American Revolution Test Practice
- 1.
Before 1763, The American colonies had been
- A.
Ruled with a firm hand by Parliament.
- B.
Left mostly alone to govern themselves.
- C.
Heavily taxed by British government
- D.
Denied religious freedom by the king.
Correct Answer
B. Left mostly alone to govern themselves.Explanation
The correct answer is "Left mostly alone to govern themselves." This is because before 1763, the American colonies had a significant degree of self-governance. The British government allowed the colonies to have their own legislatures and make their own laws. The colonies were largely left to manage their own internal affairs and had a considerable amount of autonomy in their governance.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which was not a major effect of the French and Indian War?
- A.
Reduced colonists' need for protection against the French in Canada.
- B.
Opened the Ohio Valley to settlement by removing Native Americans.
- C.
Led Parliament to tax the colonies to help pay off Britain's war debt.
- D.
Greatly expanded Britain's empire in North America.
Correct Answer
A. Reduced colonists' need for protection against the French in Canada.Explanation
The French and Indian War actually increased the colonists' need for protection against the French in Canada. The war resulted in the removal of the French threat from North America, which had previously posed a significant danger to the American colonies. This answer is incorrect because it contradicts the historical outcome of the war.Rate this question:
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- 3.
While the proclamation of 1763 was designed to promote peace, instead it
- A.
Triggered wars between Indian groups.
- B.
Caused colonists to fear the continual British restrictions to their rights.
- C.
Sparked a boycott of British goods.
- D.
Led riots into colonial cities.
Correct Answer
B. Caused colonists to fear the continual British restrictions to their rights.Explanation
The correct answer is "Caused colonists to fear the continual British restrictions to their rights." The Proclamation of 1763 was issued by the British government to prevent further conflicts with Native American tribes by restricting colonial settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains. However, many colonists saw this as an infringement on their rights to expand and settle in new territories. They feared that the British government would continue to impose restrictions on their freedoms and limit their ability to govern themselves. This fear of ongoing British control and restriction ultimately contributed to the growing tensions that led to the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What upset American colonists most about the Stamp Act?
- A.
Colonists did not want to pay taxes to keep British troops in the colonies.
- B.
The Stamp Act raised the price of paper goods sold in the colonies.
- C.
Colonies believed Parliament had no right to tax the colonies
- D.
Parliament had not warned the colonies about the new stamp act in advance.
Correct Answer
C. Colonies believed Parliament had no right to tax the coloniesExplanation
The American colonists were most upset about the Stamp Act because they believed that Parliament had no right to tax the colonies. They felt that as British subjects, they should only be taxed by their own colonial governments, not by a distant and unrepresentative body like Parliament. This belief in "no taxation without representation" was a key principle that fueled their resistance to British rule and eventually led to the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The Townshend Act and the Tea Act were
- A.
Opposed as "taxation without representation" by most colonists.
- B.
Approved by most Patriots, but opposed by most Loyalists.
- C.
Failures because they raised the price of goods to high for the colonists to buy.
- D.
Accepted and obeyed by all but a few hotheads in Boston
Correct Answer
A. Opposed as "taxation without representation" by most colonists.Explanation
The Townshend Act and the Tea Act were opposed as "taxation without representation" by most colonists because these acts imposed taxes on goods imported into the colonies without giving the colonists a voice in the British government. This phrase became a rallying cry for the colonists as they believed it was unfair to be taxed by a government in which they had no representation. The opposition to these acts eventually led to widespread protests and boycotts, contributing to the growing tensions between the American colonies and Britain, ultimately leading to the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The Boston Massacre was a
- A.
Smallpox epidemic that killed a large number of Native Americans.
- B.
Noisy protests against the Stamp Act by the Sons of Liberty in Boston.
- C.
Fierce battle that took place in Boston during the French and Indian War.
- D.
Deadly riot between colonists and British troops stationed in Boston.
Correct Answer
D. Deadly riot between colonists and British troops stationed in Boston.Explanation
The correct answer is a deadly riot between colonists and British troops stationed in Boston. This is because the Boston Massacre refers to the event that occurred on March 5, 1770, where a confrontation between a mob of colonists and British soldiers led to the soldiers firing into the crowd, resulting in the death of five colonists. This event was a significant turning point in the lead up to the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The Intolerable Acts (two answers are correct)
- A.
Forced the colonies to give in to Britain.
- B.
Closed Boston harbor and restricted colonial government.
- C.
Divided the colonies against each other.
- D.
Turned the colonies against Boston
Correct Answer
B. Closed Boston harbor and restricted colonial government.Explanation
The correct answer is "Closed Boston harbor and restricted colonial government." The Intolerable Acts, also known as the Coercive Acts, were a series of laws passed by the British Parliament in response to the Boston Tea Party. One of the acts included the closure of the Boston harbor, which severely impacted the economy of the city and the surrounding colonies. Additionally, the acts restricted the colonial government by giving more power to the royal governor and limiting town meetings. These acts were seen as oppressive and further fueled the colonial resentment towards British rule.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Who did John Adams nominate to be the Commander-in-Cheif of the Continental Army?
- A.
Thomas Jefferson
- B.
King George the 3rd
- C.
George Washington
- D.
Benjamin Franklin
Correct Answer
C. George WashingtonExplanation
John Adams nominated George Washington to be the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. Washington was a respected military leader and had experience leading troops during the French and Indian War. His leadership skills and military expertise made him a suitable candidate for the position. Additionally, Washington's reputation as a fair and just leader earned him the trust and support of the Continental Congress and the American people.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Why did General Putnam (or General Prescott) order, "Don't Fire until you see the whites of their eyes"?
- A.
He knew the British soldiers often wore glasses.
- B.
He wanted to make sure each shot was as effective as possible.
- C.
He wanted the patriots to pay for their treason.
- D.
He knew that the Redcoats were all White soldiers.
Correct Answer
B. He wanted to make sure each shot was as effective as possible.Explanation
General Putnam (or General Prescott) ordered, "Don't Fire until you see the whites of their eyes" to ensure that each shot was as effective as possible. By waiting until the enemy was close enough to clearly see their eyes, the soldiers could maximize the accuracy and impact of their shots. This tactic helped conserve ammunition and increase the likelihood of hitting their targets, giving the patriots a strategic advantage in battle.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Where did the Continental Congress meet on May 10, 1775?
- A.
Boston
- B.
Philadelphia
- C.
New York
- D.
Washington D.C.
Correct Answer
B. PhiladelphiaExplanation
The Continental Congress met in Philadelphia on May 10, 1775. Philadelphia was a central location and served as the meeting place for the Congress throughout the Revolutionary War. The city was chosen for its accessibility and its significance as a hub of political and intellectual activity. Many important decisions and discussions took place in Philadelphia during this time, including the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The petition sent by Congress to ask King George to end their quarrel was called the ?
- A.
Olive Branch Petition
- B.
Declaration of Independence
- C.
Bill of Rights
- D.
King's Act
Correct Answer
A. Olive Branch PetitionExplanation
The petition sent by Congress to ask King George to end their quarrel was called the Olive Branch Petition. This petition was a final attempt by the colonists to avoid a full-scale war with Britain and restore harmony between the two sides. It expressed loyalty to the king and a desire for peaceful resolution, but unfortunately, it was rejected by King George III, leading to the escalation of the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The pamphlet that helped persuade Colonists that independence was necessary, and a key to the future was called?
- A.
The Quibbler
- B.
Tar and Feathers
- C.
The Tyranny of King George
- D.
Common Sense
Correct Answer
D. Common SenseExplanation
"Common Sense" is the correct answer because it was a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1776. This pamphlet played a significant role in convincing the American colonists that independence from Britain was not only necessary but also crucial for their future. Paine's persuasive arguments and straightforward language helped to awaken a sense of nationalism and desire for self-governance among the colonists, ultimately contributing to the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Who wrote Common Sense in 1776?
- A.
John Adams
- B.
Thomas Jefferson
- C.
Thomas Paine
- D.
George Washington
Correct Answer
C. Thomas PaineExplanation
Thomas Paine wrote Common Sense in 1776. Common Sense was a pamphlet that played a significant role in inspiring the American colonists to declare independence from Britain. Paine's persuasive arguments and straightforward language made the case for self-governance and rallied public support for the revolutionary cause. His work had a profound impact on the American Revolution and the formation of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The gist of Common Sense is that if a government denies a people basic rights then,
- A.
Fire will rain from the sky
- B.
The people have the right to form new government
- C.
The government should stay the same
- D.
The people should leave
Correct Answer
B. The people have the right to form new governmentExplanation
The correct answer is "The people have the right to form a new government." This is because common sense dictates that if a government denies its people basic rights, it is the responsibility of the people to take action and establish a new government that will respect and protect their rights. This answer aligns with the principles of democracy and the idea that the power ultimately lies with the people.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Who drafted the Declaration of Independence?
- A.
Thomas Jefferson
- B.
George Washington
- C.
John Adams
- D.
Benjamin Franklin
Correct Answer
A. Thomas JeffersonExplanation
Thomas Jefferson is the correct answer because he was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. He was chosen by the Continental Congress to draft the document, which outlined the colonies' grievances against British rule and declared their independence. Jefferson's eloquent writing and strong beliefs in liberty and individual rights made him the ideal candidate for this important task. His draft was then reviewed and edited by a committee before being approved and signed by the delegates of the Continental Congress.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What was the Loyalist's main argument for remaining loyal?
- A.
The King's authority came from God
- B.
The Patriots had no money to start a new country
- C.
The Indians would kill them without King George's protection
- D.
They loved the King
Correct Answer
C. The Indians would kill them without King George's protectionExplanation
The Loyalists argued that without the protection of King George, they would be vulnerable to attacks from the Indians. This suggests that they believed in the importance of the British monarchy in providing security and stability.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Where did the British troops and Loyalists go when they abandoned Boston?
- A.
Canada
- B.
South Carolina
- C.
England
- D.
New York
Correct Answer
B. South CarolinaExplanation
During the American Revolutionary War, when the British troops and Loyalists abandoned Boston, they relocated to various places. However, South Carolina was one of the destinations where they went. This decision was influenced by the fact that South Carolina had a significant Loyalist population and was seen as a stronghold for British support. Additionally, the British hoped to gain control over the southern colonies by establishing a presence in South Carolina. Therefore, South Carolina became a refuge and base for the British troops and Loyalists after their departure from Boston.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What best describes the purpose of writing the Declaration of Independence?
- A.
To insult the King and make him feel bad
- B.
To explain why the colonies should separate from Britain
- C.
To begin a boycott
- D.
To say no one has more authority than God
Correct Answer
B. To explain why the colonies should separate from BritainExplanation
The purpose of writing the Declaration of Independence was to explain why the colonies should separate from Britain. This document was drafted to outline the grievances and reasons for the colonists' desire for independence from British rule. It served as a formal declaration of their intention to break away from Britain and establish their own independent nation.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What are the three rights explicitly mentioned in the Declaration of Independence?
- A.
Love, Liberty and Freedom
- B.
Right to education, justice, and happiness.
- C.
Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
- D.
Justice, Representation and Liberty
Correct Answer
C. Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of HappinessExplanation
The three rights explicitly mentioned in the Declaration of Independence are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This phrase is derived from the belief that individuals have the inherent right to live, be free from oppression, and pursue their own happiness and well-being. These rights are considered fundamental and are often seen as the foundation of democratic societies.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What type of government was the Declaration of Independence and attempt to start?
- A.
Monarchy
- B.
Anarchy
- C.
Kleptocracy
- D.
Democracy
Correct Answer
D. DemocracyExplanation
The Declaration of Independence was an attempt to start a democracy. This is evident from the principles and ideals stated in the document, such as the belief in the equality of all individuals and the idea that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed. The Declaration aimed to establish a government that would be accountable to the people and protect their rights and freedoms.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Declaration of Independence was written to explain
- A.
Why the colonists thought "taxation without representation" was unfair.
- B.
What Britain needed to do to win back the loyalty of the colonies.
- C.
Why it was time for the colonies to separate from Great Britain
- D.
What other nations could do to help the colonies win their freedom.
Correct Answer
C. Why it was time for the colonies to separate from Great BritainExplanation
The Declaration of Independence was written to explain why it was time for the colonies to separate from Great Britain. This document outlined the grievances of the colonists and their belief that they had the right to establish their own independent government. It detailed the abuses and injustices committed by the British government and argued that the colonies had the right to self-governance and freedom from British rule. By declaring independence, the colonists sought to assert their rights and establish a new nation based on principles of liberty and self-determination.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The Declaration of Independence states that all people are born with certain rights that include the
- A.
Right to elect leaders who represent the people.
- B.
Rights to speak freely and to worship in peace.
- C.
Right to feel safe and secure in one's home.
- D.
Right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness
Correct Answer
D. Right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happinessExplanation
The correct answer is "Right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." This answer is supported by the language used in the Declaration of Independence, which states that all people are born with certain unalienable rights, including the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This phrase is often cited as a fundamental principle of American democracy and is considered one of the core values upon which the country was founded.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The purpose of the Olive Branch Petition was to persuade
- A.
British troops to leave Boston
- B.
Parliament to repeal the stamp act
- C.
King George to make peace with the colonies
- D.
Volunteers to join the Continental Army
Correct Answer
C. King George to make peace with the coloniesExplanation
The Olive Branch Petition was a final attempt by the American colonists to avoid a full-scale war with Britain. It was sent to King George III in the hopes of resolving the conflicts peacefully and restoring harmony between the colonies and the British government. The petition expressed the colonists' loyalty to the king and their desire for a peaceful resolution. However, King George III rejected the petition and instead declared the colonies to be in a state of rebellion. This ultimately led to the American Revolutionary War.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The Magna Carta, Which was signed by King John in 1215, made it clear that
- A.
Only Parliament had the power to impose taxes.
- B.
The people had the right to petition the government
- C.
Even the King of England must Obey law
- D.
The king did not have to share power with anyone
Correct Answer
C. Even the King of England must Obey lawExplanation
The Magna Carta, signed in 1215 by King John, established the principle that even the King of England must obey the law. This document limited the absolute power of the king and introduced the idea that the ruler is subject to the same laws as the rest of the population. It laid the foundation for the rule of law and the idea of constitutional monarchy, where the monarch's authority is constrained by a legal framework. The Magna Carta marked a significant shift in power dynamics and set the stage for the development of democratic principles and individual rights.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The English Bill of rights was Important to the colonists because it
- A.
Spelled out the rights they had as english citizens
- B.
Gave them the right to elect members of the parliament
- C.
Defined crimes and punishments for the colonists
- D.
Endend the king's power to appoint colonial governors.
Correct Answer
A. Spelled out the rights they had as english citizensExplanation
The English Bill of Rights was important to the colonists because it spelled out the rights they had as English citizens. This document provided a clear and concise list of the fundamental rights and liberties that the colonists were entitled to. It served as a safeguard against the potential abuse of power by the government and ensured that their rights were protected. The English Bill of Rights became a model for future documents, such as the United States Bill of Rights, which further solidified the importance of individual rights and freedoms in democratic societies.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The right to petition the English Bill of Rights gave citizens the right to
- A.
Choose how they should be punished for minor crimes
- B.
Ask the government to do something or make a change
- C.
Educate their children in church schools or at home
- D.
Organize fairs with contests and entertainments.
Correct Answer
B. Ask the government to do something or make a changeExplanation
The right to petition in the English Bill of Rights refers to the ability of citizens to make requests or demands to the government for action or change. This right allows individuals to express their concerns, grievances, or suggestions to the government, influencing the decision-making process and holding the government accountable. It is a fundamental aspect of a democratic society, ensuring that the government remains responsive to the needs and demands of its citizens.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The 13 colonies occupied approximately what percentage of the continental Us in 1763?
- A.
79%
- B.
50%
- C.
33%
- D.
10%
Correct Answer
D. 10%Explanation
In 1763, the 13 colonies occupied approximately 10% of the continental US. This means that the colonies, which were located along the eastern coast of North America, only accounted for a small portion of the entire landmass of the United States at that time. The majority of the continental US was still unexplored or inhabited by Native American tribes, with the western territories yet to be settled by European colonizers.Rate this question:
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