Carefully read the passage shown below and then answer the questions that follow.
The Great Fire of London, a catastrophic event that reshaped the city's history, ignited in the early hours of September 2, 1666. Originating from a bakery on Pudding Lane, the fire rapidly engulfed the wooden structures of medieval London, fueled by a prolonged dry spell and strong winds. Over four days, the blaze decimated the heart of the city, leaving an estimated 70,000 of its 80,000 inhabitants without homes, though it remarkably claimed few lives. King Charles II and his brother, James, Duke of York, took active roles in combating the fire, even as the flames threatened the survival of London itself. The disaster's aftermath prompted a significant urban renewal, leading to the reconstruction of the city with stone buildings, wider streets, and the creation of the first professional firefighting service. The fire also had profound impacts on insurance, architecture, and urban planning. Sir Christopher Wren, tasked with much of the city's redesign, left a lasting legacy through iconic structures like St. Paul's Cathedral. The event catalyzed changes in building regulations that emphasized fire resistance, fundamentally altering the city's architectural character. Today, the Great Fire of London remains a symbol of resilience and transformation, serving as a reminder of the city's ability to rebuild and emerge stronger from adversity. It marks a pivotal moment in London's long history, illustrating the indomitable spirit of its people and the evolution of urban landscapes in response to disaster.
1. Which monarch played a direct role in addressing the disaster?
King Henry VIII
Queen Elizabeth I
King Charles II
King Charles II, along with his brother, was actively involved in the firefighting efforts.
Queen Victoria

2. What initial event sparked the massive conflagration in 1666?
A blacksmith's forge
An overturned lantern
A bakery mishap
The blaze began in a bakery, quickly spreading due to the city's wooden architecture and dry conditions.
A lightning strike

3. How did the city's landscape change post-fire?
Taller skyscrapers
Wider streets, stone buildings
The reconstruction included wider streets and stone buildings, marking a significant shift in urban design.
Increased fortifications
More green spaces

4. What lasting impact did the fire have on city planning and architecture?
A move to rural development
Fire-resistant regulations
The aftermath led to new building regulations that prioritized fire resistance, influencing future architectural decisions.
The creation of public parks
Gothic revival style

5. What symbolizes London's resilience in the wake of the 1666 disaster?
Rebirth and stronger infrastructure
The city's ability to rebuild and emerge stronger, with improved infrastructure and planning, embodies its resilience.
Victory in subsequent wars
Its rapid population growth
Expansion of the British Empire

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