To answer this question correctly, students must identify the event depicted in an iconic historical photograph and explain why the event is historically significant. For the first question, students should identify that the photo depicts a soldier flying the Soviet flag over the Reichstag during the Battle of Berlin in the Spring of 1945. For Question 2, successful students might choose to elaborate one or more of the following factors:
- Soviet capture of the German capital was an important milestone in the defeat of Nazi forces, bringing the war in Europe closer to an end.
- Adolf Hitler committed suicide as Soviet occupation of Berlin was imminent, which was important in ending Nazi resistance.
- Soviet occupation of Berlin may have given the Soviets greater leverage in determining the postwar fate of Germany and Eastern Europe and influenced the division of Germany during the Cold War.
Level: Proficient
Question 1
Student clearly and specifically identifies the event depicted in the photograph.
Question 2
Student clearly and specifically explains why the event was historically significant.
Level: Emergent
Question 1
Student provides correct information related to the event but does not clearly identify the significant event.
Question 2
Student correctly elaborates on the event but does not clearly explain why the event is historically significant.
Level: Basic
Question 1
Student does not correctly identify the event.
Question 2
Student does not provide a correct or relevant explanation for why the event was historically significant.
