Evaluate the impact of religious expansion and conversion on two societies in transition.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the impact of religious expansion and conversion on two societies in transition. Candidates may evaluate the impact of forced conversion on societies, for example the treatment of indigenous peoples in the Americas or the enforcement of religion during the Spanish Inquisition. Candidates may evaluate the impact of religious expansion and conversion on art, culture and science within their chosen societies; or the role of religious expansion and conversion in sparking conflict. The Reformation and Catholic Reformation (Counter-Reformation) and the subsequent impacts throughout society, including immigration to the New World, will likely be popular examples. Similarly, the expansion of Islam into West Africa during this period, specifically as evidenced by the decision of Musa I to make Islam the state religion of Mali, offers another example. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required candidates to make an appraisal of the impact of religious expansion and conversion on two societies in transition. Very few responses were seen.