Which of the following describes a short-term impact of the Harrying of the North?

• A. The north was left without crops or livestock and with burnt houses, leading to famine and even cannibalism.
• B. The north saw increased agricultural yields due to new policies.
• C. There was immediate population growth due to resettlement.
• D. Rivers were redirected to improve trade.

Answer: (A)

The immediate, brutal destruction of resources in the north after the rebellion is the key idea. The description of leaving the region without crops or livestock and with burnt houses shows the scorched-earth tactics used during the Harrying of the North, which wiped out food supplies and shelter and led to famine. In accounts from the period, the famine was so severe that extreme cases such as cannibalism were reported, illustrating how quickly the land and people were devastated. This rapid, local devastation is what defines the short-term impact. The other options don’t fit because there wasn’t an immediate increase in yields, no rapid population growth from resettlement, and no deliberate redirection of rivers for trade as part of this campaign.