Final answer:
The AK-47 assault rifle was designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov and originates from the Soviet Union, making it widely used due to its durability and ease of use.
Step-by-step explanation:
The AK-47, or Kalashnikov, is an assault rifle that originates from the Soviet Union. It was designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov and first used by Soviet forces in 1948. Due to its durability, low production cost, and ease of use, it has become one of the most widely used shoulder weapons in the world. Although other countries, including China, have produced variants of the AK-47, the original design and production began in the Soviet Union, making the answer to the question C) Soviet Union.