Look at the chart showing the size of European armed forces in 1914.
| Country | Standing Army | Reservists | Warships |
|-------------------|---------------|------------|----------|
| Austria-Hungary | 810,000 | 2,000,000 | 28 |
| France | 1,125,000 | 2,400,000 | 62 |
| Germany | 2,200,000 | 6,300,000 | 97 |
| Great Britain | 711,000 | - | 185 |
| Russia | 1,200,000 | 3,200,000 | 30 |
Which of the following is the best conclusion that can be drawn from the chart?
A. Because it had the smallest army, Great Britain was the weakest nation.
B. European nations were seeking a peaceful means of setting their differences.
C. European nations had built large military forces and were preparing for war.
D. Countries with the biggest armies tended to have the most warships.
Answer (2)
\boxed{European nations had built large military forces and were preparing for war.}
Explanation
Analyze the problem and data The chart provides data on the armed forces of European countries in 1914, including the size of their standing armies, reservists, and number of warships. We need to analyze this data to determine the best conclusion regarding the state of European military power at that time.
Evaluate each conclusion Let's evaluate each of the given conclusions:
Because it had the smallest army, Great Britain was the weakest nation. This statement is not necessarily true. While Great Britain had a smaller standing army compared to other nations, it possessed the largest number of warships (185). Naval power was a significant factor, and Great Britain's naval strength could offset its smaller army size. Therefore, we cannot definitively conclude that Great Britain was the weakest nation.
European nations were seeking a peaceful means of setting their differences. The data in the chart suggests the opposite. The large standing armies and reservist numbers indicate a military buildup, not a pursuit of peaceful resolutions. This conclusion is unlikely.
European nations had built large military forces and were preparing for war. This conclusion aligns well with the data. The chart shows substantial standing armies and reservist forces across the major European powers. This military buildup suggests preparations for potential conflict. This is a strong contender.
Countries with the biggest armies tended to have the most warships. Let's examine this claim. Germany had the largest standing army (2,200,000) and a significant number of warships (97). However, Great Britain had a smaller army (711,000) but the most warships (185). Russia had a large army (1,200,000) but relatively few warships (30). Therefore, there isn't a clear correlation between army size and the number of warships.
Determine the best conclusion Based on the analysis, the best conclusion is that European nations had built large military forces and were preparing for war. The data clearly indicates a significant military buildup in terms of both standing armies and reservist numbers.
Examples
Understanding the military strength of nations can help analyze historical events and predict potential conflicts. For example, analyzing the arms race between countries can provide insights into the causes of wars and the strategies employed by different nations. This type of analysis is used by historians, political scientists, and military strategists to understand international relations and make informed decisions.
The best conclusion drawn from the chart is that European nations had built large military forces and were preparing for war, as indicated by their substantial standing armies and reservist numbers. Other conclusions overlook important factors, such as naval power or the implications of military buildup. Therefore, the correct answer is option C.
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