Social Studies Praxis Practice Test

Which of the following was a major consequence of the treaties that ended the First World War?

1. A. The Romanov dynasty was overthrown in the first phase of the Russian Revolution, and the Bolsheviks took power in the second phase.

2. B. European powers applied the principle of national self-determination to their colonies.

3. C. The dismantling of empires in central, eastern, and southeastern Europe led to the creation of numerous unstable states.

4. D. Germany and Austria were admitted with nonvoting status to the League of Nations.

The correct answer is: C. The dismantling of empires in central, eastern, and southeastern Europe led to the creation of numerous unstable states.

The major consequence of the treaties that ended the First World War was the dismantling of empires in central, eastern, and southeastern Europe, which led to the creation of numerous unstable states. The collapse of empires such as the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman Empires resulted in a significant redrawing of national boundaries and the establishment of new countries. This process often ignored ethnic, cultural, and historical factors, leading to tensions and conflicts within these newly formed states. For example, a mix of different ethnic groups within borders created by treaties often resulted in instability, civil strife, and, in some cases, further conflicts as groups sought autonomy or independence. Understanding this consequence is essential as it highlights how the outcomes of the war and subsequent treaties influenced the geopolitical landscape of Europe and set the stage for future conflicts, including World War II.