Đề ôn thi Đề thi tốt nghiệp THPT môn Tiếng Anh - Mã đề THPT-125

(18) __________. Located in the heart of France, this iconic metropolis boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. (19) __________, Paris has inspired countless artists, writers, and lovers for centuries.

The city's nickname, "The City of Lights," can be attributed to two key factors. In the 17th century, Paris implemented a pioneering public lighting system, illuminating its streets with oil lamps and becoming a model for urban illumination across Europe. This earned it the early moniker of "la Ville Lumière." Secondly, during the Age of Enlightenment in the 18th century, Paris emerged as a global center of intellectual and philosophical thought. (20) __________, the city radiated knowledge and progress, further solidifying its reputation as a beacon of enlightenment.

Today, Paris boasts an array of iconic landmarks that draw millions of visitors annually. From the awe-inspiring Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, (21) __________, the city offers a captivating blend of history, art, and culture. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque banks of the Seine River, explore the charming boutiques and cafes of Montmartre, or witness the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles, a testament to the city's regal past.

(22) __________, a trip to Paris is an unforgettable experience. From its captivating history to its modern-day vibrancy, the "City of Lights" continues to captivate and inspire travelers from all walks of life.

The history of piracy is surprisingly extensive, dating back to ancient times. The earliest recorded instances involve pirates in the Mediterranean Sea, preying on Greek and Roman merchant ships. During the Middle Ages, Viking raiders terrorized coastal settlements across Europe. Perhaps the most iconic era, however, is the "Golden Age of Piracy" in the Caribbean from the 1650s to the 1730s. This period saw legendary figures like Blackbeard and Calico Jack rack up incredible wealth and notoriety by plundering treasure-laden ships sailing from the New World.

The decline of traditional empires and the rise of powerful navies contributed to the eventual suppression of piracy in the 18th and 19th centuries. However, it never truly disappeared. The late 20th and early 21st centuries witnessed a resurgence of piracy, particularly in the waters off Somalia and Southeast Asia. While romanticized images of pirates often focus on swashbuckling adventures and buried treasure, modern piracy is a serious issue.

Modern-day pirates are often heavily armed and operate with sophisticated tactics, targeting cargo ships and oil tankers for ransom. They often hold crews hostage, demanding millions of dollars in exchange for their safe return. These acts of violence disrupt global trade, cost the shipping industry billions of dollars annually, and endanger the lives of mariners. International organizations and navies actively work to combat this threat, patrolling high-risk areas and apprehending pirates.

Despite these efforts, modern piracy remains a persistent problem. Poverty, weak governance, and the vastness of the seas contribute to the continued existence of this illegal activity. Addressing the root causes, such as improving economic opportunities and strengthening law enforcement in affected regions, is crucial to effectively combatting piracy in the long term.

[I] Transportation innovations have profoundly shaped cultural interactions, effectively shrinking the world and fostering interconnectedness. [II] Throughout history, advancements such as the steam engine, automobile, and airplane have broken down geographical barriers, enabling the spread of people and ideas across vast distances. [III] Consequently, they have ushered in an era of unprecedented cultural exchange. [IV]

The impact of these advancements extends beyond mere physical mobility. The advent of the internet, for instance, has created a virtual space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can connect and share information instantaneously. This digital revolution has facilitated the dissemination of cultural products like music, movies, and literature, fostering a globalized cultural landscape where trends and ideas transcend national boundaries. Furthermore, improved transportation networks have enabled mass migrations, leading to the formation of multicultural societies and the fusion of different cultural traditions.

The rise of high-speed rail networks exemplifies the cultural impact of transportation. These networks not only facilitate rapid travel between cities but also promote regional integration. For example, the Shinkansen in Japan has not only accelerated economic activity but also fostered a sense of shared cultural identity among different regions. Similarly, the European Union's high-speed rail network has contributed to a greater sense of European unity, facilitating cultural exchange and promoting understanding between different member states.

However, the cultural impact of transportation innovations is not without its challenges. The ease of travel and communication can lead to cultural homogenization, as global brands and trends displace local customs and traditions. Furthermore, increased interconnectedness can exacerbate existing cultural tensions and create new forms of social inequality. Therefore, it's crucial to approach transportation advancements with a thoughtful and nuanced perspective, recognizing both their potential to enrich cultural diversity and the challenges they pose to cultural preservation.