17. Why was jerky important for military use? a) It spoiled quickly b) It was lightweight portable, and had a long shelf life c) It was difficult to make and store d) It required a special cooking method before eating

## Step 1<br />Jerky, a type of dried and preserved meat, has been used by various cultures for centuries, including military personnel. The question asks us to identify the reason why jerky was important for military use.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />The options provided are:<br />a) It spoiled quickly<br />b) It was lightweight portable, and had a long shelf life<br />c) It was difficult to make and store<br />d) It required a special cooking method before eating<br /><br />## Step 3<br />We need to evaluate each option based on the characteristics of jerky that would make it useful for military use.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Option a) suggests that jerky spoils quickly. This would not be a desirable trait for military use, as it would mean the food would not last long.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Option b) states that jerky is lightweight, portable, and has a long shelf life. These are all desirable traits for military use, as they allow for easy transportation and storage, and ensure that the food will last for a long time.<br /><br />## Step 6<br />Option c) suggests that jerky is difficult to make and store. This would not be a desirable trait for military use, as it would make the food less accessible and more difficult to prepare.<br /><br />## Step 7<br />Option d) suggests that jerky requires a special cooking method before eating. This would not be a desirable trait for military use, as it would require additional time and resources to prepare the food.