7th Grade American History Midterm Exam
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What continent do most scientist believe thefirst Americans came from?
- A.
Africa
- B.
Asia
- C.
Europe
- D.
North America
Correct Answer
B. AsiaExplanation
Most scientists believe that the first Americans came from Asia. This is supported by archaeological evidence and genetic studies, which suggest that the ancestors of Native Americans migrated from Asia to North America via a land bridge called Beringia during the last Ice Age. This theory is known as the Beringia migration theory and is widely accepted in the scientific community.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What word best describes what the Mayflower Compact was?
- A.
Tribute to their ancestry
- B.
Letter to Church of England
- C.
Promise with each other
- D.
Treaty with an enemy
Correct Answer
C. Promise with each otherExplanation
The Mayflower Compact was a document created by the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower in 1620. It was an agreement or promise made among themselves to establish a self-governing colony in the New World. The compact was a way for the Pilgrims to establish order and ensure the cooperation and unity of the settlers. It outlined the principles and rules for the new colony, emphasizing the importance of working together for the common good. Therefore, the word "promise with each other" accurately describes what the Mayflower Compact was.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Whom did the seperatist group, the Pilgrims, seperate from?
- A.
Other Pilgrims
- B.
Native Americans
- C.
King george III
- D.
Church of England
Correct Answer
D. Church of EnglandExplanation
The Pilgrims separated from the Church of England.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Of the three types of colonies found in the United States, the southern colonies had the best land suited for farming.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the southern colonies in the United States had the best land suited for farming. This is because the southern colonies had a warm climate, fertile soil, and a longer growing season compared to the other types of colonies. These factors made it ideal for cultivating crops such as tobacco, rice, and indigo, which were major cash crops in the southern colonies. The abundance of fertile land and favorable agricultural conditions contributed to the economic success and prosperity of the southern colonies.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What does the term "Magna Carta" refer to?
- A.
English Bill of Rights
- B.
Great Charter
- C.
Great Leader
- D.
Parliament
Correct Answer
B. Great CharterExplanation
The term "Magna Carta" refers to the Great Charter. The Magna Carta was a document signed in 1215 in England, which established certain rights and limitations on the power of the monarchy. It is considered an important milestone in the development of constitutional law and individual liberties. The Magna Carta is often seen as a symbol of the rule of law and the protection of individual rights.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Of all the British taxing on the American colonist, the first tax was the ________________ tax.
Correct Answer
sugar
SugarExplanation
The correct answer is "sugar" or "Sugar". This tax refers to the Sugar Act of 1764, which was imposed by the British on the American colonists. The Sugar Act was a tax on imported sugar and other goods, aimed at raising revenue for the British government. It was one of the first major taxes imposed on the colonists and was met with resistance, as it was seen as a violation of their rights.Rate this question:
- 7.
Which of the following was not a tax the British put on American colonist?
- A.
Townshend Act
- B.
Parliament tax
- C.
Intolerable Acts
- D.
Tea Act
Correct Answer
B. Parliament taxExplanation
The British Parliament did impose taxes on the American colonists, such as the Stamp Act, Sugar Act, and Townshend Act. However, "Parliament tax" is not a specific tax that the British put on the American colonists. Therefore, it can be concluded that "Parliament tax" was not a tax imposed by the British on the American colonists.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Who is said to have started the Boston Massacre?
- A.
It is unsure still who started this conflict
- B.
The British
- C.
The Americans
- D.
The colonist
Correct Answer
A. It is unsure still who started this conflict -
- 9.
What group of American colonist was perhaps the biggest problem the British had to deal with?
- A.
East India Company
- B.
Sons of Thunder
- C.
John Adams
- D.
Sons of Liberty
Correct Answer
D. Sons of LibertyExplanation
The Sons of Liberty were a group of American colonists who were actively involved in protesting against British rule and advocating for independence. They organized protests, boycotts, and acts of civil disobedience, which posed a significant challenge for the British authorities. The Sons of Liberty played a crucial role in galvanizing public support for the American Revolution and were seen as a major problem by the British government as they actively resisted British control and authority.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What was the British reaction to the Sons of Liberties actions at the Boston Tea Party?
- A.
British fled
- B.
Imprisoned the Sons of Liberty
- C.
Executed Samuel Adams
- D.
Created the Intolerable Act
Correct Answer
D. Created the Intolerable ActExplanation
The British reaction to the Sons of Liberty's actions at the Boston Tea Party was to create the Intolerable Act. This act was a series of punitive measures imposed on the American colonies as a response to their protest against British policies. The Intolerable Act aimed to assert British control over the colonies and punish them for their defiance. It included measures such as the closure of the Boston Harbor, the imposition of martial law, and the quartering of British troops in private homes. These actions further escalated tensions between the colonies and Britain, ultimately leading to the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The Battle of Lexington was the first battle of the American Revolution.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Battle of Lexington was not the first battle of the American Revolution. The first battle of the American Revolution was the Battle of Lexington and Concord, which took place on April 19, 1775. The Battle of Lexington, on the other hand, occurred on the same day but before the Battle of Concord.Rate this question:
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- 12.
_______________ ____________________ was elected Americas first commander of the Continental Army.
Correct Answer
George WashingtonExplanation
George Washington was elected as America's first commander of the Continental Army.Rate this question:
- 13.
What title was given to those who supported the British.
- A.
Torries
- B.
Loyalists
- C.
Patriots
- D.
Royalty
Correct Answer
B. LoyalistsExplanation
Loyalists were given the title to those who supported the British during the American Revolution. They were individuals who remained loyal to the British crown and opposed the American independence movement. Loyalists believed in maintaining a strong connection with Britain and were often seen as traitors by the Patriots, who were fighting for American independence. Loyalists faced persecution and discrimination during and after the war, with many of them fleeing to Canada or other British colonies.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What country did the Americans and George Washington ally with to eventually defeat the British?
- A.
Spain
- B.
Canada
- C.
Mexico
- D.
France
Correct Answer
D. FranceExplanation
During the American Revolutionary War, the Americans and George Washington formed an alliance with France to eventually defeat the British. France provided crucial military support, including troops, naval assistance, and supplies, which greatly aided the American cause. The French Navy played a significant role in the decisive American victory at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. This alliance with France was instrumental in securing American independence from British rule.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The French sent only ammunition and money to help defeat the British during the American Revolution.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
During the American Revolution, the French not only sent ammunition and money to help defeat the British, but they also provided crucial military support in the form of troops, naval assistance, and strategic alliances. Their involvement was instrumental in the ultimate victory of the American colonies over the British. Therefore, the statement that the French only sent ammunition and money is incorrect.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What battle officially ended Britains reign in the United States?
- A.
Yorktown
- B.
Bunker Hill
- C.
Valley Forge
- D.
Lexington
Correct Answer
A. YorktownExplanation
The battle of Yorktown is the correct answer because it was the decisive battle of the American Revolutionary War. It took place in 1781 and resulted in the surrender of the British army under General Cornwallis. This victory effectively ended Britain's control over the United States and led to the recognition of American independence.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What is the title given to America's first attempt at an organized government?
- A.
Congress
- B.
Articles of Confederation
- C.
The Virginia Plan
- D.
The New Jersey Plan
Correct Answer
B. Articles of ConfederationExplanation
The correct answer is "Articles of Confederation." The Articles of Confederation was the first attempt at establishing a central government in the United States after gaining independence from Britain. It was a weak form of government that gave most powers to the individual states, resulting in a lack of unity and effectiveness. The Articles were eventually replaced by the Constitution, which created a stronger federal government.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What word is best associated with the term "ratify"?
- A.
To vote
- B.
To negotiate
- C.
To appeal
- D.
To approve
Correct Answer
D. To approveExplanation
To ratify means to give formal approval or consent to something, usually by a vote or official action. Therefore, the word "approve" is the best associated term with ratify.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The Virginia Plan proposed a legislature with only 1 house.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Virginia Plan proposed a legislature with two houses, not one. This plan, put forward by James Madison, called for a bicameral legislature consisting of a lower house and an upper house. The lower house, known as the House of Representatives, would be elected by the people, while the upper house, known as the Senate, would be elected by the members of the lower house. This plan was a key component of the discussions and debates that led to the creation of the United States Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The Virginia Plan proposed a legislature with the number of representatives based on each states population.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Virginia Plan, proposed by James Madison, did indeed suggest a legislature where the number of representatives would be based on each state's population. This plan was put forward during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and became one of the key proposals for the structure of the new government in the United States. It aimed to create a more proportional representation system, giving larger states more influence in the legislative branch. Ultimately, this idea was incorporated into the Constitution and led to the creation of the House of Representatives, where the number of seats is determined by population size.Rate this question:
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- 21.
What can the combination of the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan can best be titled?
- A.
House of Burgesses
- B.
Great Compromise
- C.
3/5's Compromise
- D.
Congress
Correct Answer
B. Great CompromiseExplanation
The combination of the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan is best titled the Great Compromise. This compromise was reached during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and resolved the conflict between large and small states regarding representation in the legislative branch. The Virginia Plan proposed a bicameral legislature with representation based on population, favoring larger states, while the New Jersey Plan called for equal representation for all states. The Great Compromise created a bicameral legislature with the House of Representatives based on population and the Senate with equal representation for all states, striking a balance between the two plans.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The 3/5's Compromise dealt predominantly with what type of people?
- A.
Slaves
- B.
Southerners
- C.
Poor people
- D.
Northerners
Correct Answer
A. SlavesExplanation
The 3/5's Compromise dealt predominantly with slaves. This compromise, which was made during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, determined that enslaved individuals would be counted as three-fifths of a person for the purpose of determining a state's population. This compromise was primarily a result of the disagreement between the northern and southern states regarding the representation of slaves in Congress.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Federalist were those who supported the idea of a new Constitution but also wanted a King to rule.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because Federalists were those who supported the idea of a new Constitution but did not want a King to rule. They believed in a strong central government and a system of checks and balances, but they did not advocate for a monarchy or a King.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What major advantage did the Federalist have over the Antifederalists?
- A.
Newspaper companies
- B.
Railroads
- C.
More populare representatives
- D.
Appeal to peoples emotions
Correct Answer
A. Newspaper companiesExplanation
The Federalists had a major advantage over the Antifederalists in terms of newspaper companies. This means that the Federalists had more control and influence over the media, allowing them to shape public opinion and garner support for their cause. By having access to newspapers, the Federalists were able to effectively communicate their ideas and arguments to a wider audience, giving them an upper hand in the debate against the Antifederalists.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Antifederalist wanted legislative power to remian with each state.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because the Antifederalists, during the time of the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, were concerned about the centralization of power and the potential loss of state sovereignty. They believed that the legislative power should primarily reside with each individual state rather than being concentrated in a strong central government. They advocated for a decentralized system where states would have more autonomy and control over their own affairs.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following states would not be considered "large and in charge"?
- A.
Pennsylvania
- B.
North Carolina
- C.
Virginia
- D.
New York
Correct Answer
B. North CarolinaExplanation
North Carolina would not be considered "large and in charge" because it is not one of the most populous states in the United States. While Pennsylvania, Virginia, and New York are all larger states in terms of population and influence, North Carolina has a smaller population and therefore would not be considered "large and in charge".Rate this question:
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- 27.
________________________ was the last major state to ratify the new Constitution.
Correct Answer
New YorkExplanation
New York was the last major state to ratify the new Constitution. This means that it was one of the final states to formally approve and accept the new Constitution as the supreme law of the land. The fact that New York was the last major state to ratify the Constitution suggests that there may have been some hesitation or opposition to the new framework of government in that state. Nonetheless, once New York ratified the Constitution, it became binding and effective for the entire country.Rate this question:
- 28.
___________________ was the last state to ratify the Constitution.
Correct Answer
Rhode IslandExplanation
Rhode Island was the last state to ratify the Constitution. This means that it was the final state to officially approve and adopt the Constitution as the supreme law of the land. The ratification process required the approval of at least nine out of the thirteen states, and Rhode Island was the thirteenth state to do so. Its delay in ratifying the Constitution was due to concerns about the lack of a Bill of Rights to protect individual freedoms. Eventually, Rhode Island ratified the Constitution on May 29, 1790, after the Bill of Rights had been added.Rate this question:
- 29.
The Bill of Rights are located in the back of the Declaration of Independence.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False -
- 30.
How many amendments are in the Bill of Rights?
- A.
5
- B.
10
- C.
27
- D.
16
Correct Answer
B. 10Explanation
The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution. Therefore, the correct answer is 10.Rate this question:
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- 31.
What is another word for "tariff"?
- A.
A debt
- B.
A tax
- C.
An agreement
- D.
An act
Correct Answer
B. A taxExplanation
A tariff is a tax imposed on goods or services that are imported or exported. It is a form of tax that is specifically related to international trade. Therefore, the correct answer is "a tax".Rate this question:
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- 32.
Who became responsible for paying off a 52 million dollar war debt during Washington's presidency?
- A.
Alexander Hamilton
- B.
Thomas Jefferson
- C.
George Jefferson
- D.
John Adams
Correct Answer
A. Alexander HamiltonExplanation
During Washington's presidency, Alexander Hamilton became responsible for paying off a 52 million dollar war debt. Hamilton, as the Secretary of the Treasury, implemented various economic policies to strengthen the nation's finances and stabilize the economy. One of his key initiatives was the creation of a plan to address the national debt, which included assuming state debts and establishing a national bank. Hamilton's efforts played a crucial role in managing the war debt and laying the foundation for the country's financial stability.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The Whiskey Rebellion was a revolt from Pennsylvania farmers refusing to pay the whiskey tax.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Whiskey Rebellion was indeed a revolt by Pennsylvania farmers who refused to pay the whiskey tax. In 1791, the United States government imposed a tax on distilled spirits, which greatly affected the farmers who relied on whiskey production as a source of income. The farmers believed that the tax was unfair and detrimental to their livelihoods, leading to their rebellion against the government's authority. This event played a significant role in shaping the early history of the United States and its relationship with taxation and government control.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Which of the following political parties was not created as a result of President Washington resigning?
- A.
Democratic-Republicans
- B.
Democrats
- C.
Federalist
Correct Answer
B. DemocratsExplanation
The Democratic party was not created as a result of President Washington resigning. The Democratic party was formed in the early 19th century by supporters of Andrew Jackson, while George Washington, the first President of the United States, served from 1789 to 1797. Therefore, the Democratic party cannot be attributed to his resignation.Rate this question:
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- 35.
What significance does the historic court case Marbury vs. Madison have in US history?
- A.
Allowed political parties endless funds
- B.
Gave slaves freedom to move to north
- C.
Allowed Supreme Court to make final decisions
- D.
Provided specific powers to the President
Correct Answer
C. Allowed Supreme Court to make final decisionsExplanation
Marbury vs. Madison is significant in US history because it established the principle of judicial review, which allows the Supreme Court to interpret the Constitution and determine the constitutionality of laws. This landmark case solidified the Court's authority to make final decisions on legal disputes and played a crucial role in shaping the balance of power among the three branches of government.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Who is credited, but shouldnt be, for the Louisiana Purchase?
- A.
George Washington
- B.
William Clark
- C.
Meriwther Lewis
- D.
Thomas Jefferson
Correct Answer
D. Thomas JeffersonExplanation
Thomas Jefferson is credited, but shouldn't be, for the Louisiana Purchase because although he was the President at the time and authorized the purchase, it was actually Robert Livingston and James Monroe who negotiated and secured the deal with France. Jefferson played a more passive role in the process and was initially hesitant about the purchase.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which of the following American buildings were not destroyed by the British during the War of 1812?
- A.
The presidents mansion
- B.
The Capitol building
- C.
The Pentagon
Correct Answer
C. The PentagonExplanation
The Pentagon was not destroyed by the British during the War of 1812. However, it is important to note that the Pentagon was not built until the 1940s, long after the War of 1812 had ended. Therefore, it was not a target for destruction during that specific conflict.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Francis Scott Key worte the "Star Spangled Banner" while being imprisoned at Fort McHenry.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The given statement is true. Francis Scott Key did write the "Star Spangled Banner" while being imprisoned at Fort McHenry. During the War of 1812, Key witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry from a ship, and he was inspired by the American flag still flying over the fort after the battle. This experience led him to write the poem that would later become the lyrics of the national anthem of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Who won the War of 1812?
- A.
No clear winners
- B.
The Americans
- C.
The British
- D.
The Native Americans
Correct Answer
A. No clear winnersExplanation
The War of 1812 ended in a stalemate, with no clear winners. Both the Americans and the British had their victories and defeats throughout the war, but ultimately neither side achieved a decisive victory. The Treaty of Ghent, signed in 1814, restored pre-war boundaries and resolved many of the issues that had led to the conflict, but did not result in any significant territorial gains or losses for either side. Therefore, it can be concluded that there were no clear winners in the War of 1812.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The _________________ _____________________ was an idea by President Monroe that the United States was closed to further colonizing of other countries.
Correct Answer
Monroe DoctrineExplanation
The Monroe Doctrine was an idea proposed by President Monroe that stated the United States would not allow further colonization of other countries. This policy aimed to protect the newly independent nations in Latin America from European intervention and to assert the United States' dominance in the Western Hemisphere. The doctrine became a cornerstone of American foreign policy and set the precedent for future US involvement in the affairs of other nations in the Americas.Rate this question:
- 41.
What terms is said to have been used by President Jackson to identify Native Americans?
- A.
US property
- B.
Indians
- C.
Conquered subjects
- D.
Trouble seekers
Correct Answer
C. Conquered subjectsExplanation
President Jackson referred to Native Americans as "conquered subjects" because he believed that they were defeated in battle and therefore subject to the authority of the United States. This term reflects the historical context of the time, when Native American tribes were forcibly removed from their lands and placed on reservations as part of the government's policy of westward expansion. Jackson's use of this term demonstrates his perspective on the relationship between the United States and Native Americans, viewing them as a conquered people rather than sovereign nations.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The ____________________ ____ _____________________ was a brutal journey Native Americans were forced to take against their will by the US government.
Correct Answer
Trail of Tears
trail of tearsExplanation
The Trail of Tears was a tragic and brutal journey that Native Americans were forcefully made to undertake by the US government. This journey was against their will and resulted in the displacement and death of thousands of Native Americans.Rate this question:
- 43.
During the Missouri Compromise, Maine wanted accepted as a free state.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
During the Missouri Compromise, Maine wanted to be accepted as a free state. This is true because as part of the compromise, Maine was admitted to the Union as a free state in 1820, balancing the admission of Missouri as a slave state. The compromise aimed to maintain a balance between free and slave states to avoid further conflict and preserve the delicate political equilibrium in the United States at that time.Rate this question:
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- 44.
What should be considered the most important invention during the time of slavery?
- A.
Steel plows
- B.
The cotton gin
- C.
Burlap bags
- D.
Metal braced wagon wheels
Correct Answer
B. The cotton ginExplanation
The cotton gin should be considered the most important invention during the time of slavery because it revolutionized the cotton industry. Before the cotton gin, separating cotton fibers from the seeds was a labor-intensive process that required a large number of slaves. The invention of the cotton gin by Eli Whitney in 1793 made this process much more efficient, increasing cotton production and the demand for slave labor. This invention had a profound impact on the economy of the Southern United States and played a significant role in perpetuating and expanding the institution of slavery.Rate this question:
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- 45.
Which of the following people were not considered an "abolitionist"?
- A.
Sampson Hillsdale
- B.
Fredrick Douglas
- C.
Sojourner Truth
- D.
William Garrison
Correct Answer
A. Sampson HillsdaleExplanation
Sampson Hillsdale is not considered an "abolitionist" because there is no historical evidence or recognition of him being involved in the abolitionist movement. On the other hand, Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, and William Garrison are well-known abolitionists who actively fought against slavery.Rate this question:
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- 46.
Which woman is best associated with the Underground Railroad?
- A.
Lucretia Mott
- B.
Elizabeth Stanton
- C.
Elizabeth Cady
- D.
Harriet Tubman
Correct Answer
D. Harriet TubmanExplanation
Harriet Tubman is best associated with the Underground Railroad because she was a prominent abolitionist and political activist who helped enslaved African Americans escape to freedom in the North. She made numerous dangerous trips to the South, leading around 70 slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad network. Tubman's bravery and determination in fighting against slavery and helping others make her the most fitting choice for this association.Rate this question:
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- 47.
The ability to make interchangable parts is perhaps the biggest contribution of the Industrial Revolution.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because the ability to make interchangeable parts was a significant development during the Industrial Revolution. This innovation allowed for mass production and assembly line manufacturing, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. It also made repairs and replacements easier, as parts could be easily swapped out. This breakthrough had a profound impact on various industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture, and played a crucial role in shaping modern production methods.Rate this question:
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- 48.
______________________ ______________________ refers to the idea that one day the US would stretch from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
Correct Answer
Manifest Destiny
manifest destinyExplanation
Manifest Destiny refers to the belief that it was the destiny of the United States to expand its territory from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. This concept was popularized in the 19th century and was used to justify westward expansion, including the annexation of Texas, the Oregon Territory, and the Mexican-American War. The idea of Manifest Destiny was rooted in the belief in American exceptionalism and the desire to spread democracy and American values across the continent.Rate this question:
- 49.
The predominant reason for California becoming a state so fast is due to its enormous population.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
California did not become a state quickly because of its enormous population. The speed at which California became a state was primarily due to the discovery of gold in 1848, which led to a massive influx of people during the California Gold Rush. The population growth was a consequence of California's statehood, rather than the cause of it. Therefore, the given statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 50.
During the Compromise of 1850, slave trade came to an end in Washington DC.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
During the Compromise of 1850, the slave trade was indeed abolished in Washington DC. As part of the compromise, the slave trade was prohibited in the nation's capital, although slavery itself was still legal. This was a significant step towards the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States.Rate this question:
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