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Set 3: Inferences (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

The Treaty of Westphalia (1648) is often cited as the origin of the modern sovereign state system. However, historians note that the treaties actually affirmed overlapping jurisdictions and continued religious entanglements. The 'Westphalian' model of exclusive territorial sovereignty may be more prescriptive ideal than historical description—a myth that later actors found useful for legitimating their own arrangements.

What does the passage suggest about the relationship between historical events and their subsequent interpretation?

A. Historical events have single, stable meanings.
B. Later interpretations may reshape events into founding myths that serve contemporary purposes.✓ Correct
C. The Treaty of Westphalia immediately created modern nation-states.
D. All historians agree on the treaty's meaning.

Detailed Explanation

'More prescriptive ideal than historical description'—a 'myth' that served 'later actors' = reshaping for contemporary purposes.

Key Evidence:

• "myth that later actors found useful for legitimating their own arrangements"

Why others are wrong: A (Meaning evolved over time.), C (It 'affirmed overlapping jurisdictions.'), D ('Historians note' differences = disagreement.).

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