6

Set 11: Command of Evidence (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

A historian argues that the invention of the printing press was the primary driver of the Protestant Reformation because it allowed for the rapid dissemination of ideas that challenged the Catholic Church's authority.

Which piece of evidence would most strongly support the historian's argument?

A. The Catholic Church also used the printing press to print indulgences.
B. Martin Luther's Ninety-five Theses were printed and circulated across Germany within two weeks of being written.✓ Correct
C. The printing press was invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 1440s.
D. Literacy rates in Europe remained low for centuries after the invention of the press.

Detailed Explanation

This question requires you to identify evidence that supports a claim. **Choice B is the best answer.** The argument is that the press drove the Reformation by allowing 'rapid dissemination of ideas.' The fact that Luther's key text circulated across Germany 'within two weeks' directly demonstrates this rapid dissemination and its link to the Reformation. Choice C is a fact about invention, not its effect. Choice D would weaken the argument (low literacy limits impact). Choice A suggests the Church also benefited, which might weaken the 'challenge' aspect. 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:

• "rapid dissemination of ideas"

• "circulated... within two weeks"

Why others are wrong: C (Irrelevant - background fact), D (Weakens argument), A (Nuanced/Weakens argument).

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