The state that Europeans came to eye like greedy creditors around a rich man's deathbed was the _______ Empire.
A. Ottoman
B. Russian
C. Austrian
D. Persian
I'm not sure what the answer is.
It probably was not Persian.
The other three empires fit -- depending upon the time period involved.
I thought it was Russia but im not positive.
I assume this is an exam that covers a wide time period. The best I can suggest is that you go back through your text materials to find the words "greedy creditors."
To find the answer to this question, we need to recall the historical context and analyze the relationship between Europeans and the mentioned empires during that time.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the decline of empires was occurring, Europeans perceived some empires as attractive targets for territorial expansion and gaining economic benefits. To determine which empire fits the description, let's evaluate each option:
A. Ottoman Empire: The Ottoman Empire was a vast and influential empire that existed from the 14th century to the early 20th century, covering Turkey, parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. However, during the mentioned time period, Europe was more interested in acquiring territories in Africa and Asia, rather than pursuing expansion into the Ottoman Empire. Hence, this may not be the correct answer.
B. Russian Empire: The Russian Empire was a significant power in Europe and Asia during the 18th and 19th centuries. Its vast territory and resources made it an attractive target for European expansion. However, the statement mentions a "rich man's deathbed," indicating that the empire in question was in a state of decline. During the specified time period, the Russian Empire was not facing such a decline, making it less likely to be the correct answer.
C. Austrian Empire: The Austrian Empire, also known as the Austro-Hungarian Empire, existed from 1804 to 1918 and encompassed various territories in Central Europe. Although it faced internal issues and tensions between different ethnic groups, it was not in a state of decline during the specified time period. Therefore, it is less likely to be the correct answer.
D. Persian Empire: The Persian Empire, also referred to as the Achaemenid Empire, was an ancient and influential empire that existed from the 6th century BC to the 4th century BC. Given the time frame mentioned in the question (late 19th and early 20th centuries), the Persian Empire had long ceased to exist. Hence, it is unlikely to be the correct answer.
Based on the analysis above, the most plausible answer is A. Ottoman Empire, as it aligns with the historical context of European interest in expanding their territories during the decline of empires.