3
Answer: BSet 3: Inferences
Explanation
PASSAGE
In medieval Europe, spices like pepper and cinnamon were extraordinarily expensive—sometimes worth more than their weight in gold. Merchants who controlled spice trade routes became immensely wealthy, and wars were fought over access to these commodities.
What does the passage imply about spices in medieval Europe?
A. They were easily cultivated throughout Europe.
B. They held significant economic and political importance.✓ Correct
C. They were only used for medicinal purposes.
D. They were freely distributed among the population.
Detailed Explanation
Spices being worth more than gold, creating wealthy merchants, and sparking wars = major economic and political significance.
Key Evidence:
• "worth more than their weight in gold"
• "wars were fought"
Why others are wrong: A (High cost implies scarcity, not easy cultivation.), C (Uses aren't limited to medicine.), D (Extreme expense rules out free distribution.).