Question
Which of the following statements best summarizes feudal Japan’s social hierarchy?(1 point)
Responses
The emperor was at the head of the social hierarchy because that role had existed for so long.
The emperor was at the head of the social hierarchy because that role had existed for so long.
Farmers/peasants were lowest in the social hierarchy because there were not many of them.
Farmers/peasants were lowest in the social hierarchy because there were not many of them.
Merchants ranked highest in the social hierarchy because they became wealthy.
Merchants ranked highest in the social hierarchy because they became wealthy.
Members of the warrior classes tended to hold more political power in feudal Japan.
Members of the warrior classes tended to hold more political power in feudal Japan.
Members of the warrior classes tended to hold more political power in feudal Japan.
To determine which statement best summarizes feudal Japan's social hierarchy, we need to evaluate each option based on historically accurate information.
Option 1: "The emperor was at the head of the social hierarchy because that role had existed for so long."
Feudal Japan's social hierarchy was not solely based on the emperor's role. While the emperor held a significant position, much of the political power was actually held by the warrior classes.
Option 2: "Farmers/peasants were lowest in the social hierarchy because there were not many of them."
This statement partially captures the social hierarchy in feudal Japan. Farmers and peasants were indeed lower in the social structure due to their high numbers and labor-intensive work. However, this statement doesn't encompass the entire hierarchy.
Option 3: "Merchants ranked highest in the social hierarchy because they became wealthy."
This statement is not accurate. In feudal Japan, merchants were placed below the warrior classes. While merchants could accumulate wealth, they were still considered lower in the hierarchical structure due to their occupation being centered around trade.
Option 4: "Members of the warrior classes tended to hold more political power in feudal Japan."
This statement best summarizes feudal Japan's social hierarchy. The warrior classes, such as samurai, had considerable political power and influence. They served as feudal lords and held significant authority in the feudal system.
In conclusion, the statement that best summarizes feudal Japan's social hierarchy is: "Members of the warrior classes tended to hold more political power in feudal Japan."