9

Set 5: Command of Evidence

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

The Treaty of Westphalia (1648) ended the Thirty Years' War and established the principle of state sovereignty—that each nation controls its own territory without external interference. This is considered a foundation of modern international relations.

What concept did the Treaty of Westphalia establish?

A. Global government.
B. The right of nations to govern themselves without outside interference.✓ Correct
C. Religious uniformity across Europe.
D. The dissolution of all European monarchies.

Detailed Explanation

This question requires you to identify evidence that supports a claim. The text defines state sovereignty as 'each nation controls its own territory without external interference.' The best evidence directly and explicitly supports the stated claim without requiring assumptions. Match specific textual details or data points to the claim being made. The correct answer provides clear, direct support. Strong evidence directly addresses the claim without requiring additional interpretation. When evaluating options, look for quotes or data that explicitly support the statement. Weak evidence may be tangentially related but doesn't provide direct proof.

Key Evidence:

• "state sovereignty"

• "without external interference"

Why others are wrong: A (Sovereignty is the opposite of global control.), C (Not mentioned; the war had religious aspects, but the result was sovereignty.), D (Not mentioned.).