Question

Read an excerpt from an informational document. In comparing the advantages of England for manufacturing with those of other countries, we can by no means overlook the excellent commercial position [location] of the country—intermediate [middle] between the north and south of Europe, and its insular [inward looking] situation, which, combined with the command of the seas, secures our territory from invasion . . . . [O]ur ports command an unobstructed passage to the Atlantic and to every quarter of the world. —Edward Baines, History of the Cotton Manufacture in Great Britain,1835 Which detail best supports the thesis that Britain’s geographic advantages supported trade? “its insular [inward looking] situation” “combined with the command of the seas” “an unobstructed passage to the Atlantic” “secures our territory from invasion”

Answer 1

“an unobstructed passage to the Atlantic”

This "unobstructed passage to the Atlantic" allows for access "to every quarter of the world." The ability to reach every part of the word allows for Britain to trade with anyone and everyone. It best supports the thesis that Britain's geographic advantages supported trade. The detail "insular [inward looking] situation" makes Britain seem closed off as it is focused on it being inside itself rather than open to others. "Combined with the command of the seas" indicates that Britain has access to the seas, but doesn't show how far reaching it goes. "Secures our territory from invasion" would be better to prove that Britain is well protected and safe from invading forces.