All SAT II World History Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #1 : Tools Of War
Which of the following best defines meritocracy?
A religious sect of ancient Confucianism
The name given to the Japanese concept of chivalry and honor
The name given to Genghis Kahn’s style of intimidation and warfare
A system where promotions are made based on ability rather than familial status
None of the other answer choices is correct.
A system where promotions are made based on ability rather than familial status
Meritocracy is the name given to a system in which promotions are made and jobs awarded based on the ability of an individual rather than the status of his or her family. Genghis Khan famously introduced this concept to his Mongolian forces, greatly improving the efficiency of his forces and the loyalty of his men.
Example Question #2 : Tools Of War
During the eleventh and twelfth centuries, trebuchets began to emerge in Europe and the Middle East; they were primarily used __________.
to spot enemies from a safe distance
as close-combat weapons
for defensive purposes
as siege weapons
for caring for the sick and wounded
as siege weapons
Trebuchets are siege weapons that became a popular component of medieval war-making in the twelfth century. A trebuchet is similar in design to a catapult, although significantly more complicated and effective. Trebuchets were eventually phased out in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries with the advent of gunpowder and cannons.
Example Question #3 : Tools Of War
The invention of gunpowder occurred in __________.
Germany
China
France
Russia
England
China
The invention of gunpowder happened in China sometime around the ninth or tenth century. The China of this time period was a highly innovative society that gave the world many notable inventions, including block printing and compass navigation at sea. Gunpowder spread across Central Asia and the Middle East before arriving in Europe around the thirteenth century.
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