Question

Why did European powers compete for control of Muslim states? Check all that apply.

to win trade rights in Russia
to control natural resources in Persia
to claim territory in the Persian Gulf
to gain access to the Middle East
to control trade routes to India

Answer 1

Select all except the first one.

- to win trade rights in Russia — No. Russia was a rival great power, not a primary reason for competing over Muslim states.
- to control natural resources in Persia — Yes. Europeans sought Persia’s oil and other raw materials.
- to claim territory in the Persian Gulf — Yes. Gulf ports/bases were strategically important for trade and naval power.
- to gain access to the Middle East — Yes. Control of Muslim states gave political influence, markets, and strategic positioning in the region.
- to control trade routes to India — Yes. Securing land and sea routes (and later the Suez route) was vital for protecting access to India.