Ancient Greece Real Test
In the 8th century BC, Greece began to emerge from the Dark Ages, which followed the fall of the Mycenaean civilization. Literacy had been lost and Mycenaean script forgotten, but the Greeks adopted the Phoenician alphabet, modifying it to create the Greek alphabet. Take the test and see what else you remember about their history.
- 1.
1. What effect did the geography of Greece have on its early development?
- A.
Greece had lots of natural resources, so they never traded with other nations
- B.
Being located on the Mediterranean Sea limited cultural diffusion
- C.
75 % of Greece was covered by mountains, which led to independent city-states (called polis)
- D.
Its location limited colonization outside of Greece
Correct Answer
C. 75 % of Greece was covered by mountains, which led to independent city-states (called polis)Explanation
The geography of Greece, with 75% of its land covered by mountains, resulted in the formation of independent city-states known as polis. The mountains acted as natural barriers, isolating different regions and promoting the development of distinct city-states with their own governments, laws, and cultures. This geographical feature hindered centralization and encouraged a sense of local identity and autonomy among the Greek city-states.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which form of government involves the state being ruled by a single individual who often inherits his position?
- A.
Monarchy
- B.
Aristocracy
- C.
Direct democracy
- D.
Oligarchy
Correct Answer
A. MonarchyExplanation
Monarchy involves the state being ruled by a single individual who often inherits his position. In this form of government, the monarch holds supreme power and authority over the country. The position is usually passed down through hereditary succession, meaning that the ruler's child or relative becomes the next monarch. Monarchs have the final say in decision-making and govern the country based on their own judgment and beliefs.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Based on what you see in the chart, how would someone from Athens describe Sparta after visiting it?
- A.
“The Spartans are so strict. Their military is what dominates their society.”
- B.
“It’s interesting how both the rich and poor can be rulers in Sparta.”
- C.
“This society has so many personal freedoms, unlike in Athens.”
- D.
“Sparta is exactly like Athens.”
Correct Answer
A. “The Spartans are so strict. Their military is what dominates their society.”Explanation
The chart suggests that Sparta is known for its strictness and military dominance. This implies that someone from Athens would describe Sparta as a society where the military plays a significant role and strict rules are enforced.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following did Sparta and Athens have in common?
- A.
Both favored democracy
- B.
Both were Greek city-states
- C.
Both were dominated by their military
- D.
They fought on the same side in the Peloponnesian Wars
Correct Answer
B. Both were Greek city-statesExplanation
Sparta and Athens were both Greek city-states. This means that they were independent political entities with their own governments, laws, and customs, located within the larger region of ancient Greece. Despite their differences in government and society, both Sparta and Athens shared a common Greek identity and were part of the same cultural and historical context.Rate this question:
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- 5.
In a comparison between the Greek city-states of Sparta and Athens, Sparta placed more importance with ___.
- A.
Equality and voting rights
- B.
Education
- C.
Art and culture
- D.
The military
Correct Answer
D. The militaryExplanation
Sparta placed more importance on the military compared to Athens. This can be attributed to the fact that Sparta was a highly militaristic society, where military training and discipline were emphasized from a young age. The Spartan way of life revolved around the military, as they believed it was essential for their survival and dominance. In contrast, Athens valued education, art, culture, and democracy more than military prowess.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Who was the Persian king who led his massive forces in an invasion of Greece, only to be held off by the Spartans?
- A.
Socrates
- B.
Alexander
- C.
Plato
- D.
Xerxes
Correct Answer
D. XerxesExplanation
Xerxes was the Persian king who led his massive forces in an invasion of Greece but was held off by the Spartans. Xerxes is known for his attempt to conquer Greece during the Persian Wars, specifically the Battle of Thermopylae, where he faced resistance from the Spartans led by King Leonidas. Despite his overwhelming numbers, Xerxes was unable to defeat the Spartans and was eventually forced to retreat.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which statement describes a direct democracy?
- A.
The government controls the actions of the people
- B.
Citizens participate in government decisions by voting on all laws
- C.
The military leaders create laws
- D.
Religious leaders control the government
Correct Answer
B. Citizens participate in government decisions by voting on all lawsExplanation
A direct democracy is a system where citizens have the power to directly participate in the decision-making process of the government. In this form of government, citizens have the right to vote on all laws and policies, allowing them to have a direct say in the governance of their country. This is different from a representative democracy where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. In a direct democracy, the government does not control the actions of the people, military leaders or religious leaders do not create laws, and the power lies with the citizens to make decisions through voting.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Why is Ancient Greece considered important to Western Civilization?
- A.
Greek culture influenced today’s democracy, architecture, and entertainment
- B.
Athens defeated Sparta in the Peloponnesian Wars
- C.
The Greeks borrowed ideas from Rome and improved upon them
- D.
The Greeks invented the world’s first monotheistic religion
Correct Answer
A. Greek culture influenced today’s democracy, architecture, and entertainmentExplanation
Ancient Greece is considered important to Western Civilization because Greek culture had a significant influence on today's democracy, architecture, and entertainment. The Greeks developed the concept of democracy, which is a form of government that is still widely practiced today. They also created magnificent architectural structures such as the Parthenon, which continue to inspire modern architects. Additionally, Greek theater and literature laid the foundation for modern entertainment, with many of their stories and plays still being studied and performed today.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is NOT a Greek achievement?
- A.
Mathematics, such as the formula for pi
- B.
Philosophy, such as the work of Socrates, Aristotle, and Plato
- C.
Medicine, such as the Hippocratic Oath
- D.
Government, such as using Confucius as the basis for the exam system
Correct Answer
D. Government, such as using Confucius as the basis for the exam systemExplanation
The correct answer is Government, such as using Confucius as the basis for the exam system. This is because Confucius was a Chinese philosopher and his teachings were influential in Chinese society, not Greek society. Greek achievements include mathematics, philosophy, and medicine, but not the use of Confucius in their government or exam system.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What were two regions conquered by Alexander the Great?
- A.
Egypt and Persia
- B.
Persia and China
- C.
China and Egypt
- D.
Macedonia and Germany
Correct Answer
A. Egypt and PersiaExplanation
Alexander the Great conquered Egypt and Persia during his military campaigns. He successfully defeated the Persian Empire and established his rule over Egypt, expanding his empire across these two regions.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Who conquered all of Greece after the Peloponnesian Wars?
- A.
Alexander the Great
- B.
King Darius of Persia
- C.
King Xerxes of Persia
- D.
King Phillip II of Macedonia
Correct Answer
D. King Phillip II of MacedoniaExplanation
King Phillip II of Macedonia conquered all of Greece after the Peloponnesian Wars. He was the father of Alexander the Great and his military tactics and strategies laid the foundation for Alexander's later conquests. Phillip II was able to unite the Greek city-states under his rule and create a powerful empire. His victory at the Battle of Chaeronea in 338 BC solidified his control over Greece and marked the end of the city-state era.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Why was the city of Alexandria in Egypt (on the Nile) important?
- A.
It was the center of Hellenistic culture and the center of trade in the Mediterranean area
- B.
As a military power, Alexandria was second only to Sparta
- C.
The Greeks destroyed all of Egyptian culture
- D.
It was the military headquarters for the Macedonian Army
Correct Answer
A. It was the center of Hellenistic culture and the center of trade in the Mediterranean areaExplanation
The city of Alexandria in Egypt was important because it was the center of Hellenistic culture and the center of trade in the Mediterranean area. This means that it played a significant role in spreading Greek culture and ideas throughout the region, as well as facilitating trade and commerce between different civilizations. It was not mentioned as a military power or the military headquarters for the Macedonian Army, and there is no mention of the Greeks destroying Egyptian culture.Rate this question:
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- 13.
As a young man, Alexander the Great was tutored by this great Greek philosopher and taught to appreciate Greek culture:
- A.
King Phillip II
- B.
Aristotle
- C.
Augustus Caesar
- D.
Pythagorus
Correct Answer
B. AristotleExplanation
As a young man, Alexander the Great was tutored by Aristotle, the great Greek philosopher. Aristotle played a significant role in shaping Alexander's education and worldview, teaching him about various subjects including philosophy, politics, and literature. Under Aristotle's guidance, Alexander developed a deep appreciation for Greek culture, which later influenced his conquests and the spread of Hellenistic culture throughout the lands he conquered.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Based on this image, Hellenism was the result of ___.
- A.
Military strength
- B.
Combining cultural ideas (cultural diffusion)
- C.
Isolation of Egypt, India, Persia, and Greece
- D.
Urbanization
Correct Answer
B. Combining cultural ideas (cultural diffusion)Explanation
Hellenism refers to the spread and adoption of Greek culture, language, and ideas throughout the ancient world. The image suggests that Hellenism was the result of combining cultural ideas through cultural diffusion. This means that Greek culture interacted and mixed with the cultures of other regions such as Egypt, India, Persia, and Greece, leading to the spread and influence of Greek ideas in those areas.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Based on this image, what is “Hellenism”?
- A.
Separation of cultures to prevent the mixing of ideas
- B.
The study of Greek culture
- C.
The spread and blending of Greek culture with other cultures
- D.
A nation along the Mediterranean Sea
Correct Answer
C. The spread and blending of Greek culture with other culturesExplanation
Hellenism refers to the spread and blending of Greek culture with other cultures. This means that Greek ideas, customs, and language were adopted and adapted by other societies, resulting in a fusion of Greek and non-Greek elements. This process occurred during the Hellenistic period, which followed the conquests of Alexander the Great and saw the expansion of Greek influence across a vast territory. Hellenism had a profound impact on art, literature, philosophy, and other aspects of culture, and it laid the foundation for the later development of Western civilization.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which great leader is most closely associated with the spread of Hellenistic civilization?
- A.
Plato
- B.
Julius Caesar
- C.
Alexander the Great
- D.
King Phillip II of Macedonia
Correct Answer
C. Alexander the GreatExplanation
Alexander the Great is most closely associated with the spread of Hellenistic civilization. After inheriting the throne of Macedonia, he embarked on a military campaign that resulted in the conquest and assimilation of various regions, including Egypt, Persia, and India. Through his conquests, Alexander introduced Greek culture, language, and customs to these regions, creating a fusion of Greek and local traditions known as Hellenistic civilization. This cultural exchange had a significant impact on art, architecture, philosophy, and literature, spreading Greek influence throughout the conquered territories.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What happened to Alexander the Great's empire after he died?
- A.
His empire was divided among his top generals.
- B.
His son became ruler
- C.
His wife became ruler
- D.
His Great Uncle became ruler
Correct Answer
A. His empire was divided among his top generals.Explanation
After Alexander the Great's death, his empire was divided among his top generals. This was a common practice in ancient times, where power was often distributed among trusted advisors or military leaders. These generals, known as the Diadochi, each took control of different regions of the empire and established their own kingdoms. This division ultimately led to the fragmentation and decline of Alexander's vast empire.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which Greek Philosopher taught Alexander the Great?
- A.
Socrates
- B.
Plato
- C.
Aristotle
- D.
Phillip of Macedonia
Correct Answer
C. AristotleExplanation
Aristotle is the correct answer because he was indeed the Greek philosopher who taught Alexander the Great. Aristotle was a student of Plato and later became the tutor of Alexander, providing him with a comprehensive education in various subjects, including philosophy, politics, and science. Aristotle's teachings had a significant influence on Alexander, shaping his worldview and approach to leadership.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Who fought in the Peloponnesian war and who was the winner?
- A.
Sparta vs Athens. Sparta won but Greece was weakened and allowed Phillip of Macedonia to invade.
- B.
Sparta vs Athens . Athens won and spread theater and schools to all Greek city-states.
- C.
Persia vs Rome . Rome won and Greek culture was destroyed.
- D.
Athens vs Rome. Athens won and then defeated the Persians.
Correct Answer
A. Sparta vs Athens. Sparta won but Greece was weakened and allowed Phillip of Macedonia to invade.Explanation
During the Peloponnesian War, the two main contenders were Sparta and Athens. Sparta emerged as the victor in this conflict. However, despite their victory, Greece was weakened as a result of the war. This weakened state allowed Phillip of Macedonia to take advantage of the situation and invade Greece.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What formed the foundations of Western Civilization?
- A.
The use of logic taught by Socrates, Plato and Aristotle
- B.
The use of war machines built in Sparta
- C.
Athenian theater
- D.
The use of ships to trade with many countries
Correct Answer
A. The use of logic taught by Socrates, Plato and AristotleExplanation
The use of logic taught by Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle formed the foundations of Western Civilization because these philosophers emphasized critical thinking, reason, and the pursuit of knowledge. Their teachings laid the groundwork for the development of scientific inquiry, democratic governance, and philosophical thought, which became fundamental principles of Western society. The use of logic allowed for the advancement of various fields, including mathematics, ethics, and politics, shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of Western Civilization.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Who is known as the Father of Medicine? Doctors today still take his oath.
- A.
Hippocrates
- B.
Socrates
- C.
Alexander The Great
- D.
Pythagoras
Correct Answer
A. HippocratesExplanation
Hippocrates is known as the Father of Medicine because he was a Greek physician who made significant contributions to the field of medicine. He established medicine as a separate profession and developed the Hippocratic Oath, which is still taken by doctors today. His teachings and writings greatly influenced the development of medical science and ethics, making him a highly respected figure in the history of medicine.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Based on the chart, which best describes the government of Sparta?
- A.
Sparta had a direct democracy where citizens and voted on laws.
- B.
Sparta was ruled by an Oligarchy (a small group of mostly military leaders)
- C.
Sparta had a Monarchy and was ruled by a King who claimed divine right.
- D.
Sparta was ruled by an Aristocracy .
Correct Answer
B. Sparta was ruled by an Oligarchy (a small group of mostly military leaders)Explanation
The chart suggests that Sparta was ruled by an Oligarchy, which is a small group of mostly military leaders. This means that power and decision-making in Sparta were concentrated in the hands of a select few individuals who were primarily from the military. This form of government is different from a direct democracy, monarchy, or aristocracy, as it emphasizes the rule of a few rather than the participation of all citizens, divine right, or rule by the nobility.Rate this question:
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- 23.
What famous Greek wrote the Illiad and The Oddessy?
- A.
Homer
- B.
Hippocrates
- C.
Alexander the Great
- D.
Phillip II
Correct Answer
A. HomerExplanation
Homer is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the famous Greek author who wrote the Illiad and The Odyssey. These epic poems are considered to be two of the greatest works of ancient Greek literature and have had a significant influence on Western literature and storytelling. Homer's authorship of these works has been debated by scholars, but he is traditionally credited as their author.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The Illiad tells the story of the Trojan War. Which best describes why the war was fought?
- A.
The war was over who would have Helen of Troy.
- B.
The war was fought over resources.
- C.
The war was fought over who would have Plato as their teacher.
- D.
The was was fought over who would claim Athens as their capital.
Correct Answer
A. The war was over who would have Helen of Troy.Explanation
The correct answer is "The war was over who would have Helen of Troy." This is because the mythological story of the Trojan War, as described in The Iliad, revolves around the abduction of Helen, the wife of Menelaus, by Paris, the prince of Troy. Menelaus and his brother Agamemnon gather an army of Greek warriors to reclaim Helen and avenge the dishonor brought upon their family. The war is therefore fought over the possession of Helen and the restoration of Menelaus' honor.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which of these was a temple built on a hill in almost every Greek city-state?
- A.
Acropolis
- B.
Marketplace
- C.
Polis
- D.
Parthenon
Correct Answer
A. AcropolisExplanation
The Acropolis was a temple built on a hill in almost every Greek city-state. It was a significant architectural and cultural symbol in ancient Greece, serving as a religious center and a fortress. The most famous example of an Acropolis is the one in Athens, which includes the iconic Parthenon. The Acropolis was a symbol of Greek pride and power, and its construction on a hill made it visible from afar, emphasizing its importance in the city-state.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of these was the temple in Athens built in honor of Athena?
- A.
Acropolis
- B.
Marketplace
- C.
Polis
- D.
Parthenon
Correct Answer
D. ParthenonExplanation
The Parthenon was the temple in Athens built in honor of Athena. It was a magnificent structure located on the Acropolis, a hilltop in Athens. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena, who was the patron deity of the city. The Parthenon was renowned for its architectural beauty and was considered a symbol of Athenian power and culture. It was designed and constructed in the 5th century BCE and remains an iconic landmark in Greece today.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Who could vote in ancient Athens?
- A.
Citizens who were Male
- B.
All Citizens (male and female) over 18
- C.
Anyone who lived in the city
- D.
Anyone who paid taxes
Correct Answer
A. Citizens who were MaleExplanation
In ancient Athens, only male citizens were allowed to vote. This was a common practice in many ancient Greek city-states, where political participation was limited to adult males who were considered full citizens. Women, foreigners, and slaves were excluded from the political process and did not have the right to vote.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Which describes the body of water that borders Greece and how it impacted it's development?
- A.
Mediterranean Sea - encouraged trade by ship since it was hard to trade over land
- B.
Mediterranean Sea - encouraged trade over land since the sea was so rough
- C.
Atlantic Ocean - encouraged trade with North America
- D.
Atlantic Ocean - encouraged trade over land since they could not cross the Ocean
Correct Answer
A. Mediterranean Sea - encouraged trade by ship since it was hard to trade over landExplanation
The Mediterranean Sea is the correct answer because it encouraged trade by ship since it was difficult to trade over land. Greece, being a country with a rugged and mountainous terrain, faced challenges in establishing land trade routes. The Mediterranean Sea provided a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for trade, allowing Greece to connect with other civilizations and engage in commerce. The sea facilitated cultural exchange, the spread of ideas, and the growth of Greek city-states.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which best describes the difference in democracy in Ancient Athens and democracy in the United States today. (choose the 2 that apply)
- A.
They were exactly the same
- B.
In Athens only male citizens could vote, in the US all citizens over 18 can vote
- C.
In Athens male citizens voted on all laws, in the US we elect representatives
- D.
In Athens they only allowed women to vote to elect representatives, in the US all citizens vote an all laws.
Correct Answer(s)
B. In Athens only male citizens could vote, in the US all citizens over 18 can vote
C. In Athens male citizens voted on all laws, in the US we elect representativesExplanation
In Ancient Athens, only male citizens had the right to vote, while in the United States today, all citizens over the age of 18 have the right to vote. Additionally, in Athens, male citizens directly voted on all laws, whereas in the US, citizens elect representatives who make laws on their behalf.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which best describes agriculture in Ancient Greece.
- A.
Good farmland was hard to find so they had to trade with others, often by sail.
- B.
There were lots of rivers and flat land that made it easy to farm.
- C.
It was hard to farm because they did not have good seeds and technology.
- D.
There were many skilled farmers to farm all the available, easy to farm land.
Correct Answer
A. Good farmland was hard to find so they had to trade with others, often by sail.Explanation
The answer "Good farmland was hard to find so they had to trade with others, often by sail" accurately describes agriculture in Ancient Greece. This suggests that the land suitable for farming was limited, forcing the Greeks to rely on trade for agricultural resources. The mention of sailing indicates that they had to travel to other regions to obtain the necessary goods for farming. This answer aligns with the historical context of Ancient Greece and their agricultural practices.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which best describes religion in Ancient Greece?
- A.
Polytheism
- B.
Monotheism
- C.
Non-theism
- D.
Animism
Correct Answer
A. PolytheismExplanation
In Ancient Greece, the predominant belief system was polytheism, which means the worship of multiple gods and goddesses. This is evident in their mythology, where various deities were worshipped and revered for different aspects of life, such as Zeus, the king of the gods, and Athena, the goddess of wisdom. The Greeks believed that these gods and goddesses controlled various aspects of the world and human existence. This polytheistic belief system was deeply ingrained in Greek society and influenced their religious practices, rituals, and even their art and literature.Rate this question:
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.jpg "Which form of government involves the state being ruled by a single individual who often inherits his position?")
.jpg "Based on what you see in the chart, how would someone from Athens describe Sparta after visiting it?")
.jpg "Based on this image, what is “Hellenism”?")
.jpg "Based on the chart, which best describes the government of Sparta?")
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