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
61
What was the primary goal of the League's Health Committee?
Answer:
To wipe out diseases like leprosy and malaria
The Health Committee (a forerunner to the WHO) worked successfully to combat epidemics like typhus in Russia and research diseases like leprosy and malaria.
62
The Vilna dispute (1920) was between which two countries?
Answer:
Poland and Lithuania
Polish troops seized Vilna, the capital of Lithuania. The League protested but failed to force Poland to withdraw, marking an early failure.
63
Which city housed the Permanent Court of International Justice?
Answer:
The Hague
The Permanent Court of International Justice was located in The Hague, Netherlands. It was the predecessor to the UN's International Court of Justice.
64
Who was the last Secretary-General of the League of Nations?
Answer:
Sean Lester
Sean Lester of Ireland served as the Secretary-General from 1940 until the League's dissolution in 1946, overseeing its operations during WWII.
65
Which Class of Mandates consisted of territories considered almost ready for independence?
Answer:
Class A
Class A Mandates (mostly former Ottoman territories like Syria and Iraq) were considered sufficiently advanced to be recognized as independent nations provisionally, with administrative advice.
66
Which secret agreement in 1935 undermined the League's sanctions against Italy?
Answer:
Hoare-Laval Pact
The Hoare-Laval Pact was a secret plan by the British and French foreign ministers to give two-thirds of Abyssinia to Italy, undermining the League's authority and sanctions.
67
The 'War of the Stray Dog' was a conflict between which two nations that the League successfully halted?
Answer:
Greece and Bulgaria
In 1925, a border skirmish between Greece and Bulgaria (allegedly started by a dog crossing the line) led to a Greek invasion. The League intervened, and Greece withdrew.
68
What was the requirement for voting on important decisions in the League's Assembly?
Answer:
Unanimous vote
The requirement for unanimity on substantive decisions was a major structural weakness, as a single member could veto actions, paralyzing the League.
69
In what year did the League of Nations formally dissolve?
Answer:
1946
The League officially dissolved in April 1946, transferring its assets and responsibilities to the newly formed United Nations.
70
Which country was expelled from the League of Nations in 1939?
Answer:
The Soviet Union
The Soviet Union was the only member ever expelled from the League, following its invasion of Finland (the Winter War) in late 1939.