Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

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Prepare for the AP European History Exam. Study with interactive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding of European history to ensure success on your test!

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What claim did Toscanelli make about China in his passage?

It was a politically unstable region
It was a source of valuable trading commodities
It was culturally similar to Europe
It was isolated from global trade

The correct answer is: It was a source of valuable trading commodities

The claim that Toscanelli made about China as a source of valuable trading commodities is rooted in the historical context of the time. During the late 15th century, there was a burgeoning interest in trade routes to Asia, particularly because of the wealth associated with commodities like silk, spices, and precious metals. Toscanelli, an Italian scholar and cartographer, was among those who emphasized the vast riches and resources that could be found in China. His belief in the wealth of the East contributed to the motivations behind exploration efforts, such as those led by Christopher Columbus, who sought new trade routes to access these valuable goods. This perspective highlights the economic allure that Asia represented to European powers, steering their ambitions toward exploring and establishing trade networks with China.