3

Set 1: Command of Evidence (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

The 'Great Man Theory' of history posits that history is shaped by unique individuals. However, the Annales School argues that long-term geographic, social, and economic trends ('la longue durée') are more significant. They contend that Napoleon, for instance, was merely a product of the social currents of post-revolutionary France.

How would a historian from the Annales School likely interpret the rise of a dictator?

A. As the result of the dictator's unique genius and charisma.
B. As an inevitable outcome of underlying social and economic structures.✓ Correct
C. As a random anomaly unrelated to history.
D. As a direct contradiction of the 'longue durée' concept.

Detailed Explanation

The Annales School focuses on 'long-term. .. trends' and views individuals as 'products' of these currents. Thus, a dictator is an outcome of structures, not unique genius.

Key Evidence:

• "merely a product of the social currents"

• "trends... are more significant"

Why others are wrong: A (This is the 'Great Man Theory' view.), C (They look for structural causes, not randomness.), D (It fits their concept.).

← PreviousNext →