Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

What describes the author’s main argument regarding market competition in the 1600s?

1. The global market increasingly featured market competition among various luxury and bulk goods

2. Competition was limited to local markets with little international trade

3. The spice trade dominated all other markets in Europe

4. Only textile goods were subject to fierce competition in Europe

The correct answer is: The global market increasingly featured market competition among various luxury and bulk goods

The assertion that the global market increasingly featured market competition among various luxury and bulk goods highlights the dynamic and expanding nature of trade during the 1600s. This period witnessed the rise of European powers engaging in international trade, driven by the exploration of new territories and the demand for diverse goods. The growing competition was not only limited to local markets but also encompassed international trade routes, where countries competed for dominance in various commodities, such as spices, textiles, and precious metals. This competition facilitated the development of a more complex global economy, characterized by a variety of products exchanged across different regions. In contrast, the other choices offer a more limited view. Suggesting that competition was confined to local markets disregards the extensive maritime trade networks established during this era. The notion that the spice trade dominated all other markets overlooks the significance of other goods, including textiles and manufactured items, that also played a crucial role in the economy. Lastly, claiming that only textile goods faced intense competition fails to recognize the broader context of global trade involving a variety of goods. Thus, the correct answer reflects the comprehensive competition that emerged in the global market during the 1600s.