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All questions of Contemporary World Politics for UPSC CSE Exam

What became the main arena of conflict between the superpowers?
  • a)
    Asia
  • b)
    South Africa
  • c)
    Europe
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Because of the conflict between two superpowers the whole Europe divided into two alliance, and prozy wars used happened in Europe to retaliate the actual hot war.I hope you got the correct explaination.

What country was an ally of the soviet union?
  • a)
    Italy
  • b)
    France
  • c)
    Germany
  • d)
    Cuba
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Srestha Raj answered
Yes Cuba is the country which was an ally of Soviet union it was totally dependent on USSR for its Financial and military aid

When did the socialist revolution take place in Russia?
  • a)
    1914
  • b)
    1917
  • c)
    1913
  • d)
    1920
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Soumya Bose answered
The Socialist Revolution in Russia took place in 1917.

Background
- In 1914, Russia had entered World War I on the side of the Allies.
- The war brought about economic hardship, food shortages, and military casualties.
- These issues led to discontent among the Russian people and created an environment ripe for revolution.

February Revolution
- In February 1917, a series of protests and strikes broke out in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg), the capital of Russia.
- The protests were mainly led by workers and soldiers who were demanding better working conditions, higher wages, and an end to the war.
- The protests quickly spread throughout the city and eventually led to the overthrow of Tsar Nicholas II, who had been ruling Russia since 1894.

Provisional Government
- Following the Tsar's abdication, a Provisional Government was established to rule Russia until a new government could be formed.
- However, the Provisional Government was weak and ineffective, and it failed to address the main concerns of the Russian people.

October Revolution
- In October 1917, the Bolshevik Party, led by Vladimir Lenin, seized power from the Provisional Government in a coup d'état known as the October Revolution.
- The Bolsheviks established a new government based on Marxist principles, which became known as the Soviet Union.
- The October Revolution marked the beginning of the socialist revolution in Russia and led to significant changes in the country's political, social, and economic structures.

Conclusion
The Socialist Revolution in Russia took place in 1917, following a period of discontent and unrest among the Russian people. The February Revolution led to the overthrow of Tsar Nicholas II and the establishment of a weak Provisional Government. The October Revolution, led by the Bolshevik Party, marked the beginning of a new era in Russian history and the establishment of the Soviet Union.

When was the first non-aligned summit held?
  • a)
    1957
  • b)
    1961
  • c)
    1964
  • d)
    1958
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Mainak Goyal answered
The First Non-Aligned Summit Held in 1961

The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was founded in 1961, and the first summit was held in Belgrade, Yugoslavia (now Serbia) in the same year. The NAM was established as an alternative to the existing power blocs of the Cold War era, namely the United States-led Western bloc and the Soviet Union-led Eastern bloc.

Background

The idea of non-alignment had been proposed by leaders of newly independent nations who wanted to avoid taking sides in the Cold War. The Bandung Conference, held in Indonesia in 1955, was a precursor to the NAM and brought together leaders of 29 Asian and African countries who were committed to promoting economic and political cooperation among their nations.

Establishment of NAM

The NAM was officially established at the Belgrade Summit in 1961, attended by leaders of 25 countries. The founding members included India's Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Egypt's President Gamal Abdel Nasser, Yugoslavia's President Josip Broz Tito, and Indonesia's President Sukarno.

Objectives

The NAM's primary objective was to promote peace, security, and cooperation among its member states, while maintaining their independence and sovereignty. The movement aimed to provide a platform for developing countries to voice their concerns and interests in the international arena.

Achievements

Over the years, the NAM has played an important role in promoting disarmament, decolonization, and the rights of developing countries. It has also supported the struggles of oppressed peoples, such as the people of Palestine and South Africa.

Conclusion

The first NAM summit held in 1961 marked the beginning of a new era in international relations, one that sought to promote cooperation among nations based on the principles of non-alignment. The movement has since grown to include 120 member states and remains an important voice for the developing world.

The duration of Cold War was__________.
  • a)
    1914 - 1919
  • b)
    1939 - 1945
  • c)
    1945 - 1991
  • d)
    1965 – 1991
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Cold War was an outcome of the emergence of US and USSR as two superpowers, rivals of each other for hegemony over world. The disintegration of USSR in 1991 ended the Cold War.

In which year ASEAN was established?
  • a)
    1967
  • b)
    1965
  • c)
    1962
  • d)
    1960
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Akshita Saha answered
ASEAN was established in 1967 by five countries of south east Asian region — Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand — by signing the Bangkok Declaration. One of objective of ASEAN was to accelerate economic growth and through that ‘social progress and cultural development’.

Who was the president of the small island nation Cuba off the coast of the united states?
  • a)
    John F. Kennedy
  • b)
    Fidel Castro
  • c)
    Khrushchev
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Simran Rane answered
Fidel Castro was the president of the small island nation Cuba off the coast of the United States.

Background:

Cuba is an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, just south of the United States. The country has a rich history, with a vibrant culture and a diverse population. However, Cuba is perhaps best known for its political history, which has been shaped by a number of different leaders over the years. One of the most famous of these leaders was Fidel Castro.

Fidel Castro:

Fidel Castro was born in 1926, and he became involved in politics at a young age. He was a communist, and he believed that the people of Cuba deserved a better life than they were currently living. In 1959, Castro led a revolution that overthrew the Cuban government, and he became the country's prime minister. A few years later, he declared himself president of Cuba.

Castro's presidency was marked by a number of significant events. One of the most famous of these was the Cuban Missile Crisis, which occurred in 1962. During this crisis, the United States and the Soviet Union were on the brink of war over the presence of Soviet missiles in Cuba. Ultimately, the crisis was resolved peacefully, but it was a tense moment in world history.

Castro remained in power in Cuba for many years, and he was known for his communist policies and his outspoken criticism of the United States. He eventually stepped down from power in 2008, and his brother Raul Castro took over as president.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Fidel Castro was the president of the small island nation Cuba off the coast of the United States. He was a controversial figure who led a revolution and ruled the country for many years. Despite his many critics, he remains an important figure in the history of Cuba and the world.

The US Hegemony began in
  • a)
    1990.
  • b)
    1991.
  • c)
    1992.
  • d)
    1993.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The US Hegemony began in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War. This event marked the beginning of a new era in world politics, where the United States emerged as the sole superpower and dominant player in international affairs.

Factors that led to US Hegemony

There were several factors that contributed to the rise of US Hegemony, including:

1. Economic Power: The United States had the largest and most powerful economy in the world, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) that was more than twice that of its closest competitor, Japan.

2. Military Strength: The US had the most powerful military in the world, with advanced technology and a global network of military bases.

3. Soft Power: The US had significant cultural influence through its music, movies, and other forms of popular culture.

4. Political Stability: The US had a stable political system and strong institutions that provided a basis for its global leadership role.

Impact of US Hegemony

The impact of US Hegemony was significant, both domestically and internationally.

1. Domestically, it led to a period of economic growth and prosperity, as American businesses expanded into new markets and created jobs at home.

2. Internationally, US Hegemony led to a more stable and peaceful world order, as the US used its power to promote democracy, human rights, and free trade.

3. However, US Hegemony also led to resentment and opposition from some countries, who felt that the US was imposing its will on the rest of the world.

4. The US Hegemony also came under threat in the early 21st century, as the rise of China and other emerging powers challenged American dominance in the international system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the US Hegemony began in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War. It was characterized by American economic, military, and cultural power, and had a significant impact on both domestic and international politics. While it led to a period of prosperity and stability, it also faced challenges and opposition from other countries.

When was the council of Europe established?
  • a)
    1946
  • b)
    1949
  • c)
    1952
  • d)
    1945
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Nisha Sengupta answered
The Establishment of the Council of Europe

The Council of Europe was established on May 5, 1949.

Reasons for Establishment

After World War II, European countries were devastated and needed to rebuild their economies and societies. The Council of Europe was established to promote unity, cooperation, and democracy among European countries.

Founding Members

The Council of Europe was founded by ten countries: Belgium, Denmark, France, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

Objectives

The objectives of the Council of Europe include the promotion of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. The council also works to promote social cohesion, cultural diversity, and the protection of cultural heritage.

Functions

The council has a wide range of functions, including:

- Developing international conventions and agreements on human rights, cultural heritage, and other areas
- Monitoring member states’ compliance with these conventions and agreements
- Providing assistance and guidance to member states on issues related to human rights and democracy
- Promoting intercultural dialogue and cooperation among member states
- Supporting education and youth programs

Conclusion

The Council of Europe has played a crucial role in promoting democracy, human rights, and social cohesion in Europe since its establishment in 1949. With its focus on cooperation and dialogue among European countries, the council continues to be an important institution in the region today.

What type of weapons did the US and the USSR make in the 1950s?
  • a)
    Fission
  • b)
    Thermonuclear
  • c)
    Detonation
  • d)
    Warhead
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

In the 1950s, both the US and the USSR made (b) thermonuclear weapons.
Thermonuclear weapons, also known as hydrogen bombs, are a type of nuclear weapon that uses a fusion reaction to release a much larger explosion than is possible with a fission bomb (also known as an atomic bomb). Fusion weapons were developed in the 1950s as a response to the development of fission weapons by both the US and the USSR during World War II.
Thermonuclear weapons are considered to be more powerful and destructive than fission weapons, as they release a much larger amount of energy and can have a much wider blast radius. Both the US and the USSR made significant investments in developing and testing thermonuclear weapons during the 1950s as part of the Cold War arms race.
In summary, the correct answer is (b) Thermonuclear.

What was the eastern alliance known as?
  • a)
    The Warsaw Pact
  • b)
    NATO
  • c)
    The United States
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

The Eastern Alliance was known as the Warsaw Pact.

Explanation:
The Warsaw Pact was a military alliance formed in 1955 between the Soviet Union and seven Eastern European countries: Albania, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Hungary, Poland, and Romania. The purpose of the alliance was to counter the perceived threat from NATO, the Western military alliance.

The name "Warsaw Pact" was derived from the location of the signing of the treaty, which took place in Warsaw, Poland. The treaty was signed for a period of 20 years and was renewed twice before it was dissolved in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War.

The Warsaw Pact was not just a military alliance, but also an economic and political one. It was designed to promote cooperation and unity among the member states, with the Soviet Union as the dominant power. The member states were required to consult with each other on matters of defense and foreign policy, and to provide mutual assistance in the event of an attack by an outside power.

Overall, the Warsaw Pact was a significant development in the Cold War, representing the division between the communist East and the capitalist West. Its dissolution marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new era in international relations.

The root of the word 'hegemony' lies in the
  • a)
    Latin.
  • b)
    Classical Greeks.
  • c)
    French.
  • d)
    Spanish.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Hegemony is the term originated from Greek society, according to which one group dominates the rest of groups in a society and runs the society according to its own will.

How many stars does the circle of gold stars have?
  • a)
    Fourteen
  • b)
    Eleven
  • c)
    Fifteen
  • d)
    Twelve
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Debolina Ahuja answered
Answer:

The correct answer is option 'D', Twelve.

Explanation:

The given image shows a circle consisting of gold stars. To determine the number of stars that the circle has, we need to count the stars in the image.

Counting the stars in the image, we can see that there are a total of twelve stars in the circle. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D', Twelve.

In summary, the circle of gold stars has twelve stars.

The two aspects of Human Rights are
  • a)
    social and legal aspects.
  • b)
    natural and legal aspects.
  • c)
    economic and political aspects.
  • d)
    economic and natural aspects.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Ruchi Joshi answered
Natural aspects signifies that 'Human Rights' are universal and inalienable. Legal aspects implies that 'Human Rights' are legal and constitutional rights that are enforced by the state.

Nepal was a constitutional monarchy till
  • a)
    2006.
  • b)
    2005.
  • c)
    2004.
  • d)
    2003.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Till 2006, Nepal was a constitutional monarchy with the danger of the king taking over executive powers. In 2006 a successful popular uprising led to the restoration of democracy and reduced the king to a nominal position. Nepal is now a republic with a multi-party system. However, the country is still in the process of framing its constitution.

The USSR came into being after the Socialist Revolution in Russia in the year
  • a)
    1915.
  • b)
    1916.
  • c)
    1917.
  • d)
    1918.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Milan Das answered
The revolution was inspired by the ideals of socialism, as opposed to capitalism and the need for an egalitarian society.

Who was the general secretary of the communist party of the soviet union in 1985?
  • a)
    Boris Yeltsin
  • b)
    Calliper
  • c)
    Mikhail Gorbachev
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Gunjan Lakhani answered

General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in 1985:

  • Mikhail Gorbachev: Mikhail Gorbachev was the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in 1985.


United States was founded in which year?
  • a)
    1774
  • b)
    1776
  • c)
    1778
  • d)
    1780
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Anuj Patel answered
USA was a colony of Britain. In 1776, American colonies of Britain revolted against the foreign rule with the army under the command of George Washington. Americans defeated the British to win their freedom.

Who promised to reform the economy, catch up with the west, and loosen the administrative system?
  • a)
    Yeltsin
  • b)
    Khosrove
  • c)
    Collier
  • d)
    Gorbachev
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Who promised to reform the economy, catch up with the west, and loosen the administrative system?

Answer: d. Gorbachev

  • Background: Mikhail Gorbachev was a Soviet politician who served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1985 until 1991.


  • Economic Reform: Gorbachev promised to reform the Soviet economy through policies such as perestroika, which aimed to restructure and modernize the economy.


  • Catching up with the West: Gorbachev recognized the need for the Soviet Union to catch up with Western countries in terms of technology, productivity, and living standards.


  • Loosening Administrative System: Gorbachev also implemented policies like glasnost, which aimed to increase transparency and openness in the political system, loosening the strict control of the Communist Party.


Overall, Gorbachev's promises to reform the economy, catch up with the West, and loosen the administrative system were part of his efforts to modernize the Soviet Union and address its economic and political challenges.

India conducted second nuclear test in:
  • a)
    1972
  • b)
    1985
  • c)
    1986
  • d)
    1998
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Prerna Nair answered
India did so as it was surrounded by nuclear-armed countries and it wanted to safeguard itself from them.

When was the LTTE vanquished?
  • a)
    2006
  • b)
    2005
  • c)
    2009
  • d)
    2012
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Vedika Singh answered
Ltte is a Tamil people group in shreelanka it is a very aggressive violent group in shreelanka .there is a big controversy between sinhili and Ltte in shreelanka

Global poverty is another source of:
  • a)
    insecurity.
  • b)
    security.
  • c)
    internal problem.
  • d)
    external threat.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Ojasvi Mehta answered
Global poverty refers to low economic growth, low national income and low standard of living of developing or least developed countries. It is a source of insecurity because: 
1. Half the world’s population growth occurs in just six countries- India, China, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and Indonesia, considered developing countries and even in poorest countries population is expected to triple in next 50 years. 
2. Globally, this disparity contributes to the gap between the northern and southern countries of the world. 
3. Poverty in the south has also led a large migration to seek better economic opportunities in the north. 
4. All these created international political friction as international law and norms make a distinction between migrants and refugees as they do not get ready to accept migrants.

How many member states attended the first non-aligned summit?
  • a)
    23
  • b)
    25
  • c)
    29
  • d)
    27
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The First Non-Aligned Summit was held in Belgrade, Yugoslavia from September 1-6, 1961. The summit was attended by representatives from 25 member states.

Reasoning:

- The Non-Aligned Movement was formed in 1961 by a group of countries who did not want to align themselves with either the United States or the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
- The First Non-Aligned Summit was held in Belgrade, Yugoslavia from September 1-6, 1961.
- According to historical records, 25 member states were present at the summit.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B, 25.

Who did the US know was about to surrender?
  • a)
    Myanmar
  • b)
    Japan
  • c)
    Germany
  • d)
    India
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Shakshi answered
This is the incident of second world war. Japan was it's rivalry and us knew that the war to about to end and Japan was about to surrender yet he dropped atom bombs on Japan to show its power.

ASEAN's vision 2020 has defined what kind of role for ASEAN in the international community?
  • a)
    Inward-Looking
  • b)
    Innovation-Oriented
  • c)
    Future-Focused
  • d)
    Outward-Looking
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Anjana Bose answered
ASEAN's Vision 2020: Outward-Looking Role in the International Community

ASEAN's Vision 2020 is a strategic plan that outlines the regional bloc's goals and aspirations for the future. It aims to transform ASEAN into a dynamic and resilient community that is able to cope with current and future challenges. One of the key elements of the vision is an outward-looking role for ASEAN in the international community.

What is an Outward-Looking Role?

An outward-looking role means that ASEAN is actively engaged with other countries and international organizations. It seeks to promote cooperation, dialogue, and partnerships with the global community. ASEAN recognizes that it cannot achieve its goals in isolation and that it needs to work with other countries to address common challenges.

Why is an Outward-Looking Role Important?

An outward-looking role is important for several reasons:


  • It enables ASEAN to build relationships with other countries and international organizations, which can lead to economic, political, and social benefits.

  • It helps ASEAN to influence global policies and decision-making processes, particularly on issues that affect the region.

  • It enhances ASEAN's reputation and standing in the international community, which can lead to greater respect and recognition.

  • It enables ASEAN to learn from other countries and international organizations, which can help to improve its own policies and practices.



How is ASEAN Pursuing an Outward-Looking Role?

ASEAN is pursuing an outward-looking role in several ways:


  • It has established partnerships with other countries and international organizations, such as the ASEAN Plus Three, ASEAN Regional Forum, and ASEAN-EU.

  • It is actively involved in regional and global issues, such as climate change, terrorism, and trade.

  • It has engaged in dialogue and cooperation with other countries and international organizations on issues of mutual interest.

  • It has promoted regional integration and connectivity, which can help to build bridges with other countries and regions.



Conclusion

ASEAN's Vision 2020 aims to transform ASEAN into a dynamic and resilient community that is able to cope with current and future challenges. An outward-looking role is an important part of this vision, as it enables ASEAN to build relationships, influence global policies, enhance its reputation, and learn from other countries and international organizations. ASEAN is pursuing an outward-looking role through partnerships, engagement, dialogue, and regional integration.

A land locked country of South Asia with Maoist guirellas
  • a)
    Maldives.
  • b)
    Bangladesh.
  • c)
    Nepal.
  • d)
    Pakistan.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Anagha Pillai answered
Nepal, a landlocked country, faces the problem of Maoist guirellas.During te 1990s, the Maoist of Nepal were successful in spreading their influence. In April 2008 elections the Maoist won an absolute majority.

Which of the following statements about the Soviet political system is incorrect
  • a)
    The Communist Party controlled all institutions
  • b)
    Democracy and political opposition were allowed
  • c)
    The economy was state-controlled and planned
  • d)
    The Soviet Union had a one-party system
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Abhiram Rane answered
Overview of the Soviet Political System
The Soviet political system was characterized by a strict hierarchy and lack of democratic freedoms. Understanding its structure is essential to identifying the incorrect statement about it.
Control by the Communist Party
- The Communist Party was the dominant force in the Soviet Union, controlling all political, social, and economic institutions.
- Other political parties were banned, ensuring that the Communist Party maintained absolute power.
Democracy and Political Opposition
- Incorrect Statement: Democracy and political opposition were not allowed.
- The Soviet Union was a one-party state where dissent was not tolerated. Political opposition was suppressed through various means, including imprisonment, exile, and execution.
State-Controlled Economy
- The economy in the Soviet Union was entirely state-controlled and planned.
- The government directed all economic activity, including production, distribution, and pricing, through central planning agencies.
One-Party System
- The Soviet Union operated under a one-party system, meaning the Communist Party was the sole legal party.
- This structure reinforced the lack of political pluralism and opposition, further entrenching the Party's control over the state.
Conclusion
In summary, the statement that "democracy and political opposition were allowed" is incorrect. The Soviet political system was marked by authoritarianism, with the Communist Party exerting total control and suppressing any form of dissent or democratic governance.

In what year did India conduct a nuclear explosion in Pokhran?
  • a)
    1995
  • b)
    2001
  • c)
    1994
  • d)
    1998
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

India's Nuclear Explosion in Pokhran in 1998

Introduction:
India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974, but it was considered a peaceful nuclear explosion. However, India's second nuclear test in Pokhran in 1998 was a significant moment in India's nuclear history.

The Event:
On May 11, 1998, India conducted five nuclear explosions at the Indian Army's Pokhran Test Range in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. These tests were carried out under the code name "Operation Shakti."

The Decision:
The decision to conduct the tests was made by then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had ordered the preparations for the tests in April 1998. The tests were conducted despite international pressure and warnings from other countries, including the United States.

The Results:
The tests were successful, with the yield being higher than expected. India became the sixth country in the world to possess nuclear weapons, after the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom.

The Response:
The tests were met with international condemnation and led to economic sanctions being imposed on India by several countries, including the United States. However, India defended its decision to conduct the tests, stating that it was necessary for its national security.

Conclusion:
The 1998 nuclear tests in Pokhran marked a significant moment in India's nuclear history. It demonstrated India's capability to develop and possess nuclear weapons and also highlighted the country's determination to protect its national security.

Who emerged as a national hero in opposing the coup?
  • a)
    Mikhail Gorbachev
  • b)
    Kenedy
  • c)
    Ambedkar
  • d)
    Boris Yeltsin
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Shruti Joshi answered
Boris Yeltsin emerged as a national hero in opposing the coup in the Soviet Union.

Background:
• In August 1991, a group of Soviet hardliners attempted a coup to remove Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev from power.
• The coup was led by Communist Party officials who were opposed to Gorbachev's reforms and wanted to restore the Soviet Union to its former state.
• The coup failed due to mass protests and resistance from the public, including Boris Yeltsin, who was the President of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic at the time.

Boris Yeltsin's Role:
• Yeltsin was a vocal critic of the coup from the beginning and was instrumental in organizing and leading the resistance against it.
• He addressed the crowds gathered in Moscow, calling for a general strike and urging the military to join the resistance.
• Yeltsin also climbed onto a tank outside the Russian White House, the seat of the Russian government, to address the crowds and show his defiance against the coup leaders.
• His bravery and leadership during the coup earned him widespread admiration and support from the public, and he emerged as a national hero.

Aftermath:
• The coup ultimately failed, and Gorbachev was restored to power.
• However, the coup's failure was a turning point in the collapse of the Soviet Union, as it revealed the deep divisions within the Communist Party and the military.
• Yeltsin's role in opposing the coup helped to elevate his profile and boost his political career, leading to his election as the first President of the Russian Federation in 1991.
• Yeltsin's opposition to the coup also paved the way for the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union and the emergence of Russia as an independent state.

China's economic success since what year has been linked to its rise as a great power?
  • a)
    1978
  • b)
    1975
  • c)
    1974
  • d)
    1981
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

China's Economic Success and Rise as a Great Power

Since 1978, China has undergone extensive economic reforms that have led to its economic success and rise as a great power. This answer will explain how this has happened and why 1978 is an important year in this story.

The Reform and Opening-Up Policy

In 1978, Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping initiated the Reform and Opening-Up Policy, which aimed to modernize the Chinese economy and increase its integration with the global economy. This policy involved several key reforms:

- Decentralization of economic decision-making: The policy gave more decision-making power to local officials and enterprises, allowing them to respond more quickly to market demands.
- Introduction of market principles: The policy allowed for the growth of private enterprise and foreign investment, and reduced the role of central planning in the economy.
- Special Economic Zones: The policy designated certain areas as Special Economic Zones (SEZs), where foreign investors could operate with fewer restrictions and enjoy tax breaks. These SEZs became hubs of economic activity and helped to attract foreign investment.

The results of these reforms were dramatic. China's GDP grew at an average rate of 9.5% per year between 1978 and 2018, lifting hundreds of millions of people out of poverty and making China the world's second-largest economy.

China's Rise as a Great Power

China's economic success has been closely linked to its rise as a great power. The country's economic growth has allowed it to invest heavily in its military, technology, and infrastructure, making it a formidable competitor on the world stage. Here are some of the ways in which China has become a great power:

- Military: China has the world's largest standing army and has invested heavily in modernizing its military capabilities, including developing advanced weapons systems and expanding its navy.
- Technology: China has become a leader in several cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and renewable energy.
- Infrastructure: China has launched several ambitious infrastructure projects, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to connect China with countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa through a network of roads, railways, ports, and other infrastructure.

Conclusion

Since 1978, China's economic success has been closely linked to its rise as a great power. The Reform and Opening-Up Policy initiated by Deng Xiaoping allowed for the modernization and integration of the Chinese economy, leading to dramatic economic growth. This growth has allowed China to invest heavily in its military, technology, and infrastructure, making it a formidable competitor on the world stage.

What plan did the U.S. extend massive financial help for reviving Europe’s economy?
  • a)
    Stalin Plan
  • b)
    Burman Plan
  • c)
    Marshall Plan
  • d)
    Truman
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Swara Patel answered
The Marshall Plan

The U.S. extended massive financial help for reviving Europe’s economy through the Marshall Plan.

Background:

- After World War II, Europe was devastated, and its economy was in shambles.
- The U.S. recognized the need to help Europe rebuild its economy to prevent the spread of communism.
- Secretary of State George C. Marshall announced the Marshall Plan on June 5, 1947.

Details of the Plan:

- The Marshall Plan was a massive aid program that provided economic assistance to Western Europe.
- The U.S. offered $13 billion (about $130 billion in today’s dollars) in aid to 16 countries over four years.
- The money was to be used for reconstruction and modernization of industry, agriculture, and infrastructure.
- The aid was conditional on the recipient countries cooperating with each other and with the U.S. in implementing the plan.
- The plan was a success, and Europe’s economy recovered faster than expected.

Impact of the Plan:

- The Marshall Plan helped revive Europe’s economy and prevented the spread of communism.
- It also strengthened the U.S.’s position as a world leader and helped establish the U.S. as a superpower.
- The plan was seen as a symbol of U.S. generosity and goodwill towards Europe.

Conclusion:

The Marshall Plan was a significant achievement in U.S. foreign policy history. It helped rebuild Europe’s economy and prevented the spread of communism. The plan also established the U.S. as a world leader and superpower.

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