American History Test Part 1 - America Before Columbus

Mesoamerica refers to the region that encompasses central and southern Mexico as well as Central America. This term is used to describe the cultural and historical similarities shared by the ancient civilizations that inhabited this area, such as the Aztecs, Mayans, and Olmecs. The term "Mesoamerica" is commonly used by archaeologists and historians to study and understand the interconnectedness of these civilizations and their contributions to the development of complex societies in the Americas.

The correct answer is Aztec because the given information describes a group of Mesoamerican settlers who were originally known as the "Mexica" and were a subgroup of the chichimec. They built the city of Tenochtitlan, which was the capital of the Aztec Empire. Therefore, the correct answer is Aztec.

Tribute refers to a payment or offering made by a city to a dominant empire. It is a form of acknowledgement and submission to the empire's authority. The payment or offering could be in the form of money, goods, or services, and it symbolizes the city's recognition of the empire's power and their willingness to maintain a peaceful relationship. Tribute was often imposed by conquering empires as a means of asserting control and extracting resources from the conquered territories.

The correct answer is the Iroquois Confederacy. The Iroquois Confederacy refers to a pact made by the Seneca, Cayuga, Onogondaga, Oneida, and Mohawks Native American tribes. This confederacy was formed for mutual defense and cooperation, creating a powerful alliance that played a significant role in the politics and conflicts of North America during the colonial period.

Beringia is the correct answer because it refers to the bridge or piece of land that connected North America with modern-day Russia. This land bridge existed during the last ice age when sea levels were much lower, allowing humans and animals to migrate between the two continents. Beringia played a crucial role in the peopling of the Americas, as it provided a pathway for early humans to cross from Asia into North America.

Cahokia is one of the largest cities built by the Mississippians. The Mississippians were a Native American civilization that thrived in the Mississippi River Valley and surrounding areas from approximately 800 to 1500 AD. Cahokia, located near present-day St. Louis, Missouri, was the largest and most influential city of the Mississippians. It had a population of around 10,000-20,000 people and featured large earthen mounds, plazas, and a sophisticated social and political structure. The city served as a major center for trade, religious ceremonies, and cultural exchange, making it a significant archaeological site and a testament to the advanced civilization of the Mississippians.

The Iroquois Confederacy was formed by five Native American tribes: the Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, and Mohawks. These tribes came together to create a unified political and military alliance in the 16th century. The confederacy was based on a constitution known as the Great Law of Peace, which provided a framework for governance and conflict resolution among the member tribes. The confederacy played a significant role in the history of North America, particularly in the colonial period, as it had a strong influence on the European settlers and their interactions with Native American tribes.

Kivas are rooms used for religious practices in Puebloan culture. These underground chambers are typically found in southwestern United States and are used for ceremonies, rituals, and meetings. Kivas are considered sacred spaces and are often used by Native American tribes for spiritual gatherings and community events. They are characterized by their round or rectangular shape, underground location, and unique architectural features. Kivas play an important role in preserving and practicing religious traditions and are an integral part of Native American culture.

The Maya were a group of Mesoamerican settlers who resided in the Yucatan Peninsula and were famous for their engineering and science. They built impressive cities and developed advanced agricultural techniques, such as terracing and irrigation. The Maya also had a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and mathematics, creating a highly accurate calendar system and making significant advancements in architecture and writing. Their achievements in these fields, along with their rich cultural and artistic traditions, have made them renowned throughout history.

Tenochtitlan was built by the Aztec civilization. It was the capital city of the Aztec Empire and was located in present-day Mexico City. The Aztecs constructed this city on an island in the middle of Lake Texcoco and connected it to the mainland through a series of causeways. Tenochtitlan was a highly advanced and sophisticated city, known for its impressive architecture, intricate canal system, and bustling markets. It was a major political, economic, and cultural center of the Aztec civilization until its fall in 1521.

The Spanish word "pueblos" translates to "village" in English. This word is used to refer to a small community or settlement in Spanish-speaking countries. It is commonly used to describe a rural area with a close-knit community and traditional way of life.

During the Agricultural Revolution, settlers learned how to plant and raise crops. This marked a significant shift in human history as it allowed for a more stable and reliable food supply. Prior to this revolution, humans relied on hunting and gathering for sustenance. The ability to cultivate crops not only provided a more consistent food source but also led to the development of permanent settlements and the growth of civilizations. The Agricultural Revolution laid the foundation for the development of agriculture as we know it today.

The Yucatan Peninsula is the correct answer because it is a region in Mesoamerica where a group of settlers resided. These settlers were known for their advancements in engineering and science, which made them famous. The Yucatan Peninsula is also home to various ancient Mayan cities, such as Chichen Itza and Tulum, which further highlight the engineering and scientific achievements of the Mesoamerican settlers in this area.