An Ancient World Civilizations History Quiz
Ancient World History Quiz on the Ancient Mesopotamians, the Egyptians, the Phoenicians, the Israelites, and the Persians.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Why was Mesopotamia so fertile?
- A.
It rained frequently
- B.
Mesopotamia was not fertile
- C.
The Tigris and Euphrates River overflowed their banks
- D.
A and C
- E.
None of these above
Correct Answer
C. The Tigris and Euphrates River overflowed their banksExplanation
The Tigris and Euphrates River overflowed their banks. This caused the rivers to deposit nutrient-rich silt onto the surrounding floodplains, making the soil extremely fertile. The regular flooding also helped to replenish the moisture content in the soil, creating ideal conditions for agriculture. As a result, Mesopotamia became known as the "Fertile Crescent" and was able to support a thriving agricultural society.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What were way or ways the flow of the rivers controlled?
- A.
Using irrigation
- B.
Making dikes
- C.
Using drainage ditches
- D.
A and B
- E.
A and C
Correct Answer
E. A and CExplanation
The flow of rivers can be controlled through the use of irrigation, which involves diverting water from the river to agricultural fields. This helps regulate the amount of water reaching different areas. Additionally, making dikes, which are embankments built along the river, can help control the flow by preventing flooding and directing water in a specific direction. Similarly, using drainage ditches can also control the flow by providing a channel for excess water to be directed away from the river. Therefore, the correct answer is A and C, as both irrigation and drainage ditches are ways to control the flow of rivers.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Mesopotamians were polytheistic.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Mesopotamians were polytheistic, meaning they believed in and worshipped multiple gods. This is evident from their numerous religious texts and artifacts that depict various gods and goddesses. They had a complex pantheon with gods representing different aspects of life and nature. The Mesopotamians believed that these gods controlled various aspects of their world and sought to appease them through rituals and offerings. This polytheistic belief system was an integral part of their culture and influenced their daily lives, religious practices, and societal structures.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What were the powers of kings?
- A.
Led armies
- B.
Supervised public works building
- C.
Organized workers for irrigation
- D.
All of these above
- E.
A and B
Correct Answer
D. All of these aboveExplanation
The powers of kings included leading armies, supervising public works building, and organizing workers for irrigation. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of these above" or option D.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The Sumerians had a government that was a...
Correct Answer
TheocracyExplanation
The Sumerians had a government that was a theocracy. This means that their government was based on religious authority, where the rulers were considered to have divine or religious legitimacy. In a theocratic government, religious leaders hold the highest power and make decisions based on religious beliefs and principles. In the case of the Sumerians, their government was likely led by priests or priest-kings who were believed to have a direct connection with the gods and were responsible for maintaining religious rituals and practices in society.Rate this question:
- 6.
What was a ziggurat and what was its purpose?
- 7.
What was the name of the writing that the Sumerians invented?
Correct Answer
cuneiformExplanation
Cuneiform is the correct answer because it was the form of writing that was invented by the Sumerians. Cuneiform was created around 3000 BCE and was used to write the Sumerian language, as well as various other languages in the ancient Near East. It consisted of wedge-shaped marks made on clay tablets using a stylus. Cuneiform was an important development in human history as it allowed for the recording of information and the development of literature, law, and other written documents in ancient Mesopotamia.Rate this question:
- 8.
Why was writing important for the Sumerians?
- 9.
What was the code of Hammurabi?
- 10.
What natural barriers gave Egypt protection from foreign invaders?
- 11.
The Egyptians were monotheistic
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement "The Egyptians were monotheistic" is true. Monotheism refers to the belief in only one god. In ancient Egypt, the religion initially started as polytheistic, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses. However, during the reign of Pharaoh Akhenaten, Egypt briefly transitioned to a monotheistic religion centered around the worship of the sun god Aten. This period is known as the Amarna Period. After Akhenaten's death, Egypt reverted back to its traditional polytheistic beliefs. Therefore, while monotheism was not a permanent feature of Egyptian religion, there was a period in which the Egyptians practiced monotheism.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Describe the Mummification process.
- 13.
Who were the Hyksos?
- 14.
Hatsheput was...
Correct Answer
the first female pharaohExplanation
Hatsheput is known as the first female pharaoh because she successfully ruled as a pharaoh in ancient Egypt. Despite the traditionally male-dominated role, Hatsheput took on the title of pharaoh and wielded political power and authority. She is remembered for her successful reign, during which she initiated numerous building projects and expanded trade networks. Her reign was a significant milestone in ancient Egyptian history, as it challenged gender norms and paved the way for future female leaders.Rate this question:
- 15.
What was the name of the language used in Egypt?
- A.
Cuneiform
- B.
Hieroglyphics
- C.
Semitic Languages
- D.
A and B
- E.
A, B, and C
Correct Answer
B. HieroglyphicsExplanation
Hieroglyphics is the correct answer because it was the writing system used in ancient Egypt. Hieroglyphics were a combination of pictorial symbols and phonetic signs, and they were used to write various texts, including religious texts, historical records, and everyday documents. The use of hieroglyphics was widespread in ancient Egypt and played a crucial role in their culture and communication. Cuneiform, on the other hand, was a writing system used in ancient Mesopotamia, not Egypt. Semitic languages refer to a group of languages, including Arabic and Hebrew, but they are not specific to Egypt. Therefore, the correct answer is Hieroglyphics.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Describe nomads and their lifestyle.
- 17.
The Hittites were...
Correct Answer
An Indo-European speaking peopleExplanation
The Hittites were an Indo-European speaking people. This means that their language belonged to the Indo-European language family, which includes languages such as English, Spanish, French, and many others. The Hittites were known for their powerful empire in ancient Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) during the Bronze Age. They left behind a rich historical and cultural legacy, including their language, which has been deciphered and studied by linguists.Rate this question:
- 18.
Who were the Phoenicians and describe their lifestyles.
- 19.
Describe Israel and their lifestyles.
- 20.
The Jews were monotheistic
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Jews were monotheistic, meaning they believed in and worshipped only one God. This is a significant aspect of Judaism, as it sets it apart from other ancient religions that often practiced polytheism, believing in multiple gods. The belief in monotheism is deeply rooted in Jewish religious texts, such as the Torah, and continues to be a fundamental principle of the faith today.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Assyrians were...
- A.
Superb fighters
- B.
Semitic-speaking
- C.
Used terror
- D.
Committed atrocities
- E.
All of these above
Correct Answer
E. All of these aboveExplanation
The Assyrians were known for being superb fighters, as they were skilled in warfare and had a powerful army. They were also Semitic-speaking, belonging to the same language family as other ancient Semitic peoples. Additionally, the Assyrians were infamous for their use of terror as a tactic in warfare, instilling fear in their enemies. They were also known for committing atrocities, such as brutal massacres and forced deportations. Therefore, the correct answer is that the Assyrians were all of the above.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Nebuchadnezzar was...
Correct Answer
The Chaldean king of BabylonExplanation
Nebuchadnezzar was the Chaldean king of Babylon. The Chaldeans were a Semitic people who established the Neo-Babylonian Empire, and Nebuchadnezzar II was one of their most famous rulers. He reigned from 605 BC to 562 BC and is known for his military campaigns, architectural achievements (such as the Hanging Gardens of Babylon), and his role in the Babylonian captivity of the Jewish people. Under his rule, Babylon became a prominent and powerful city, and Nebuchadnezzar is often mentioned in biblical and historical texts as a significant figure in ancient Mesopotamian history.Rate this question:
- 23.
The Persians were...
Correct Answer
Indo-Europeans living in Southwest AsiaExplanation
The Persians were a group of people who belonged to the Indo-European linguistic group and lived in the region of Southwest Asia. This region is known for its diverse cultures and civilizations, and the Persians were one of the prominent groups in this area. They had their own language, known as Old Persian, and established the Achaemenid Empire, one of the largest and most powerful empires in ancient history. The Persians made significant contributions to art, architecture, literature, and governance, leaving a lasting impact on the region.Rate this question:
- 24.
Describe the Fall of Persia.
- 25.
What is Zoroastrianism?
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Jan 10, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Feb 18, 2010Quiz Created by
Chrralph
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