Final answer:
European nations did create 'Spheres of Influence' in China to control trade, and the answer to the student's question is b) True. These spheres allowed for exclusive trade rights and were part of greater imperialistic efforts by various nations, counteracted by the U.S. Open Door Notes to ensure equal trade rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
European nations indeed created Spheres of Influence in China with the intent of encouraging and controlling trade relations. This practice involved foreign powers, like Japan, Russia, France, and Germany, establishing areas in China where they had exclusive rights to trade, set tariffs, and build transportation infrastructure. The answer to the student's question is b) True. The concept of 'Spheres of Influence' was part of a broader quest by these powers to exploit international markets and assert their dominance. Moreover, the U.S., under Secretary of State John Hay, promoted the 'Open Door Notes' policy to ensure that trading rights were respected equally, regardless of the sphere of influence, in an effort to maintain China's territorial integrity and prevent colonization by European powers.