Question
Discuss the reasons for China “turning in” and adopting a policy of isolationism.
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:
Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for China “turning in” and adopting a policy of isolationism. Candidates may approach the question by considering short and long term reasons or they may take a thematic approach by considering the social, political and economic reasons for China becoming isolationist. Social and political reasons discussed may include the nature of Confucianism in Chinese society, the xenophobic attitudes of the court and the impact of the Mongol invasions. Economic reasons may include a discussion of the fiscal crisis in the 15th Century, the nature and benefits of the Tributary System and the growth of piracy at this time. Candidates may also discuss whether external or internal reasons were of more significance to China “turning in”.
Question
Evaluate the impact of isolation on Japan during the 17th century.
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:
Candidates will make an appraisal of the impact of isolation on Japan by considering the positive and negatives effects of this policy. Candidates may approach the question by taking a thematic approach by discussing the social, political and economic effects of this policy or they may discuss the positive and then the negative impacts of “turning in”. Positive political effects discussed could include long periods of peace and political unity with few internal divisions. However, candidates may also argue that this led to a rigid society with almost no social mobility and that long periods of peace undermined the status of the samurai class. Candidates may also argue that although isolationism protected Japanese culture it also limited trade and prevented technological advances which made Japan more vulnerable in the long term to foreign powers.
Question
“European expeditions to East Asia and South-East Asia were motivated by a desire for wealth.” Discuss.
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:
Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the statement, with which they may agree, partially agree or disagree. Candidates may suggest that the belief in Europe about the limitless wealth of the Orient fuelled a desire by both individuals and monarchs to explore and break the Ottoman monopoly of the spice trade in order to reap the material benefits. Additionally or alternatively, candidates may argue that a range of other factors were also significant. These may include the expansion of Christianity against the growth of Islam, the rivalry between Protestants and Catholics after the Reformation, scientific curiosity and national rivalry. While no set response is expected, candidates must incorporate a review of the desire for wealth.
Question
Discuss the reasons for Japanese isolationism in the 17th century.
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:
Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for Japanese isolationism in the \(17\)th century that includes a range of arguments and factors. Candidates may suggest the reasons for sakoku (closed country policy) were the Tokugawa Shogunate’s fear of foreign conquest and the perception that missionaries and traders facilitated this. Additionally or alternatively, candidates may consider other significant factors such as the conversion of dissent daimyo to Christianity and the Shogunate’s fear of rebellion, its desire to control trade and the need to exclude all foreign influences to maintain cultural cohesion and internal peace. While no set response is expected, candidates must incorporate a review of the reasons for isolationism whilst clearly presenting their argument.