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
21671
Which nation annexed Korea in 1910?
Answer:
Japan
Japan formally annexed Korea in 1910, ruling it as a colony until the end of World War II in 1945.
21672
Who led the Filipino resistance against both Spain and the United States?
Answer:
Emilio Aguinaldo
Emilio Aguinaldo declared Philippine independence from Spain but then fought a guerrilla war against the US annexation of the Philippines.
21673
The 'Jewel in the Crown' referred to which British colony?
Answer:
India
India was the most valuable of all Britain's colonies due to its raw materials (cotton, indigo, spices) and its massive market for British manufactured goods.
21674
Dollar Diplomacy is associated with which US President?
Answer:
William Howard Taft
Taft's policy encouraged US investment in Latin America and East Asia to promote American foreign policy goals through economic power rather than military force.
21675
The 'Treaty of Nanking' (1842) is an example of:
Answer:
An Unequal Treaty
The treaty forced China to cede territory (Hong Kong), pay reparations, and open ports, granting extraterritorial rights to the British.
21676
Which resource fueled the brutal exploitation of the Congo Free State?
Answer:
Rubber
The global demand for rubber (for tires) led to a system of forced labor and mutilation in the Congo to meet quotas.
21677
The 'Fashoda Incident' was a diplomatic standoff in Africa between:
Answer:
France and Britain
The incident occurred in Sudan when British and French expeditions met. France eventually withdrew, acknowledging British control over the Nile valley.
21678
Who defeated the Russian fleet at the Battle of Tsushima in 1905?
Answer:
Japan
Japan's victory over Russia at Tsushima was the first time in the modern era that an Asian power defeated a major European power, signaling Japan's rise.
21679
The 'Taiping Rebellion' was a massive civil war in:
Answer:
China
The Taiping Rebellion (1850–1864) against the Qing Dynasty was one of the deadliest conflicts in history, weakening China and allowing greater foreign penetration.
21680
Which country served as a buffer state between British Burma and French Indochina?
Answer:
Siam (Thailand)
Siam was the only Southeast Asian nation to maintain independence, partly by modernizing and serving as a neutral buffer between British and French spheres.