Question

Describe recent divisions and changes to political systems in the Middle East.(1 point)
Responses

The end of apartheid in South Africa, as well as the end of various dictatorships throughout the continent, including in the Sudan, caused a strengthening of political systems.
The end of apartheid in South Africa, as well as the end of various dictatorships throughout the continent, including in the Sudan, caused a strengthening of political systems.

The rulers of various countries have used their power to eliminate term limits, which is a sign of a weak political system.
The rulers of various countries have used their power to eliminate term limits, which is a sign of a weak political system.

A lack of needed resources, such as food and medical care; social or cultural divisions; trauma from historical or contemporary events; and other factors caused protests.
A lack of needed resources, such as food and medical care; social or cultural divisions; trauma from historical or contemporary events; and other factors caused protests.

The regime changes of the Arab Spring were caused by division and frustrations with the region’s political systems, which caused protests in the region.

Answer 1

Correct responses: the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th statements.

- 2nd: True — several regional leaders have removed or extended term limits to stay in power, reflecting weakened or authoritarian political systems.
- 3rd: True — shortages of food/medicine, social and sectarian divisions, and historical or recent trauma have driven many protests.
- 4th: True — frustrations with political systems and divisions sparked the Arab Spring protests and led to regime change in some countries.

1st is incorrect — it refers to South Africa and general African dictatorships, not recent political changes in the Middle East.