Question

why did hongwu feel that a strong military was necessary?
to increase china’s territory
to prevent a rebellion by mongols
to spread confucian ideas
to protect his position as emperor

Explanation:

Hongwu (Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty) faced potential threats, including from the Mongols who still had influence, but more crucially, a strong military was vital to safeguard his imperial authority, prevent internal uprisings, and maintain control over the newly established dynasty. Among the options, "to protect his position as emperor" aligns best with the core reason for a ruler to maintain a strong military—securing their rule. Expanding territory wasn't the primary focus at that stage of consolidating power, spreading Confucian ideas is not a military - related goal, and while preventing Mongol rebellion was a concern, protecting his imperial position was a more overarching and fundamental reason.

Answer:

D. to protect his position as emperor