Question

“Since 1930, the Brazilian government has been undertaking a social policy whose main goal is to protect the working classes through the betterment of their working conditions, elevating their standard of life and extending the social security system. Indeed, the 1937 constitution proclaims that work is a social duty and establishes that it is the government’s responsibility to guarantee the fulfillment of this duty by securing favorable conditions for workers and protecting them. In this way, the constitution guarantees the right of organization, recognizes the current unions as representatives of the workers, and authorizes the signing of collective-bargaining agreements.

Salaries are protected and must provide a minimum standard of life. The workday is eight hours long, and there is one mandatory day of rest. Paid vacations are mandatory. Workers are protected against unjustified dismissal. Minors under 14 years old are not allowed to work, and women and men under 18 years old cannot work in unhealthy sites. The constitution establishes that the state must provide medical assistance to workers, and it must protect maternity and create insurance against old age and disability. The constitution also compels professional associations to assist its members. In order to enforce these principles, the constitution anticipates the creation of a Work Tribunal whose goal will be to arbitrate in all work-related litigation.”

Document produced by the Brazilian government of Getúlio Vargas circa 1940; Vargas had come to power in 1930 following a military coup.

Which of the following best explains the historical significance of views such as those expressed in the passage?


A. They show that many political leaders used the economic challenges of the Great Depression to justify implementing repressive policies.

B. They show that many states responded to the Great Depression by using race-based ideologies to mobilize economic resources.

C. They show that, in response to the disruptions of the Great Depression, many political leaders saw it as their duty to take an active role in guiding economic life.

D. They show that, in response to the disruptions of the Great Depression, some states reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing liberal economic policies.

Answer 1

this question is too big