Hardest AP US History Exam Practice Test!
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In Februrary, Senator Joseph McCarthy of Wisconisn ignited a 2nd "Red Scare" with his claim that there were 205 known Communists employed in the US State Department.
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About This Quiz
Challenge your knowledge of pivotal 1950s US historical events with our AP US History practice test. Assess your understanding of key incidents, including McCarthy's Red Scare, the Korean War, and the Rosenberg trial, pivotal in shaping modern America.
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- 2.
Congress passed the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964. (Please get this right...)
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
The correct answer is 1960. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a landmark legislation passed by Congress that aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination in public facilities and employment. It was a significant step towards achieving equality and civil rights for African Americans. The act also prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, and it paved the way for further civil rights advancements in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 3.
MLK Jr led the famous civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
In the 1960s, Martin Luther King Jr. played a significant role in the civil rights movement in the United States. One of the most notable events he led was the famous civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965. This march was a pivotal moment in the fight for voting rights for African Americans and drew national attention to the issue of racial discrimination. Therefore, the correct answer is 1960.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Michael Jackson's "Thriller" sold 20 000 000 copies.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In the 1980s, Michael Jackson released his album "Thriller" which became one of the best-selling albums of all time. It is estimated that "Thriller" sold over 20 million copies worldwide. This immense success can be attributed to the album's innovative music videos, catchy songs, and Jackson's incredible talent and charisma. The 1980s marked a peak in Jackson's career, solidifying him as the King of Pop and making "Thriller" a cultural phenomenon.Rate this question:
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- 5.
George Bush defeated Democrat Michael Dukakis to become to 41st President of the US.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In the 1980 US presidential election, George Bush defeated Democrat Michael Dukakis to become the 41st President of the US. This implies that the correct answer is 1980, as it is the year in which George Bush won the election.Rate this question:
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- 6.
John F. Kennedy was sworn in as the 35th president of the US.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
John F. Kennedy was sworn in as the 35th president of the US in 1960. This is the correct answer because Kennedy was elected as president in the 1960 presidential election and was inaugurated on January 20, 1961. He served as president from 1961 until his assassination in 1963.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech on an August afternoon on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in DC.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in DC. The speech took place in the 1960s, specifically in the year 1963. It was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement and is considered one of the most iconic speeches in American history.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The last US ground troops came home from Vietnam and the US celebrated.
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Correct Answer
A. 1970Explanation
In 1970, the last US ground troops returned from Vietnam, marking the end of US involvement in the war. This event was significant and widely celebrated in the United States as it symbolized the conclusion of a highly controversial and divisive conflict. The war had lasted for several years, causing immense loss of life and generating significant opposition among the American public. The return of the troops in 1970 marked a turning point and brought a sense of relief and closure to many Americans.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Mr. Pasternak became a graduate of this high school and headed off to IUP to learn how to become a teacher.
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A. 1980 -
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MLK Jr. was assassinated by James Earl Ray in Memphis, TN.
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A. 1960 -
- 11.
The US and North Vietnam signed a peace agreement in Paris and American POW's began returning home.
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Correct Answer
A. 1970Explanation
In 1970, the US and North Vietnam signed a peace agreement in Paris, which marked the end of the Vietnam War. As a result of this agreement, American prisoners of war (POWs) held in North Vietnam were released and began returning home. This event was a significant milestone in the conflict and signaled a shift towards de-escalation and the eventual withdrawal of US troops from Vietnam.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Jimmy Carter was sworn in as the 39th President of the US.
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Correct Answer
A. 1970Explanation
Jimmy Carter was sworn in as the 39th President of the US in 1977. He served as President from 1977 to 1981. Therefore, the correct answer is 1970.Rate this question:
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- 13.
President Reagan and three others were wounded in an assassination attempt.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In 1980, President Reagan and three others were wounded in an assassination attempt. This event took place during his presidency and had a significant impact on his administration. The assassination attempt occurred on March 30, 1981, when Reagan was shot by John Hinckley Jr. outside a hotel in Washington, D.C. The incident led to increased security measures for the President and highlighted the need for improved protection for public officials.Rate this question:
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- 14.
This was the peak of the post WWII "baby boom". There were an estimated 1.5 billion jars of baby food consumed and diaper sales exceeded $50 000 000.
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Correct Answer
A. 1950Explanation
During the 1950s, there was a significant increase in the number of births, known as the "baby boom," following the end of World War II. This period marked the peak of the baby boom, with a high demand for baby products, including baby food and diapers. The statement mentions that there were an estimated 1.5 billion jars of baby food consumed and diaper sales exceeded $50,000,000 during this time, indicating the high consumption and demand for these products. Therefore, the correct answer is 1950.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The first McDonalds restaurant opened its doors in San Bernadino, Cal.
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Correct Answer
A. 1950Explanation
The first McDonald's restaurant opened in San Bernardino, California in 1950. This marks the beginning of the iconic fast-food chain and its expansion worldwide.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The USSR took the lead in the "space race" when they launced the 184-pound Sputnik I satellite into space.
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A. 1950 -
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JFK orders a sharp increase in the number of US military "advisers" in South Vietnam.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
In 1960, JFK ordered a sharp increase in the number of US military "advisers" in South Vietnam. This decision was part of the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War, which escalated during the 1960s. The increase in military advisers was a significant step towards a larger US military presence in Vietnam, ultimately leading to direct combat involvement and a prolonged and controversial war.Rate this question:
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- 18.
On Nov. 22nd, Pres. Kennedy was shot and killed by Lee Harvey Oswald (we think...) as he was riding in an open limousine in downtown Dallas.
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A. 1960 -
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Martin Luther King Jr. wins the Nobel Peace Prize for his civil rights efforts.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
Martin Luther King Jr. won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his significant contributions to the civil rights movement in the United States. During the 1960s, King played a crucial role in advocating for racial equality and justice, leading nonviolent protests and delivering powerful speeches that inspired millions. His efforts to combat racial segregation and discrimination made a profound impact on American society and earned him international recognition, ultimately leading to his recognition as a Nobel laureate in 1964.Rate this question:
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- 20.
On June 25th, communist North Korean troops crossed the 38th Parallel into South Korea marking the beginning of the 3-year long Korean War.
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Correct Answer
A. 1950Explanation
In 1950, communist North Korean troops crossed the 38th Parallel into South Korea, which marked the beginning of the 3-year long Korean War. This event was significant because it led to a conflict between North Korea, supported by China and the Soviet Union, and South Korea, supported by the United States and other UN member countries. The war resulted in a stalemate and an armistice was signed in 1953, effectively dividing Korea into North and South.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The "Barbie Doll" first appeared. It was designed by a housewife named Ruth Handler and was named after her daughter.
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Correct Answer
A. 1950Explanation
In 1950, the "Barbie Doll" first appeared, designed by Ruth Handler, a housewife who named it after her daughter. This suggests that the correct answer is 1950.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Republican Richard Nixon and a young Democrat from Mass. named John F. Kennedy squared off in the presidential race.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
In 1960, Republican Richard Nixon and Democrat John F. Kennedy competed against each other in the presidential race. This marked a significant moment in American history as it was a clash between two prominent figures from opposing parties. Nixon, the incumbent Vice President, represented the Republican Party, while Kennedy, a young and charismatic politician from Massachusetts, represented the Democratic Party. The 1960 election was closely contested and is remembered for its televised debates, which played a crucial role in shaping public opinion. Ultimately, Kennedy emerged as the winner, becoming the 35th President of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Kennedy's VP, Lyndon B. Johnson, was sworn in as our nation's 36th President.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
In 1960, Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as the 36th President of the United States after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. This event occurred during a time of great turmoil and uncertainty in the country, and Johnson's presidency marked a significant shift in American politics and policies.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Black rights millitant Malcolm X was cut down by a black gunman while speaking in NYC.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
Malcolm X, a prominent black rights militant, was assassinated in 1965 while delivering a speech in New York City. He was shot multiple times by three gunmen, two of whom were identified as members of the Nation of Islam, a group he had previously been associated with. Malcolm X's assassination marked a significant event in the civil rights movement and had a profound impact on the fight for racial equality in the 1960s.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Illegal drugs, especially LSD, came into wide use amoung American counterculture.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
In the 1960s, illegal drugs, particularly LSD, became increasingly popular among the American counterculture. This era was marked by a significant cultural shift and rebellion against traditional values and norms. The use of drugs like LSD was seen as a form of protest and a means of exploring alternative states of consciousness. The 1960s counterculture movement embraced experimentation and non-conformity, leading to widespread drug use during this time.Rate this question:
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- 26.
N. Vietnam launched the massive Tet Offensive throughout S. Vietnam.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
The correct answer is 1960. The Tet Offensive was a major military campaign launched by North Vietnam and the Viet Cong in 1968 during the Vietnam War. It was a coordinated series of surprise attacks on South Vietnam's major cities and military bases. The offensive marked a turning point in the war, as it showed that the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces were still capable of launching large-scale attacks despite previous claims by the U.S. military that they were losing the war.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Astronaut Neil Armstrong took "one small step for man,, and one giant leap for mankind" when he became the first American to walk on the moon on July 20th.
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A. 1960 -
- 28.
The US celebrated its 200th birthday.
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A. 1970Explanation
In 1970, the US celebrated its 200th birthday. This implies that the country was founded in 1770, making 1970 the bicentennial year. The bicentennial celebration marked 200 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which established the United States as an independent nation. It was a significant milestone for the country and was commemorated with various events and festivities nationwide.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Ronald Regan defeated Jimmy Carter in the presidential race.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In the presidential race of 1980, Ronald Reagan defeated Jimmy Carter. This means that Reagan received more votes and support from the American people than Carter, resulting in his victory in the election.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Ronald Reagan became our 40th president.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
Ronald Reagan became the 40th president of the United States in 1980. This was the year when he won the presidential election and took office. Reagan served as the president from 1981 to 1989, making significant contributions to American politics and policies during his tenure.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Sandra Day O'Connor became the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In 1980, Sandra Day O'Connor became the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court. This was a historic milestone as it marked the breaking of gender barriers in the highest court of the United States. O'Connor's appointment paved the way for more women to pursue careers in law and politics, inspiring future generations of female leaders.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The space shuttle Challenger exploded shortly after launching, killing all seven crew members.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
The space shuttle Challenger exploded shortly after launching, killing all seven crew members in 1986. This tragic event occurred on January 28, 1986, just 73 seconds after liftoff. The explosion was caused by the failure of an O-ring seal in one of the solid rocket boosters, which led to the destruction of the external fuel tank. This disaster was a significant setback for the space program and led to a reevaluation of safety protocols and procedures.Rate this question:
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- 33.
President Reagan submitted the nation's first trillion-dollar budget.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In 1980, President Reagan submitted the nation's first trillion-dollar budget. This indicates that prior to 1980, the national budget had not reached the trillion-dollar mark. It is significant because it highlights the increasing size and complexity of the federal budget during Reagan's presidency. This budget likely reflected the growing expenses and priorities of the government at that time.Rate this question:
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- 34.
The Exxon Valdez struck a reef off the coast of Alaska and spilled millions of gallons of oil into the sea in one of the biggest ecological disasters in history.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In 1980, the Exxon Valdez, an oil tanker, hit a reef off the coast of Alaska, resulting in a massive oil spill. This incident is considered one of the largest ecological disasters in history. Millions of gallons of oil were released into the sea, causing severe damage to the marine ecosystem and wildlife. The spill had long-lasting effects on the environment and led to significant efforts in oil spill prevention and response.Rate this question:
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- 35.
The Godfather, starring Marlon Brando won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
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Correct Answer
A. 1970Explanation
In 1970, The Godfather, starring Marlon Brando, won the Academy Award for Best Picture. This film, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is widely regarded as one of the greatest movies of all time. It tells the story of the Corleone crime family and their struggles in the world of organized crime. The Godfather's success at the Academy Awards solidified its place in film history and cemented its status as a classic.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Amidst the Watergate Scandal, Nixon became the first and only US President to resign from office.
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Correct Answer
A. 1970Explanation
In 1970, amidst the Watergate Scandal, President Nixon resigned from office. The Watergate Scandal involved the illegal activities of the Nixon administration, including the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. As the scandal unfolded, it became clear that Nixon had been involved in the cover-up of the break-in and other illegal activities. Faced with impeachment and the threat of removal from office, Nixon chose to resign on August 8, 1974. This made him the first and only US President to ever resign from office.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Saigon fell to North Vietnam marking the end of the Vietnam War.
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Correct Answer
A. 1970Explanation
In 1970, Saigon fell to North Vietnam, which marked the end of the Vietnam War. This event was significant because it led to the reunification of Vietnam under communist rule. The fall of Saigon was a result of the North Vietnamese Army's successful military campaign, which culminated in the capture of the South Vietnamese capital. The Vietnam War was a long and costly conflict that involved the United States and its allies supporting South Vietnam against the communist forces of North Vietnam. The fall of Saigon in 1970 signaled the ultimate victory of the North Vietnamese and the end of the war.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The Eagles released their hit song "Hotel California".
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Correct Answer
A. 1970Explanation
The Eagles released their hit song "Hotel California" in the 1970s. This answer is correct because the song was released in 1977 as the title track of their album "Hotel California." The song became one of their most iconic and successful songs, reaching high positions on music charts and becoming a staple of classic rock radio.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Grease made its debut on the silver screen.
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Correct Answer
A. 1970Explanation
The movie "Grease" was released in 1978, which means it made its debut on the silver screen in the 1970s.Rate this question:
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- 40.
A terrorist truck bomb blew apart the US Marine headquarter in Beirut, Lebanon killing 241 US Marines.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In 1980, a terrorist truck bomb exploded at the US Marine headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon, resulting in the tragic deaths of 241 US Marines. This event was a significant attack during the Lebanese Civil War, where various factions and militant groups were engaged in conflict. The bombing highlighted the vulnerability of military installations and the dangers faced by the US military personnel deployed in the region. It also had a profound impact on US foreign policy and military involvement in Lebanon.Rate this question:
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- 41.
After defeating Democrat Walter Mondale in a landslide, Ronald Reagan began his second term at the age of 73. This made him the oldest president in US history.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
Ronald Reagan became the oldest president in US history when he began his second term at the age of 73. This happened after he defeated Democrat Walter Mondale in a landslide victory.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Apple introduced the Macintosh PC during the 3rd quarter of the Super Bowl.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
Apple introduced the Macintosh PC during the 3rd quarter of the Super Bowl in 1980. This means that in the year 1980, Apple launched the Macintosh PC during the Super Bowl event.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Workplace sexual harassment was held to be illegal by the Supreme Court.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
In 1980, the Supreme Court ruled that workplace sexual harassment is illegal. This landmark decision recognized that such behavior creates a hostile work environment and violates an individual's rights. Prior to this ruling, there was no clear legal framework in place to address sexual harassment in the workplace. The Court's decision in 1980 set an important precedent and established the legal basis for individuals to seek protection and justice against sexual harassment in their workplaces.Rate this question:
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- 44.
In early November, the Berlin Wall came down after serving as an ardent symbol of communism for over 28 years. This event seems to be the symbol that most associate with the end of the Cold War and the crumbling of communism in Europe.
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Correct Answer
A. 1980Explanation
The correct answer is 1980 because the Berlin Wall came down in early November, which suggests that it was still standing in the 1980s. The event of the Berlin Wall coming down is often seen as the symbol of the end of the Cold War and communism in Europe, indicating that it happened after the 1980s.Rate this question:
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- 45.
The Korean war comes to an end with both sides accomplishing very little.
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Correct Answer
A. 1950Explanation
The Korean war ended in 1950. This statement suggests that both sides involved in the war did not achieve significant accomplishments.Rate this question:
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- 46.
"Low Blow" Joe McCarthy finally met his match when his claims regarding communist-ties within the US Army were successfully provento be outlandish lies during the thirty-five days of televised "McCarthy Hearings". He was ultimately condemned by the Senate for "conduct unbecoming a member".
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Correct Answer
A. 1950Explanation
The correct answer is 1950 because the passage mentions the "McCarthy Hearings" which took place during that time. These hearings were televised and exposed McCarthy's claims about communist ties within the US Army as false. McCarthy was ultimately condemned by the Senate for his behavior during these hearings.Rate this question:
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- 47.
Actress and sex symbol Marilyn Monroe died of a drug overdose at the age of 36.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
Marilyn Monroe died of a drug overdose in 1962, which aligns with the given answer of 1960. She was a popular actress and sex symbol during the 1950s and early 1960s. Her death was a significant event in popular culture and marked the end of the "Golden Age of Hollywood."Rate this question:
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- 48.
Johnson is given Senate approval to expand the war by taking "all necessary measures to prevent further NV aggression" in Vietnam following an incident in the Gulf of Tonkin off the coast of North Vietnam.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
In 1960, Johnson was given Senate approval to expand the war in Vietnam. This approval was granted after an incident in the Gulf of Tonkin, where North Vietnam was accused of aggression. Johnson was authorized to take "all necessary measures" to prevent any further aggression from North Vietnam. This event marked a significant escalation of the Vietnam War and Johnson's involvement in it.Rate this question:
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- 49.
As escaltion begins, the number of US troops in Vietnam increase from 20 000 to 190 000.
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Correct Answer
A. 1960Explanation
The correct answer is 1960. This is because the question states that as escalation begins, the number of US troops in Vietnam increases from 20,000 to 190,000. Therefore, the year in which this escalation and increase in troops occurred must be 1960.Rate this question:
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