1.
The custom of making April fools was called this in Scotland:
Correct Answer
B. Hunting the gowk
Explanation
In Scotland the custom was known as "hunting the gowk," i.e. the cuckoo, and April-fools were "April-gowks," the cuckoo being a term of contempt.
2.
April Fool's Day is also called:
Correct Answer
A. All Fool's Day
Explanation
April Fool's Day is also known as "All Fool's Day" because it is a day when people play pranks and jokes on each other. The term "fool" refers to someone who is easily deceived or tricked, which is the essence of this day. It is a tradition that dates back centuries and is celebrated in many countries around the world. The name "All Fool's Day" accurately represents the nature and purpose of this light-hearted and playful holiday.
3.
April Fool's Day closely follows the:
Correct Answer
C. Vernal equinox
Explanation
April Fool's Day closely follows the vernal equinox. The vernal equinox marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, which typically occurs around March 20th. April Fool's Day is celebrated on April 1st, just a few days after the vernal equinox. This timing is likely because the arrival of spring brings a sense of renewal and playfulness, making it a fitting time for lighthearted pranks and jokes.
4.
Many ancient cultures celebrated April 1 as:
Correct Answer
D. New Year's Day
Explanation
Ancient cultures, including the Romans and the Hindus, celebrated New Year's Day around April 1.
5.
The French call April Fool's Day:
Correct Answer
B. Poisson d'Avril
Explanation
The French call April 1 Poisson d'Avril, or "April Fish." French children sometimes tape a picture of a fish on the back of their schoolmates, crying "Poisson d'Avril" when the prank is discovered.
6.
Who said this? "The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year."
Correct Answer
C. Mark Twain
Explanation
Mark Twain is the correct answer because he is known for his wit and humor, and this quote reflects his humorous take on April Fool's Day. It suggests that on this day, people play pranks and jokes, which is a reminder of their true nature throughout the rest of the year. This quote aligns with Twain's style of satirical commentary on human behavior and societal norms.
7.
April Fool's Day is generally observed by playing:
Correct Answer
B. A practical joke
Explanation
The day is generally observed by playing a practical joke on a "victim" who soon becomes known as an April Fool.
8.
In England, a fool is called a:
Correct Answer
D. All of the Above
Explanation
In England, a fool is called by various terms, including "gob," "gawby," and "gobby." Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the Above," as all of these terms can be used to refer to a fool in England.
9.
In what country do people throw flour at their friends on April Fool's Day?
Correct Answer
D. Portugal
Explanation
In Portugal, people throw flour at their friends on April Fool's Day. This tradition is known as "Dia das Mentiras" or "Day of Lies" in Portuguese. It is a playful and lighthearted way to celebrate April Fool's Day, where people play pranks on each other by throwing flour, water, or other harmless substances.
10.
In Rome, the holiday was known as:
Correct Answer
A. Festival of Hilaria
Explanation
In Rome, the holiday was known as Festival of Hilaria, celebrating the resurrection of the god Attis and also referred to as "Roman Laughing Day."