General Knowledge MCQs
Topic Notes: General Knowledge
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
21631
Which French term refers to the 'civilizing mission' justification for empire?
Answer:
Mission Civilisatrice
The French justified colonization by claiming it was their duty to bring French culture, language, and civilization to 'backward' peoples.
21632
The 'Balfour Declaration' (1917) supported:
Answer:
A Jewish national home in Palestine
The British government issued the declaration to gain Jewish support during WWI, laying the groundwork for the British Mandate of Palestine.
21633
Who was the famous missionary and explorer who got 'lost' in Africa?
Answer:
David Livingstone
Livingstone explored the interior of Africa to spread Christianity and end the slave trade. He was found by Stanley in 1871.
21634
The 'Herero and Namaqua Genocide' was committed by:
Answer:
Germany
In German South West Africa (Namibia), German troops drove the Herero and Nama people into the desert to die, considered the first genocide of the 20th century.
21635
Which battle in 1757 marked the beginning of British political control in India?
Answer:
Battle of Plassey
Robert Clive's victory at Plassey over the Nawab of Bengal allowed the East India Company to become the dominant power in Bengal.
21636
The 'Great Trek' involved Boers moving inland to escape:
Answer:
British rule
When the British took over the Cape Colony and abolished slavery, the Boers trekked inland to establish their own independent republics.
21637
Which war gave Britain control of Hong Kong?
Answer:
First Opium War
The Treaty of Nanking ending the First Opium War ceded Hong Kong Island to Britain in perpetuity.
21638
The 'Platt Amendment' gave the US the right to intervene in:
Answer:
Cuba
Following the Spanish-American War, the Platt Amendment effectively made Cuba a US protectorate, allowing US intervention and leasing Guantanamo Bay.
21639
Joseph Conrad's novella 'Heart of Darkness' is set in:
Answer:
The Congo
The book critiques European imperialism, specifically depicting the brutality and madness within the Congo Free State.
21640
The 'Mau Mau Uprising' was a rebellion against British rule in:
Answer:
Kenya
The Mau Mau were a militant group (mostly Kikuyu) fighting against British settlers and colonial rule in the 1950s.