HIST 410N FINAL EXAM 2 – QUESTION AND ANSWERS

HIST 410N FINAL EXAM 2 – QUESTION AND ANSWERS Question: 1. (TCO 1) Historical research involves four main tasks. Discover refers to the task of: (Points: 4) • locating primary sources to learn the facts • asking questions like "Who created the source and why?" • analyzing all the available primary sources and judging which is the most accurate • distributing the new findings to the world Explanation Historical research refers to the process of understanding, studying, and explaining past events. Its aim is to arrive at particular conclusions concerning past occurrences that may help to anticipate or explain present or future events. Historians analyze and interpret information gathered from their sources to draw conclusions about a topic's significance in history. 2. (TCO 6) The United States entered World War I because it: (Points: 4) • had to honor alliance commitments • desired to acquire territory, especially colonies • was hostile to German submarine warfare and German militarism • was interested in building up its military establishment Explanation In 1915, Germany had enacted a policy of unrestricted submarine warfare against any ships that entered the British war zone. President Woodrow Wilson maintained neutrality until Germany ignored an agreement to ensure passenger safety before destroying enemy ships. Despite a pledge to stay out of the war, the U.S. government was a major trading partner of Britain, placing American ships in Germany's line of fire. On April 6, 1917, the United States officially declared war against Germany after the country repeatedly attacked armed and unarmed vessels traveling to Britain, resulting in American casualties. 3. (TCO 5) Nicholas II of Russia abdicated the throne following: (Points: 4) • the Bolshevik takeover • the return of Lenin to Russia • both of the above • the failure of his troops to put down demonstrations in Petrograd Explanation