Question 49

Consecutive years of drought in which food shortages lead to a popular revolt

This scenario exemplifies the evidence mentioned in the extract, as it directly connects climate change (drought) to significant societal consequences (food shortages and popular revolt). Such a chain of events highlights how detrimental climatic conditions can impact civilizations.

A) Slight warming in temperatures leading to more abundant harvests in a certain region

While this scenario presents a climate-related event, it describes a positive outcome (abundant harvests) rather than a negative consequence tied to the fall of civilizations. Thus, it does not align with the evidence of climate leading to societal collapse or instability.

B) The use by government of advanced technology to track storms more accurately

This scenario focuses on technological advancement rather than the impact of climate change itself. It does not illustrate how climate has directly affected civilizations negatively, making it irrelevant to the context of the extract.

C) The trading of goods by two neighboring countries during the harvest season

This option describes economic activity that may occur during favorable conditions but does not address any adverse effects of climate. Therefore, it fails to demonstrate a scenario where climate directly contributes to the decline of civilizations.

D) Consecutive years of drought in which food shortages lead to a popular revolt

This scenario is the most relevant to the extract's discussion on how climate change can undermine civilizations. Drought-induced food shortages can create social unrest, illustrating a direct connection between adverse climate conditions and the downfall of societal structures.

E) A temperate climate producing a rare and highly prized flower in a certain region

This scenario highlights a beneficial outcome of climate rather than a detrimental one. It does not relate to the evidence of climate contributing to the collapse or challenges faced by civilizations, making it inconsistent with the extract's focus.

Conclusion

The correct answer, consecutive years of drought leading to food shortages and revolt, is a clear example of how climate can have severe negative impacts on civilizations, as outlined in the extract. Other options either depict positive outcomes or focus on unrelated aspects, failing to illustrate the critical link between adverse climate conditions and societal collapse. This reinforces the importance of considering climate as a significant factor in the historical context of civilization decline.