Set 8: Transitions (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The Treaty of Westphalia (1648) is often cited as the birth of the modern state system, establishing principles of territorial sovereignty and non-interference in domestic affairs. Historians have increasingly questioned this narrative, _______ noting that the treaties themselves contain no explicit statement of these principles and that sovereign states emerged gradually over subsequent centuries.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Detailed Answer Explanation
This question asks you to choose the transition that best connects two ideas. The traditional narrative is challenged by historians. 'However' introduces this scholarly critique of the conventional view. Transitions signal the relationship between sentences or paragraphs. Determine the logical relationship (addition, contrast, cause-effect, example) and select the transition that accurately expresses it. The right transition makes the relationship between ideas crystal clear. Consider what logical connection exists: Is the second idea adding to the first? Contrasting it? Showing a result? The transition should accurately reflect this relationship.
Key Evidence:
• "is often cited as the birth"
• "Historians have increasingly questioned"
Why others are wrong: A (Cause/effect - the questioning isn't caused by the narrative itself.), C (Comparison - historians are critiquing, not paralleling, the traditional view.), D (Concession - the historians are challenging, not confirming, the narrative.).
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