Which of the following best explains the development of
banana republics? (1 point)
Powerful governments take political control of weaker
countries to gain territory.
A powerful country conquers weaker neighbors to create
buffer zones for its defense.
Countries allow for the creation of independent enclaves
within its borders to take advantage of resources.
External economic influence and internal political
corruption combine to exploit the resources of poor
countries.
External economic influence and internal political corruption combine to exploit the resources of poor countries.
The best explanation for the development of banana republics is that external economic influence and internal political corruption combine to exploit the resources of poor countries.
The best explanation for the development of banana republics is the combination of external economic influence and internal political corruption that exploit the resources of poor countries.
To arrive at this answer, let's break down each option:
1) Powerful governments taking political control of weaker countries to gain territory: This explanation does not specifically address the exploitation of resources in poor countries that characterizes banana republics.
2) A powerful country conquering weaker neighbors to create buffer zones for its defense: This explanation focuses more on territorial expansion and defense rather than the economic exploitation of resources.
3) Countries allowing for the creation of independent enclaves within their borders to take advantage of resources: This explanation comes closer to the reality of banana republics, as they often involved the establishment of independent enclaves within a country's borders. However, it does not address the role of external economic influence and internal political corruption.
4) External economic influence and internal political corruption combining to exploit the resources of poor countries: This is the most accurate explanation for the development of banana republics. Banana republics were often characterized by profitable industries, such as banana production, being controlled by foreign companies or interests. These companies would exert significant economic influence on the country, while corrupt local elites colluded with them to maintain their power, often to the detriment of the country's population.
Therefore, the correct explanation is that external economic influence and internal political corruption combined to exploit the resources of poor countries, leading to the development of banana republics.