had little choice but to comply with the demands of the colonial authorities, as their livelihoods depended on access to land. They often faced harsh working conditions and low wages or no wages at all.
4. Economic impact: The imposition of forced labor through the 'blandongdiensten' system had a significant impact on the local economy. It disrupted traditional agricultural practices, created dependency on cash crops, and contributed to the consolidation of power and wealth in the hands of the colonial authorities.
5. Resistance and abolition: The 'blandongdiensten' system faced resistance from the local population, who saw it as a form of exploitation and oppression. Over time, protests and revolts against this system grew, eventually leading to its abolition in the early 20th century.
In conclusion, the system of 'blandongdiensten' was a forced labor system imposed by the Dutch colonial authorities in the Dutch East Indies. It involved the imposition of rent on land and the exemption from rent through forced labor. This system had a significant impact on the local economy and was eventually abolished due to resistance from the indigenous population.

Explanation:
To find the answer, we need to analyze the given options and determine which one is correct.

Option A: Asia's landmass

- The statement does not provide any information about Asia's landmass, so we cannot determine the fraction of it under cultivation in 1600.
- We can eliminate this option.

Option B: India's landmass

- The statement does not explicitly mention India's landmass, so we cannot directly determine the fraction of it under cultivation in 1600.
- However, since this option is the only one that mentions a specific country, it is worth considering further.

Option C: World

- The statement does not provide any information about the fraction of the world's landmass under cultivation in 1600.
- We can eliminate this option.

Option D: Britain

- The statement does not mention anything about Britain, so we cannot determine the fraction of its landmass under cultivation in 1600.
- We can eliminate this option.
Based on the analysis above, the correct answer is Option B: India's landmass.

The Answer is D: 1820s
The correct time period when search parties were sent to explore the forest resources of India is the 1820s. Here is a detailed explanation:
- Background: During the colonial period, the British East India Company was actively involved in the exploitation of India's natural resources, including its forests.
- Forest Exploration: The British recognized the vast forest resources present in various parts of India and saw the potential for economic gain through timber extraction and other forest products.
- Initiation: In the 1820s, the British authorities in India organized search parties to explore and assess the forest resources available in different regions of the country.
- Objective: The main objective of these search parties was to identify valuable timber species, evaluate the extent of forest cover, and assess the potential for commercial exploitation.
- Findings: The search parties documented their findings on the types of trees, their distribution, and the overall health of the forests they explored.
- Impact: The information gathered by these search parties played a crucial role in the development of forestry policies and practices in India during the colonial era.
- Long-term Consequences: The extensive exploitation of India's forests during this period had a significant impact on the environment, leading to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and ecological imbalance.
Therefore, based on historical records, it can be concluded that search parties were sent to explore the forest resources of India in the 1820s.

The German expert who was invited to India by the British for advice and was made the first Inspector General of Forests in India was Dietrich Brandis. Here is a detailed explanation:
Background:
During the British colonial period in India, there was a significant depletion of forest resources due to deforestation and unsustainable exploitation. Recognizing the importance of conserving forests, the British government sought the expertise of renowned German forester Dietrich Brandis.
Dietrich Brandis:
- Dietrich Brandis was a renowned German botanist and forester who had extensive knowledge and experience in managing forests.
- He had previously worked as a forest official in Germany and had also served as the Inspector General of Forests in Burma (now Myanmar).
Invitation to India:
- In 1864, the British government invited Dietrich Brandis to India to provide advice and guidance on forest conservation and management.
- Brandis accepted the invitation and arrived in India in 1865.
Role as Inspector General of Forests:
- Upon his arrival in India, Dietrich Brandis was appointed as the first Inspector General of Forests in India.
- He played a crucial role in establishing the Indian Forest Service and implementing sustainable forest management practices.
- Brandis introduced scientific methods of forestry, including the identification and classification of tree species, assessing forest resources, and promoting sustainable harvesting techniques.
- He also emphasized the need for reforestation and afforestation to restore degraded forests.
Legacy:
- Dietrich Brandis' contributions to forest conservation and management in India were instrumental in laying the foundation for the country's modern forestry practices.
- His work helped raise awareness about the importance of forests and their sustainable use.
- The principles and practices introduced by Brandis continue to influence forest management policies in India to this day.
Therefore, Dietrich Brandis, the German expert, was invited by the British for advice and became the first Inspector General of Forests in India.

Shifting cultivation:
- Shifting cultivation is a type of cultivation where parts of the forest are cut and burnt in rotation.
- Seeds are sown in the ashes after the first monsoon rains.
- The crop is harvested by October-November.
Commercial cultivation:
- Commercial cultivation refers to the cultivation of crops for commercial purposes, such as selling the produce in the market.
- It involves large-scale farming and the use of modern agricultural techniques and machinery.
Intensive cultivation:
- Intensive cultivation is a type of cultivation where the land is extensively used to maximize the yield of crops.
- It involves the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation to increase productivity.
- Intensive cultivation is often practiced in areas with high population density and limited arable land.
None of the above:
- None of the above options accurately describe the described cultivation method of cutting and burning parts of the forest in rotation and sowing seeds in the ashes after the first monsoon rains.
Therefore, the correct answer is Shifting cultivation.

Background:
The American-owned limited fruit company refers to the United Fruit Company, which was a major banana producer and distributor. It had significant influence over the governments of Central American countries, especially during the early to mid-20th century.
Answer:
The American-owned limited fruit company acquired much power over the government of Central America to draw bananas.
Explanation:
The United Fruit Company gained substantial control over the governments of Central American countries through various means, including economic manipulation, political interference, and military intervention. This allowed them to dominate the banana industry in the region and shape government policies to suit their interests.
Here are some key points to support the answer:
1. Economic Manipulation:
- The United Fruit Company owned vast banana plantations in countries like Honduras, Guatemala, and Costa Rica.
- They employed thousands of workers and controlled the export of bananas, which was a major source of revenue for these countries.
- Through their economic dominance, they could influence government decisions and policies.
2. Political Interference:
- The United Fruit Company had close ties with the political elites in Central American countries.
- They often used their financial resources to support politicians who were favorable to their interests.
- In return, these politicians would enact laws and policies that benefited the company, such as tax breaks, favorable labor laws, and land concessions.
3. Military Intervention:
- If the United Fruit Company faced opposition or threats to its operations, it would sometimes seek military intervention from the United States.
- The U.S. government, often in the name of protecting American interests, would send troops or provide support to suppress any movements or governments that posed a threat to the company.
In conclusion, the American-owned limited fruit company, the United Fruit Company, acquired significant power over the government of Central America to draw bananas. Their economic dominance, political interference, and sometimes military intervention allowed them to shape policies and control the banana industry in the region.