AP World History : Ethnic Identities 1450 to 1750

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP World History

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Ethnic Identities

What were Janissaries in the Ottoman Empire?

Possible Answers:

Interpreters of Islamic law who codified the legal system

Protected communities of non-Muslim citizens

Christian soldiers in the Ottoman army

Districts ruled by a governor who owed allegiance only to the Sultan

Islamic fundamentalist rebel groups

Correct answer:

Christian soldiers in the Ottoman army

Explanation:

Janissaries were soldiers in the Ottoman Empire who had once been Christians, prior to their enslavement and forced service in the Ottoman army. Janissaries were an important component of the Ottoman armed forces and a significant component of Ottoman society.

Example Question #2 : Ethnic Identities

The marriage of Ferdinand and Isabella was instrumental in the formation of which of these nations?

Possible Answers:

Portugal

Italy

Spain

Germany

France

Correct answer:

Spain

Explanation:

In the fifteenth century, Spain was not a unified country and was instead divided into a few different kingdoms. With the marriage of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile, the unification of Spain was effectively complete. Their marriage marked the emergence of Spain as a colonial and global power.

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