What directly led to the internal expansion and new economic activity in Western Europe from the eleventh to the fourteenth century?
A. New and extreme technological achievements
B. decline in religious activity
C. population reduction
D. competition among rival states
To determine the answer to this question, we need to understand the historical context of Western Europe during the specified time frame (eleventh to fourteenth century), and analyze the factors that directly led to internal expansion and new economic activity during this period.
One approach to finding the answer is to eliminate the options that do not align with historical facts or seem less likely based on context and reasoning.
A. New and extreme technological achievements: While technological advancements did occur during this time period, they were not the direct cause of the internal expansion and new economic activity. These advancements, such as the development of windmills and improved agriculture techniques, played a role in later periods but were not the primary driving force during the eleventh to fourteenth century.
B. Decline in religious activity: This option does not align with the historical context of Western Europe during this period. Religion still played a significant role in society, and it was not a decline in religious activity that directly led to internal expansion and economic growth.
C. Population reduction: The Black Death, a devastating pandemic, occurred in the mid-fourteenth century and led to significant population reductions. While this event had various economic consequences, it is not the primary factor that directly led to the internal expansion and new economic activity in Western Europe from the eleventh to the fourteenth century, as the population reduction occurred towards the end of this time frame.
D. Competition among rival states: This option aligns strongly with the historical context and reasoning. During the period between the eleventh and fourteenth centuries, Western Europe experienced political fragmentation and feudalism, resulting in numerous rival states competing for power, resources, and territories. This competition among rival states led to internal expansion, colonization efforts, and economic activities such as trade and commerce, as states sought to strengthen their positions and gain advantages over their rivals.
Based on the analysis, the most likely answer is D. Competition among rival states, as it aligns with the historical context and reasoning of the period in question.