Which of the following best identifies the starting point for the expansion of the Russian Empire?

(1 point)

A. Persia

B. Moscow

C. China

D. St. Petersburg

B. Moscow

The correct answer is B. Moscow.

To find the answer to this question, we need to identify the starting point for the expansion of the Russian Empire. One way to accomplish this is by examining the given options and evaluating their historical significance in relation to the expansion of the Russian Empire.

A. Persia: While Russia did interact with Persia during its expansion, it was not the starting point of the empire's expansion.

B. Moscow: Moscow is a historically significant city in Russia, but it was already a part of the Russian Empire and served as its capital. Therefore, it cannot be considered the starting point for its expansion.

C. China: Russia did have interactions with China, particularly in Siberia, but it does not serve as the starting point for the expansion.

D. St. Petersburg: St. Petersburg was founded by Peter the Great in 1703 and became the capital of the Russian Empire, but it also does not mark the starting point of the empire's expansion.

From the given options, B, C, and D can be eliminated.

The correct answer is A. Persia, as it was a significant region that Russia encountered during its expansion across Central Asia and the Caucasus in the 18th and 19th centuries. While it may not be the initial starting point, it played a vital role in the empire's expansion.