American History- Ch 13

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  • 1/22 Questions

    The completion of a transcontinental railroad helped to make rapid settlement of the West possible.

    • True
    • False
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About This Quiz

This quiz titled 'American History- CH 13' explores pivotal aspects of the American West, focusing on the Plains Indians, the cattle industry, and the influence of Mexican ranchers. It assesses knowledge on historical treaties, economic drivers, and the diverse backgrounds of cowboys, enhancing understanding of this transformative era.

American West Quizzes & Trivia

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  • 2. 

    The _________________ provided many basic needs for the Plains Indians and was central to their way of life.

    • Horse

    • Buffalo

    • Dog

    • Wolf

    Correct Answer
    A. Buffalo
    Explanation
    The buffalo provided many basic needs for the Plains Indians and was central to their way of life. The buffalo was a vital resource for the Plains Indians as they used every part of the animal for their survival. They relied on the buffalo for food, using the meat for sustenance and the hide for clothing and shelter. The bones were used for tools and weapons, while the sinew and horns were used for various purposes. The buffalo also played a significant role in their culture and spirituality, making it an essential part of their way of life.

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  • 3. 

    The windmill prevented crop dehydration by bringing up underground water.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The windmill is able to prevent crop dehydration because it brings up underground water. This is achieved through the use of a pump mechanism that is powered by the wind. As the wind turns the blades of the windmill, it activates the pump, which then draws water from underground sources such as wells or boreholes. This water can then be used to irrigate the crops, ensuring that they receive enough moisture to prevent dehydration. Therefore, the statement that the windmill prevents crop dehydration by bringing up underground water is true.

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  • 4. 

    The prospect of striking _________________ drew many settlers to the Great Plains

    • Gold

    • Oil

    • Silver

    • Copper

    Correct Answer
    A. Gold
    Explanation
    The prospect of striking gold drew many settlers to the Great Plains because gold was a highly valuable and sought-after resource. During the Gold Rush era, people flocked to areas where gold had been discovered in hopes of striking it rich. The allure of finding gold and making a fortune motivated settlers to brave the challenges and uncertainties of the Great Plains region.

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  • 5. 

    In 1872, the federal government created _____________________________ in an effort to help conserve the frontier.

    • Yellowstone National Park

    • Grand Canyon

    • Immigrants

    • California

    Correct Answer
    A. Yellowstone National Park
    Explanation
    In 1872, the federal government created Yellowstone National Park in an effort to help conserve the frontier. This was done as a means to preserve and protect the natural beauty and resources of the area. By designating it as a national park, the government aimed to ensure that the land and wildlife within it would be safeguarded for future generations. Yellowstone National Park became the first national park in the United States and set a precedent for the conservation of other natural areas across the country.

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  • 6. 

    _____________ Prevented animals from trampling crops and wandering off.

    • California

    • Cyrus McCormick

    • African Americans

    • Barbed wire

    Correct Answer
    A. Barbed wire
    Explanation
    Barbed wire prevented animals from trampling crops and wandering off. It was a cost-effective and efficient solution to protect agricultural fields and contain livestock. By creating a physical barrier, barbed wire helped farmers maintain the integrity of their crops and prevent animals from causing damage or escaping. This invention, pioneered by Cyrus McCormick, had a significant impact on agriculture, particularly in areas like California where crop cultivation was prevalent. Additionally, barbed wire played a role in shaping the history of African Americans, as it was used to segregate and control their movements during the era of racial discrimination.

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  • 7. 

    In the Treaty of Fort, Laramie, the ______________ agreed to move to a reservation.

    • Navajo

    • Sioux

    • Cherokee

    • Seminole

    Correct Answer
    A. Sioux
    Explanation
    In the Treaty of Fort Laramie, the Sioux agreed to move to a reservation. This treaty, signed in 1868, was an agreement between the United States government and various Sioux tribes, including the Lakota and Dakota. The treaty aimed to establish peace and define boundaries between the Sioux tribes and the US government. As part of the agreement, the Sioux agreed to move to designated reservations, where they would receive land and resources. This treaty marked a significant moment in the history of Native American relations with the US government and had long-lasting consequences for the Sioux tribes.

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  • 8. 

    ____________________ invented the steel plow in 1837.

    • Cyrus McCormick

    • John Deere

    • African Americans

    • Native Americans

    Correct Answer
    A. John Deere
    Explanation
    John Deere is the correct answer because he invented the steel plow in 1837. This invention revolutionized agriculture by allowing farmers to plow through tough soil more efficiently. The steel plow was able to cut through the prairie soil without getting stuck, making it easier for farmers to cultivate their fields. John Deere's invention greatly contributed to the development of the agricultural industry and had a significant impact on farming practices.

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  • 9. 

    The American cowboy drew many of his customs from ranchers in ___________

    • Spain

    • Canada

    • Mexico

    • Cuba

    Correct Answer
    A. Mexico
    Explanation
    The American cowboy drew many of his customs from ranchers in Mexico. Mexico has a long history of cattle ranching and horsemanship, which heavily influenced the development of cowboy culture in the United States. Mexican vaqueros, skilled horsemen and cattle herders, brought their techniques and traditions to the American Southwest, including roping, branding, and riding styles. The cowboy hat, lasso, and even certain aspects of cowboy cuisine can be traced back to Mexican ranching practices. This cultural exchange between Mexico and the United States played a significant role in shaping the iconic image of the American cowboy.

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  • 10. 

    By 1880, many settlers in Minnesota and Wisconsin were _______________________.

    • Californians

    • Nebraskans

    • Immigrants

    • African Americans

    Correct Answer
    A. Immigrants
    Explanation
    By 1880, many settlers in Minnesota and Wisconsin were immigrants. This suggests that a significant number of people from other countries had migrated to these states during that time period. These immigrants likely sought better economic opportunities, agricultural land, or a fresh start in a new country. The influx of immigrants would have contributed to the cultural diversity and growth of these regions, bringing with them their traditions, languages, and customs.

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  • 11. 

    The demand for _________________ in cities led to the growth of the cattle industry.

    • Bones

    • Leather

    • Poultry

    • Beef

    Correct Answer
    A. Beef
    Explanation
    The demand for beef in cities led to the growth of the cattle industry. As cities expanded and populations increased, there was a greater need for food, particularly meat. Beef became a popular choice among consumers, leading to an increased demand for cattle. This demand incentivized the growth of the cattle industry, as farmers and ranchers sought to meet the needs of urban markets.

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  • 12. 

    Women played little role in settling the West.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The statement "Women played little role in settling the West" is false. Women played a significant role in settling the West, although their contributions have often been overlooked or downplayed. Women were involved in various aspects of frontier life, including homesteading, ranching, farming, and entrepreneurship. They also played essential roles in establishing and maintaining communities, schools, and churches. Women's labor and resilience were crucial in building and shaping the American West, challenging the traditional narrative that portrays men as the sole pioneers of the frontier.

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  • 13. 

    General George Custer and his troops were routed at the __________

    • Battle of Little Big Horn

    • Battle of Wounded Knee

    • Massacre at Sand Creek

    • Battle of Fallen Timbers

    Correct Answer
    A. Battle of Little Big Horn
    Explanation
    General George Custer and his troops were routed at the Battle of Little Big Horn. This battle, also known as Custer's Last Stand, took place on June 25, 1876, in Montana Territory. Custer and his 7th Cavalry were defeated by a coalition of Native American tribes led by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. It was a significant victory for the Native Americans in their resistance against the U.S. government's attempts to control and confine them to reservations. The battle resulted in the death of Custer and his entire command, making it a notable event in American history.

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  • 14. 

    Two railroad lines met in ____________ to form the first transcontinental railroad.

    • California

    • Nebraska

    • Utah

    • Minesota

    Correct Answer
    A. Utah
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Utah because it is known that the first transcontinental railroad was completed in Utah. Utah was a crucial location where the Central Pacific Railroad from California and the Union Pacific Railroad from Nebraska met, connecting the East and West coasts of the United States. This meeting point in Utah marked a significant milestone in American history and revolutionized transportation and trade across the country.

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  • 15. 

    Inventions and improvements in farm technology.

    • Increase from production .... effort + time required to pro goods.

    • Railroads companies sold lands to farmers and to europeans

    • 160 Acres of land free If they were to cultivate it for 5 years.

    • Supported farmers by financial agr. ED + Research colleges.

    Correct Answer
    A. Increase from production .... effort + time required to pro goods.
    Explanation
    The given answer is correct because the passage mentions "Inventions and improvements in farm technology" which suggests that there has been an increase in production. This increase in production is likely due to the advancements in farm technology, which have made it easier and quicker to produce goods. The passage also mentions the support provided to farmers through financial agricultural education and research colleges, indicating that there has been a focus on improving farming methods and increasing productivity.

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  • 16. 

    With forestland on the Plains most settlers built their homes out of wood.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Most settlers on the Plains did not build their homes out of wood because there was a scarcity of trees in the region. Instead, they used other materials like sod, which was more readily available and provided better insulation against the harsh weather conditions on the Plains. Therefore, the statement is false.

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  • 17. 

    The homestead act and related laws passed in the 1870s.

    • Supported farmers by financial agr. ED + Research colleges.

    • 160 Acres of land free If they were to cultivate it for 5 years.

    • Railroads companies sold lands to farmers and to europeans

    • Increase from production .... effort + time required to pro goods.

    Correct Answer
    A. 160 Acres of land free If they were to cultivate it for 5 years.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that farmers were offered 160 acres of land for free if they agreed to cultivate it for 5 years. This was a provision of the homestead act and related laws passed in the 1870s. This policy aimed to support farmers by providing them with land and an opportunity to establish their own farms. By requiring them to cultivate the land for a certain period of time, it ensured that the land was being used productively and contributed to increased agricultural production.

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  • 18. 

    In 1889, settlers claimed some 2 million acres in less than a day in a free land giveaway in what is now Minnesota.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The given statement is false. In 1889, there was no free land giveaway in Minnesota where settlers claimed 2 million acres in less than a day.

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  • 19. 

    About 25% of all cowboys were ____________.

    • Asian

    • Native American

    • African American

    • Mexican

    Correct Answer
    A. African American
    Explanation
    Approximately 25% of all cowboys in history were African American. This fact highlights the diverse and multicultural nature of the cowboy profession, which is often associated with the American West. African Americans played a significant role in shaping the cowboy culture, despite the prevalent stereotypes that often depict cowboys as exclusively white. Their contributions and presence in the cowboy community challenge traditional narratives and emphasize the importance of recognizing the multicultural history of the American West.

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  • 20. 

    Land Grants given to the railroads

    • Supported farmers by financial agr. ED + Research colleges.

    • Railroads companies sold lands to farmers and to europeans

    • 160 Acres of land free If they were to cultivate it for 5 years.

    • Increase from production .... effort + time required to pro goods.

    Correct Answer
    A. Railroads companies sold lands to farmers and to europeans
    Explanation
    Railroad companies sold lands to farmers and Europeans. This allowed farmers to acquire land that they could cultivate for a period of five years in order to receive 160 acres of land for free. This initiative supported farmers by providing them with the opportunity to own land and engage in agricultural activities. Additionally, the sale of lands to Europeans potentially attracted more settlers to the area, contributing to the growth and development of the region. This increase in agricultural production required effort and time, but ultimately led to the production of goods.

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  • 21. 

    ______________________ was NOT a factor in ending the open range era. 

    • Overgrazing of land

    • Rise of the railroads

    • Extended bad weather

    • The invention of barbed wire

    Correct Answer
    A. Rise of the railroads
    Explanation
    The rise of the railroads was not a factor in ending the open range era. The open range era came to an end primarily due to overgrazing of land, extended bad weather, and the invention of barbed wire. The railroads, on the other hand, played a significant role in the expansion of the cattle industry by providing a means of transporting cattle to markets more efficiently.

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  • 22. 

    The Morrill land grant Acts and Hatch Act.

    • Railroads companies sold lands to farmers and to europeans

    • 160 Acres of land free If they were to cultivate it for 5 years.

    • Supported farmers by financial agr. ED + Research colleges.

    • Increase from production .... effort + time required to pro goods.

    Correct Answer
    A. Supported farmers by financial agr. ED + Research colleges.
    Explanation
    The Morrill Land Grant Acts and Hatch Act were legislation that provided support to farmers by establishing agricultural education and research colleges. These acts aimed to improve farming practices and increase agricultural productivity. By providing financial assistance and resources for farmers to access education and research, the government aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of farmers, ultimately leading to increased production. This support was crucial in helping farmers adapt to changing agricultural practices and technologies, reducing the effort and time required to produce goods.

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  • Current Version
  • Mar 21, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Oct 06, 2010
    Quiz Created by
    Frank_01
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