What was the deepest common element in agricultural expansion and plantation expansion?

Correct answer: Both converted forest land into controlled production land

Both agricultural expansion and plantation expansion involved clearing forests and converting the land into controlled areas for cultivation or commercial crops. Thus, the central common feature was the conversion of forest land into production land. Option B is incorrect because colonial forest policies generally restricted, rather than strengthened, local communities’ control. Exam tip: Link deforestation with land needed for agriculture and market-oriented plantations.