China's desire for increased military strength and international recognition is partly due to _____?

The correct choice highlights the historical context of China's quest for military strength and international recognition. China's long history is characterized by periods of significant power and influence, as well as periods of vulnerability and humiliation, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries when foreign powers exerted control over Chinese territories and sovereignty. This history of victimization has fostered a strong nationalistic sentiment and a desire to restore China’s status as a formidable global power.

Understanding this context helps explain why the Chinese government emphasizes military modernization and seeks greater prominence on the world stage. The trauma of the past is a key driver in shaping current policies and ambitions, as leaders aim to ensure that China is no longer perceived as weak or subservient.

While globalization trends, capitalist reforms, and membership in international organizations also contribute to China's current position, they do not directly address the historical motivations behind its military aspirations. Globalization has enabled China to expand economically, while capitalist reforms have shifted its economic structure; however, the core issue driving military enhancement is the lingering impact of historical grievances. Membership in international organizations can enhance China's global standing but is more a means of engagement rather than a foundational cause for its military ambitions.