Ancient Cultures Honors Unit 1 Test Spring 2009
Mr. Sheridan Unit 1 Ancient Cultures Honors Spring 2009 Test. Review for Final! LSHS
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Prehistoric refers to any time in the past before
- A.
The Neolithic Age
- B.
The invention of writing
- C.
The establishment of civilizations
- D.
The appearance of Homo sapiens
Correct Answer
B. The invention of writingExplanation
Prehistoric refers to any time in the past before the invention of writing. This means that it encompasses the time period before humans developed a system of recorded communication through written symbols or language. During this prehistoric period, information and knowledge were likely passed down through oral traditions and visual representations such as cave paintings. The invention of writing marked a significant milestone in human history, allowing for the preservation and transmission of information across generations.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The natural boundaries most responsible for identifying the region of Mesopotamia were
- A.
Explanation
The natural boundaries most responsible for identifying the region of Mesopotamia were the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. These rivers provided the necessary water resources for agriculture and facilitated trade and transportation in the region. The fertile land between the rivers, known as the "land between the rivers" or Mesopotamia in Greek, was ideal for settlement and the development of early civilizations. The rivers also served as natural barriers, protecting the region from invasions and providing a sense of security to its inhabitants.Rate this question:
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- 3.
One of the main things Hammurabi's Code did was to
- A.
Treat all citizens equally
- B.
Establish a social class system
- C.
Invoke the principles of mercy and compassion
- D.
Establish a uniform set of laws throughout the empire
Correct Answer
D. Establish a uniform set of laws throughout the empireExplanation
Hammurabi's Code was a set of laws that were established in ancient Babylon by King Hammurabi. One of the main purposes of this code was to establish a uniform set of laws throughout the empire. This meant that everyone in the empire, regardless of their social status or position, would be subject to the same laws and regulations. This helped to create a sense of order and fairness within the society, as everyone was held accountable to the same standards. By having a uniform set of laws, it also ensured that justice was administered consistently and impartially.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The first empire was created by
- A.
Sargon
- B.
Hammurabi
- C.
Darius
- D.
Moses
Correct Answer
A. SargonExplanation
Sargon is considered to be the creator of the first empire. He was the ruler of Akkad and is known for his military conquests and establishment of a centralized government. Sargon's empire, known as the Akkadian Empire, emerged around 2334 BCE and encompassed much of Mesopotamia. He is credited with laying the foundation for future empires in the region and his reign marked a significant shift in political organization and power dynamics.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The Phonecians were famous sailors and traders, often trading the very valuable commodity
- A.
Gold
- B.
Silver
- C.
Cloth
- D.
Dye
Correct Answer
D. DyeExplanation
The Phoenicians were known for their expertise in sailing and trading. They were renowned for their trade routes and their ability to acquire and exchange valuable commodities. Among these commodities, dye was highly sought after and traded by the Phoenicians. They were skilled in extracting and producing vibrant dyes from various sources, such as plants and mollusks. The Phoenicians' proficiency in dye trading contributed to their economic prosperity and established their reputation as successful traders in the ancient world.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The Assyrians were famous for their ability to knock down walls, thanks primarily to a group of specialists who dug under the walls known as
- A.
Sappers
- B.
Drivers
- C.
Buroughers
- D.
Grubbers
Correct Answer
A. SappersExplanation
The correct answer is sappers. The Assyrians were known for their expertise in warfare and their ability to conquer fortified cities. They had a group of specialists called sappers who were responsible for digging tunnels under the walls of the city in order to weaken and eventually collapse them. This tactic was highly effective and played a significant role in the Assyrians' success in warfare.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Egypt became famous for their mummies, who were wrapped in cloth after they died and were given an
- A.
Funeral
- B.
Burial
- C.
Proper send off
- D.
Autopsy
Correct Answer
D. Autopsy -
- 8.
In the Torah, Cyrus is called great because he
- A.
Freed the Jews from slavery
- B.
Built the temple
- C.
Allowed the Jews to practice their religion freely
- D.
Allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem
Correct Answer
D. Allowed the Jews to return to JerusalemExplanation
Cyrus is called great in the Torah because he allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem. This implies that the Jews were previously exiled or displaced from their homeland, and Cyrus's decision to let them return was seen as a significant act of kindness and liberation. By allowing the Jews to go back to Jerusalem, Cyrus showed support for their cultural and religious identity, highlighting his tolerance and benevolence towards the Jewish people.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Ancient India changed when the Aryans came and established the caste system based primarily on
- A.
Occupation
- B.
Skin color
- C.
Heredity
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Skin colorExplanation
The Aryans brought about a significant change in ancient India by establishing the caste system. This social structure was primarily based on heredity, where individuals were born into a specific caste and remained in it for life. However, the given answer "skin color" is incorrect. While the caste system did involve discrimination based on various factors, including occupation and birth, skin color was not the primary determinant.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The sacred text of Hinduism, contained within the Vedas, is called the
- A.
Koran
- B.
Brahma
- C.
Arc of the Covenant
- D.
Upanishads
Correct Answer
D. UpanishadsExplanation
The Upanishads are considered the sacred texts of Hinduism, not the Koran, Brahma, or Arc of the Covenant. The Upanishads are a collection of philosophical and mystical teachings that explore the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth. They are considered to be the culmination of the Vedas, the ancient scriptures of Hinduism, and are highly revered by Hindus as a source of spiritual wisdom and guidance.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The primary reason why Buddhism spread throughout Asia to become the dominant religion in the region and Hinduism did not was because of
- A.
The caste system
- B.
Silk Road
- C.
Buddhist temples
- D.
The Untouchables
Correct Answer
C. Buddhist templesExplanation
Buddhist temples played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism throughout Asia. These temples served as centers of worship, education, and community gathering, attracting people from various social backgrounds. The teachings and practices of Buddhism, along with the peaceful and inclusive nature of the religion, appealed to many individuals seeking spiritual guidance and a way to escape the rigid social hierarchy imposed by the caste system. In contrast, Hinduism, with its complex caste system and hierarchical structure, did not have a centralized institution like Buddhist temples that could actively promote and spread the religion.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Confucius was known as
- A.
The teacher of all
- B.
The master teacher
- C.
The first teacher
- D.
The teacher of the way
Correct Answer
C. The first teacherExplanation
Confucius was known as "the first teacher" because he is considered one of the earliest and most influential educators in Chinese history. He developed a philosophy that emphasized the importance of education and moral values in society. Confucius believed in the power of learning and teaching, and his teachings had a profound impact on Chinese education for centuries. He is often referred to as the first teacher because of his significant contributions to the field of education and his role in shaping the educational system in ancient China.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The large majority of Chinese geography is
- A.
Mountains and deserts
- B.
Farmland
- C.
Forest
- D.
Coastland
Correct Answer
A. Mountains and desertsExplanation
The correct answer is mountains and deserts. China is known for its diverse geography, with a significant portion of its landmass consisting of mountains and deserts. The country is home to several mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, Tian Shan, and Kunlun Mountains. The Gobi Desert and the Taklamakan Desert are two of the largest deserts in China. These geographical features have influenced the climate, culture, and economic activities in different regions of the country.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The highest HIndu caste members in India after the arrival of the Aryans were the
- A.
Shudras (workers)
- B.
Vaisayas (merchants, herders)
- C.
Kshatriya (warriors, rulers)
- D.
Brahmans (priests, scholars)
Correct Answer
D. Brahmans (priests, scholars)Explanation
The correct answer is Brahmans (priests, scholars). After the arrival of the Aryans in India, the highest Hindu caste members were the Brahmans. They held positions as priests and scholars in society. They were responsible for performing religious rituals, studying and interpreting religious texts, and providing guidance and knowledge to the community. The Brahman caste was highly respected and considered to be the most spiritually and intellectually advanced caste in the social hierarchy.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The Indian caste system
- A.
Differed little from other systems of inequality in the ancient world
- B.
Closely resembled the Persian-Assyrian class structures
- C.
Was extremely complex and stratified; a person would almost never change caste
- D.
Integrated non-Aryans into ruling castes as a way of political control
Correct Answer
C. Was extremely complex and stratified; a person would almost never change casteExplanation
The correct answer is that the Indian caste system was extremely complex and stratified, and a person would almost never change their caste. This suggests that the caste system in ancient India was rigid and hierarchical, with little social mobility. It implies that individuals were born into a specific caste and remained in that caste for their entire lives, with limited opportunities for upward mobility or changing their social status. This highlights the entrenched nature of the caste system and the lack of social mobility within it.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A major difference between Buddhism and Hinduism was that
- A.
Buddhism denied the need for caste, rite, and sacrifice to achieve nirvana
- B.
Hinduism was monotheistic and Buddhism was polytheistic
- C.
Buddhism encouraged its followers to renounce the political world
- D.
Hinduism taught respect for all living things and prohibited killing
Correct Answer
A. Buddhism denied the need for caste, rite, and sacrifice to achieve nirvanaExplanation
Buddhism denied the need for caste, rite, and sacrifice to achieve nirvana. This means that in Buddhism, one's social status or caste, religious rituals, and sacrifices were not considered necessary for attaining enlightenment or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. In Hinduism, on the other hand, these factors played a significant role in religious practices and the pursuit of spiritual goals. By rejecting the importance of caste, rite, and sacrifice, Buddhism emphasized the equality of all individuals and focused on personal spiritual development rather than external rituals.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Buddhism lost its appeal in India partly because
- A.
Hinduism showed its adaptability by emphasizing its mystical side, thus retaining the loyalties of many Indians
- B.
Buddhism was outlawed
- C.
Hinduism renounced the caste system
- D.
Buddhists were being persecuted
Correct Answer
A. Hinduism showed its adaptability by emphasizing its mystical side, thus retaining the loyalties of many IndiansExplanation
A is the only answer given on the test but is also correct. B,C,D are made up for the quiz.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Over time in classical India, castes
- A.
Were replaced by simpler social groups
- B.
Died out as Buddhism spread throughout India
- C.
Intensified and began to differ from region to region
- D.
Removed restrictions on gender
Correct Answer
C. Intensified and began to differ from region to regionExplanation
As time passed in classical India, the caste system became more intense and started to vary from one region to another. This implies that the social hierarchy became stricter and more rigid, leading to increased divisions and distinctions among different social groups. The caste system, instead of being simplified or replaced by simpler social groups, became more complex and diverse across different regions of India. There is no mention of Buddhism or the removal of gender restrictions in the given information, so these options can be ruled out.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Confucianism and Daoism
- A.
Were officially sanctioned doctrines of the Shang and Zhou emperors
- B.
Emphasized the needs of the individual over the state
- C.
Had little influence upon China and Chinese society until the Han empire in 200 BCE
- D.
Originated as responses to societal problems during times of disruption
Correct Answer
D. Originated as responses to societal problems during times of disruptionExplanation
Confucianism and Daoism originated as responses to societal problems during times of disruption. During the Shang and Zhou empires, these doctrines were officially sanctioned by the emperors. However, they emphasized the needs of the individual over the state, which was a departure from the traditional emphasis on the state's authority. Despite being officially sanctioned, they had little influence on China and Chinese society until the Han empire in 200 BCE. This suggests that their emergence was a result of societal issues and a desire for alternative philosophies during times of turmoil and change.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Religion in China differed from other classical civilizations in that
- A.
Their secular emphasis and lack of identifiable gods
- B.
They emphasized correct rituals and sacrifice
- C.
The concentrated on the need for god's saving grace
- D.
They supported a relative legal and social equality for women
Correct Answer
A. Their secular emphasis and lack of identifiable godsExplanation
Religion in China differed from other classical civilizations because it had a secular emphasis and lacked identifiable gods. Unlike other civilizations that placed a strong emphasis on religious rituals and sacrifice, Chinese religious practices focused more on ethical and moral teachings rather than worshiping specific deities. This secular approach to religion set China apart from other classical civilizations and contributed to the development of unique philosophical and ethical systems such as Confucianism and Taoism.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Peasants in classical China had little chance for social mobility and improved working conditions because
- A.
The tax burden from the government kept them in a subservient position
- B.
The aristocracy controlled the land and dictated their treatment of the peasants, who were tenant farmers
- C.
The land that the peasants did own was of poor quality and not large enough to create a surplus
- D.
The established social class system in China was rigid and did not allow for easy upward mobility
Correct Answer
B. The aristocracy controlled the land and dictated their treatment of the peasants, who were tenant farmersExplanation
The correct answer is that the aristocracy controlled the land and dictated their treatment of the peasants, who were tenant farmers. This means that the peasants were dependent on the aristocracy for land and resources, and they had no control over their own working conditions or social status. The power dynamics between the aristocracy and the peasants prevented any upward mobility or improvement in their working conditions.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The people who came to ancient India from the Steppes region of Eastern Europe were known as the Aryans, who quickly came into conflict with the native Indians known as the
- A.
Guptas
- B.
Varnas
- C.
Dravidians
- D.
Harappans
Correct Answer
C. DravidiansExplanation
The Dravidians were the native Indians who came into conflict with the Aryans, who migrated from the Steppes region of Eastern Europe to ancient India. The term "Aryans" refers to the group of people who settled in India and brought with them their Indo-European language and culture. The conflict between the Aryans and the Dravidians is believed to have resulted in the subjugation of the Dravidians and the establishment of the caste system in ancient India. The Guptas, Varnas, and Harappans are not relevant to this particular historical context.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The temple built by Solomon for the Jews in 962 B.C. was said to hold both the Torah and the Ten Commandments in the
- A.
Alter
- B.
Arc of the Torah
- C.
Arc of the Prophets
- D.
Arc of the Covenant
Correct Answer
D. Arc of the CovenantExplanation
The correct answer is Arc of the Covenant. The temple built by Solomon for the Jews in 962 B.C. was believed to house the Arc of the Covenant, which was a sacred chest containing the tablets of the Ten Commandments given to Moses by God. The Arc of the Covenant was considered a symbol of God's presence and was kept in the innermost part of the temple, known as the Holy of Holies. The Torah, which is the Jewish holy scripture, was also likely kept in the temple, but it was not specifically mentioned in relation to the Arc of the Covenant.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The Jews were said to be a homeless people after numerous military defeats, yet maintained their religion based upon the ideology that they were
- A.
Children of God
- B.
The chosen people
- C.
Israelites
- D.
Descendants of God
Correct Answer
B. The chosen peopleExplanation
The Jews believed that they were the chosen people, meaning that they were selected by God for a special purpose or relationship. This belief was deeply rooted in their religious ideology and played a significant role in their identity and sense of purpose. Despite facing numerous military defeats and being displaced from their homeland, they held onto their religion and maintained their faith in their chosen status. This belief also helped to sustain their community and provided them with a sense of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The Persians created a large empire that was said to assimilate many cultures, which could be seen most clearly in
- A.
Trade with non-Persian empires outside of the Persian Empire
- B.
Trade with non-Persian peoples within the Persian Empire
- C.
The use of non-Persians as top government officials and even occasionally as kings
- D.
The division of Persia itself into 100 Satrapies or provinces that maintained autonomy from the central government
Correct Answer
A. Trade with non-Persian empires outside of the Persian EmpireExplanation
The correct answer is trade with non-Persian empires outside of the Persian Empire. This is because the statement mentions that the Persians assimilated many cultures, and one of the ways this can be seen is through their trade with non-Persian empires outside of their own empire. This suggests that the Persians were engaging in commercial exchanges and interactions with other empires, which would have allowed for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The Egyptians used the Nile for transport of goods to trade, but was most beneficial as
- A.
A means of defense against outside attacks
- B.
A trade commodity itself, being one of the only freshwater sources in North Africa
- C.
Another food source from the water creatures that lived within the Nile
- D.
Another food source from the Nile's fertile silt that was deposited along its banks
Correct Answer
D. Another food source from the Nile's fertile silt that was deposited along its banksExplanation
The correct answer is another food source from the Nile's fertile silt that was deposited along its banks. The Nile River was known for its annual flooding, which deposited nutrient-rich silt along its banks. This fertile soil allowed the Egyptians to cultivate crops and sustain their civilization. The Nile's silt provided a constant and reliable source of food for the ancient Egyptians, making it an important resource for their survival and development.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The Egyptians reigned for centuries in North Africa, eventually falling to its southern neighbors the
- A.
Assyrians
- B.
Kush
- C.
Bantu
- D.
Persians
Correct Answer
B. KushExplanation
Kush is the correct answer because the Egyptians did indeed fall to their southern neighbors, the Kushites. The Kushite Kingdom, also known as Nubia, was located in present-day Sudan and played a significant role in the history of ancient Egypt. The Kushites conquered Egypt around 747 BC and established the 25th Dynasty, ruling over Egypt for several generations. They adopted many aspects of Egyptian culture and continued the traditions of pharaohs and pyramid-building. However, the Kushite rule eventually declined due to internal conflicts and external invasions, leading to the rise of other powers in the region.Rate this question:
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- 28.
China was said to experience a number of natural disasters during its long history, none more common to the people than "China's Sorrow," which was
- A.
The overflow of the Yellow River
- B.
The periodic draught stemming from the dry climate of the Gobi Desert
- C.
Earthquakes that often destroyed entire villages
- D.
Tsunami's from storms off of the China Sea
Correct Answer
A. The overflow of the Yellow RiverExplanation
China's Sorrow refers to the overflow of the Yellow River. This river has a long history of flooding, causing significant devastation to the surrounding areas. The Yellow River is prone to overflowing due to its high sediment load and the flat terrain of the region, which leads to frequent changes in its course and the formation of natural dams. These natural dams can break during heavy rainfall, causing the river to burst its banks and flood nearby towns and villages. The frequent occurrence of these floods has earned the Yellow River the nickname "China's Sorrow."Rate this question:
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- 29.
Filial Piety is
- A.
Respect for oneself
- B.
Respect for one's country
- C.
Respect for one's family
- D.
Respect for one's work
Correct Answer
C. Respect for one's familyExplanation
Filial piety refers to the virtue of respecting and honoring one's family, particularly one's parents and ancestors. It is a concept deeply rooted in many Asian cultures, emphasizing the importance of filial duty, obedience, and care towards one's parents and elders. This traditional value promotes the idea that family is the foundation of society and should be prioritized and respected above all else. Thus, the correct answer is "respect for one's family."Rate this question:
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- 30.
The Israelites height of prosperity was reached as the 12 Tribes of Israel where
- A.
All 12 tribes were eventually assimilated into non-Israelite cultures
- B.
10 tribes were assimilated into non-Israelite cultures, but 2 remained to become the modern Jews
- C.
2 tribes assimilated into non-Israelite cultures, and 10 remained to become the modern Jews
- D.
All 12 remained to become the modern Jews
Correct Answer
B. 10 tribes were assimilated into non-Israelite cultures, but 2 remained to become the modern JewsExplanation
The correct answer is that 10 tribes were assimilated into non-Israelite cultures, but 2 remained to become the modern Jews. This means that the majority of the Israelite tribes were assimilated into other cultures, losing their distinct identity, while only two tribes managed to maintain their heritage and eventually became the modern Jewish people. This suggests that the height of prosperity for the Israelites was followed by a period of decline and dispersal, with only a small remnant preserving their unique identity.Rate this question:
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