The question asks about the percentage of the Russian empire's population that relied on agriculture for their livelihood. This is a factual question related to the socio-economic conditions of the Russian Empire, particularly before the 1917 revolution. Knowledge of historical demographics and economic structures is required to answer this.
A) 85 — Historical records indicate that about 85% of the Russian Empire's population earned their living from agriculture, making it a predominantly agrarian economy, especially when compared to other major European powers at the time.
The question asks about Russia's historical role as a major exporter of a particular commodity. This requires general knowledge about global trade patterns and the economic history of Russia.
Correct Option: D) Grain
The question asks to identify the prominent industrial areas in the Russian Empire. This requires knowledge of the economic geography and historical development of industries in Russia during that period.
C) Both a and b. St Petersburg and Moscow were the two most prominent and historically significant industrial centers in the Russian Empire, playing crucial roles in its economic development and industrialization.
The question describes a period of industrial expansion in Russia during the 1890s, linked to the extension of its railway network. We need to identify the economic factor that would naturally increase in industry during such a period of growth and infrastructure development.
B) Foreign investment — During periods of rapid industrialization and infrastructure development, like Russia's in the 1890s, significant capital is required. Foreign investment often plays a crucial role in funding the establishment of new factories and the expansion of industries, especially when domestic capital might be insufficient. The extension of the railway network made Russia a more attractive destination for foreign capital by improving logistics and market access.
The question describes a scenario where the production of a particular resource doubled, and simultaneously, iron and steel output quadrupled. This indicates a strong correlation between the resource and industrial production, particularly in heavy industries like iron and steel. We need to identify which of the given options fits this description, typically referring to a period of significant industrial growth.
A) Coal — Coal is the most logical answer because it was the primary fuel source for industrial machinery and the smelting of iron and steel during periods of significant industrial growth. An increase in coal production directly facilitates and often precedes a boom in heavy industries like iron and steel.
The question asks to fill in the blank regarding government supervision of factories concerning wages and work hours. This relates to labor laws and worker protection, which are common topics in competitive exams.
D) Minimum
Governments supervise factories to ensure minimum wages and limited hours of work. This is a fundamental aspect of labor laws designed to protect workers from exploitation. A minimum wage ensures that workers are paid at least a living wage, while limited hours prevent overwork and promote work-life balance.