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Mesopotamia is popularly known for its advances in the agricultural field and it is considered the first river valley civilization, as it is located between two very important rivers. The main crops that were grown here were wheat, eggplants and bailey. Take up the quiz below and see how much you know about this amazing civilization. All the best!
Questions and Answers
1.
Civilization developed in the Fertile Crescent because?
A.
The Nile River made it a prosperous area.
B.
It was an important mining area
C.
The area was difficult to defend
D.
The rivers created very rich farmland
Correct Answer D. The rivers created very rich farmland
Explanation The Fertile Crescent developed civilization because the rivers in the area created very rich farmland. The presence of fertile soil allowed for successful agriculture, which in turn led to the growth of settlements and the development of complex societies. The abundance of food from farming supported a larger population and allowed for specialization in other areas such as trade, art, and governance. The rivers provided a reliable water source for irrigation, ensuring the continued fertility of the land and the sustainability of the civilization.
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2.
Because the cities in Sumer were separated by long stretches of desert land,
A.
They united under one government
B.
They developed into separate city-states
C.
They were ruled by one King and Queen
D.
They were frequently destroyed by floods
Correct Answer B. They developed into separate city-states
Explanation Due to the geographical barrier of long stretches of desert land between cities in Sumer, the cities were isolated from each other. This isolation led to the development of separate city-states, each with its own government and ruling elite. The city-states were independent entities, with their own laws, economies, and religious practices. This allowed for cultural diversity and competition among the city-states in Sumer.
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3.
Babylon became an important center of trade because it was
A.
Located between cities to the south and north.
B.
Ruled by a powerful queen
C.
Surrounded by massive walls
D.
The site of a great library
Correct Answer A. Located between cities to the south and north.
Explanation Babylon became an important center of trade because it was strategically located between cities to the south and north. This advantageous geographical position allowed Babylon to serve as a hub for trade routes, facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas between different regions. Its location enabled merchants to easily access markets in both directions, contributing to the city's economic growth and prosperity.
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4.
In 612B.C., the Medes and Chaldeans joined forces to
A.
Build the city of Nineveh
B.
Found the overland trade route to Asia
C.
Destroy the Assyrian empire
D.
Conquer Mari
Correct Answer C. Destroy the Assyrian empire
Explanation The correct answer is "destroy the Assyrian empire." In 612 B.C., the Medes and Chaldeans formed an alliance and successfully attacked and destroyed the Assyrian empire. This marked the end of the Assyrian rule and allowed the Medes and Chaldeans to establish their dominance in the region.
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5.
Hammurabi's code was significant because
A.
It was part of the oral traditions of Babylonia
B.
For the first time, laws were written down
C.
Everyone in the ancient world followed them
D.
The laws applied equally to all citizens
Correct Answer B. For the first time, laws were written down
Explanation Hammurabi's code was significant because it was the first time that laws were written down. Prior to this, laws were part of the oral traditions of Babylonia, making them more susceptible to misinterpretation and manipulation. By having the laws written down, there was a greater sense of clarity and transparency in how they were applied. This marked a significant shift in legal systems, as it allowed for a more standardized and consistent approach to justice.
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6.
The Phoenician alphabet made it easier for people in the ancient world to
A.
Hire scribes
B.
Learn to read and write
C.
Teach cuneiform
D.
Learn cuneiform
Correct Answer B. Learn to read and write
Explanation The Phoenician alphabet made it easier for people in the ancient world to learn to read and write. The Phoenician alphabet was a simplified writing system that consisted of 22 consonant symbols, making it easier to learn and master compared to other writing systems like cuneiform. This alphabet was eventually adopted and adapted by various civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, which further spread literacy and communication throughout the ancient world.
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7.
One of the major events in the history of the Israelites was
A.
The discovery of cuneiform
B.
The conquest of Egypt
C.
The settlement of Canaan
D.
The founding of Tyre
Correct Answer C. The settlement of Canaan
Explanation The settlement of Canaan is considered a major event in the history of the Israelites. Canaan was the promised land that God had promised to give to the Israelites, according to the Hebrew Bible. The settlement of Canaan marked the fulfillment of this promise and the establishment of the Israelite nation in their ancestral homeland. This event is significant because it solidified the Israelites' identity as a distinct people and set the stage for the development of their religious and cultural traditions.
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8.
What were the Israelites known for that made them unique among ancient people?
A.
They worshipped one god.
B.
They did not have a written bible
C.
They worshipped many gods
D.
They made purple dye from snails
Correct Answer A. They worshipped one god.
Explanation The Israelites were known for worshipping one god, which set them apart from other ancient people who worshipped multiple gods. This monotheistic belief was a defining characteristic of the Israelites and played a significant role in shaping their culture, religious practices, and societal norms. It distinguished them from neighboring civilizations and influenced their history, including the development of Judaism and the eventual emergence of Christianity and Islam.
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9.
Why did Phoenicia become a thriving and wealthy region?
A.
They warlike Phoenicia conquered their neighbors
B.
Gold was discovered near the city of Tyre
C.
Phoenicia controlled access to the cities of Sumer
D.
Phoenicians sold valuable wood and dyed cloth to neighboring peoples
Correct Answer D. Phoenicians sold valuable wood and dyed cloth to neighboring peoples
Explanation Phoenicia became a thriving and wealthy region because the Phoenicians sold valuable wood and dyed cloth to neighboring peoples. This trade allowed them to acquire wealth and establish prosperous economic relationships with other regions. By offering high-quality products, the Phoenicians were able to attract customers and establish themselves as a prominent trading power in the ancient world. This economic success contributed to the overall prosperity and wealth of the region.
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10.
The Fertile Crescent got its name because it was shaped like the crescent moon.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer A. True
Explanation The Fertile Crescent got its name because it was shaped like the crescent moon. This region, located in the Middle East, stretches from the eastern Mediterranean coast to the Persian Gulf, and is known for its fertile soil and agricultural productivity. The curved shape of the region resembles the shape of a crescent moon, hence the name "Fertile Crescent."
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11.
What is this a picture of?
A.
Pyramid
B.
Ziggurat
C.
Mesopotamia
D.
Hammurabi's House
Correct Answer B. Ziggurat
Explanation A ziggurat is a type of ancient Mesopotamian temple tower. It is characterized by its stepped structure, with each level receding slightly from the one below it. Ziggurats were built as religious structures and were believed to be the dwelling places of the gods. They were commonly found in ancient Mesopotamia, which is known as the cradle of civilization. The answer "Ziggurat" is correct because the picture is most likely depicting a ziggurat due to its distinct stepped shape and association with Mesopotamia.
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12.
One important advantage of the Phoenician alphabet was
A.
It was only used by the scribes
B.
All the people learned to read and write the symbols
C.
It used only 100 symbols
D.
It was simpler than cuneiform
Correct Answer D. It was simpler than cuneiform
Explanation The Phoenician alphabet was simpler than cuneiform, which was an advantage. Unlike cuneiform, which used hundreds of complex symbols, the Phoenician alphabet consisted of only 22 simple characters. This made it easier to learn and use for both scribes and the general population. The simplicity of the alphabet allowed for greater accessibility and widespread literacy, as all people could learn to read and write the symbols.
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13.
Select TWO accomplishments / Achievements of the Chaldeans
A.
Roads
B.
Science
C.
Written Rules
D.
Alphabet
E.
Math
Correct Answer(s) B. Science E. Math
Explanation The Chaldeans were known for their advancements in science and mathematics. They made significant contributions to the fields of astronomy, astrology, and mathematics. They developed a sophisticated system of mathematics, including the concept of zero and the use of a base-60 numeral system. Their astronomical observations and calculations were highly accurate, and they were able to predict celestial events such as eclipses. These achievements in science and math demonstrate the intellectual prowess of the Chaldeans and their importance in the history of scientific and mathematical advancements.
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14.
Along with having great weapons the Assyrians were such skilled warriors because they were never under attack.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer B. False
Explanation The statement suggests that the Assyrians were skilled warriors because they were never under attack. However, this is not a valid explanation. The Assyrians were known for their military prowess and expansionist policies, which involved frequent warfare and conquests. They developed advanced military strategies, weapons, and tactics to defend and expand their empire. Therefore, the statement is false, as the Assyrians were indeed frequently under attack and had to rely on their military skills to defend themselves.
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15.
Hammurabi's code were the first _______ Rules?
Correct Answer written
Explanation Hammurabi's code was the first set of written rules. This means that it was the first known legal code that was written down and documented. Prior to Hammurabi's code, rules and laws were likely passed down orally or through customs and traditions. The fact that Hammurabi's code was written allowed for a more standardized and consistent application of the law, as well as providing a reference for future generations.
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16.
Abraham taught his people to practice monotheism
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer A. True
Explanation Abraham, a central figure in the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, is believed to have taught his people to practice monotheism. Monotheism is the belief in and worship of only one god, as opposed to polytheism which involves the belief in multiple gods. This teaching by Abraham is significant because it laid the foundation for the monotheistic traditions that followed, shaping the beliefs and practices of millions of people around the world.
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17.
The belief in many gods
A.
Monotheism
B.
Polytheism
C.
Myth
D.
Empire
Correct Answer B. Polytheism
Explanation Polytheism refers to the belief in many gods, which is the exact opposite of monotheism, the belief in only one god. In polytheistic religions, such as ancient Greek or Roman mythology, there are multiple deities that are worshipped and revered. These gods and goddesses often have different domains and powers, and are seen as separate entities. This belief system is in contrast to monotheistic religions like Christianity or Islam, where there is a belief in a single supreme deity.
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18.
A story that explains peoples' beliefs
A.
Myth
B.
Famine
C.
Scribe
D.
Exile
Correct Answer A. Myth
Explanation A myth is a traditional story that is used to explain people's beliefs. It often involves gods, heroes, and supernatural beings, and is passed down through generations. Myths are used to make sense of the world and its origins, and they often contain moral lessons or explain natural phenomena. They can be found in various cultures and have been used to shape religious, cultural, and societal beliefs and practices.
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19.
A time when people starve because there is so little food
A.
Scribe
B.
Caravan
C.
Famine
D.
Exile
Correct Answer C. Famine
Explanation Famine refers to a time when people suffer from extreme scarcity of food, leading to starvation. It is a situation where there is a severe shortage of food resources, causing widespread hunger and malnutrition. The word "famine" perfectly fits the description of a time when people starve due to the lack of food.
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20.
Many territories and people who are controlled by one government
A.
Polytheism
B.
Myth
C.
Caravan
D.
Empire
Correct Answer D. Empire
Explanation An empire refers to a political entity that governs multiple territories and people under one centralized government. It is characterized by the control and dominance of one nation or group over others. The term "empire" implies a vast and powerful state that extends its influence beyond its borders. It often involves the conquest and assimilation of various regions, cultures, and peoples into a unified political system. Empires historically have been known for their expansionist policies, military strength, and the establishment of colonies or client states.
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21.
The belief in one god
A.
Polytheism
B.
Myth
C.
Monotheism
D.
Scribe
Correct Answer C. Monotheism
Explanation Monotheism refers to the belief in one god. This belief system stands in contrast to polytheism, which involves the worship of multiple gods, and myth, which refers to traditional stories or legends. Scribes, on the other hand, are individuals who are skilled in writing and record-keeping. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is monotheism, as it accurately describes the belief in one god.
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22.
A community with its own separate government and laws
A.
Myth
B.
City-state
C.
Famine
D.
Bazaar
Correct Answer B. City-state
Explanation A city-state refers to a community that has its own separate government and laws. It is an independent political unit that functions as both a city and a state. In a city-state, the city itself serves as the center of political, economic, and social life, and it has the authority to govern its own affairs. This term is often used to describe ancient Greek city-states like Athens and Sparta, which were autonomous entities with their own governments and laws.
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23.
A type of writing with wedges and lines
A.
Alphabet
B.
Scribe
C.
Cuneiform
D.
Diaspora
Correct Answer C. Cuneiform
Explanation Cuneiform is a type of writing that uses wedges and lines. It was developed by the ancient Sumerians in Mesopotamia around 3500 BCE. The word "cuneiform" comes from the Latin word "cuneus," meaning wedge, and "forma," meaning shape. The writing system was created by pressing a stylus into clay tablets to create wedge-shaped impressions. Cuneiform was used to write various languages in the ancient Near East, including Sumerian, Akkadian, and Babylonian. It was one of the earliest known writing systems and played a significant role in the development of human civilization.