What Do You Know About China? Trivia Quiz
China has the largest population in the world, with over 1.3 billion people. We got to learn that much of China’s modern beliefs and philosophies are based on the teachings of a government official who lived nearly 3,000 years ago. Take this test on our study of China below and refresh your memory.
- 1.
Who was the leader of the Communist (Cultural) Revolution in China?
- A.
Marco Polo
- B.
Shi Huangdi
- C.
Mao Ze Dong
- D.
Confucius
- E.
Genghis Khan
Correct Answer
C. Mao Ze DongExplanation
Mao Ze Dong was the leader of the Communist (Cultural) Revolution in China. He was a Chinese communist revolutionary and the founding father of the People's Republic of China. Mao led the Communist Party of China to victory against the Kuomintang in the Chinese Civil War, and subsequently implemented socialist policies in the country. He launched the Cultural Revolution in 1966, aiming to reassert communist ideology and eliminate capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society. Mao's leadership and policies had a profound impact on China's political, social, and cultural landscape.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Who was a wise teacher, who taught doing the right thing and hoped to bring order to China?
- A.
Marco Polo
- B.
Shi Huangdi
- C.
Mao Ze Dong
- D.
Confucius
- E.
Genghis Khan
Correct Answer
D. ConfuciusExplanation
Confucius was a wise teacher who emphasized the importance of doing the right thing and sought to bring order to China. He believed in the concept of moral values, proper conduct, and respect for authority. Confucius' teachings, known as Confucianism, had a significant influence on Chinese culture and society, shaping their ethical and moral values for centuries. His teachings focused on the importance of education, self-improvement, and the cultivation of virtues such as loyalty, filial piety, and benevolence. Confucius' teachings aimed to establish harmony and social order in China.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Who was a Mongol emperor who conquered most of Asia?
- A.
Marco Polo
- B.
Shi Huangdi
- C.
Mao Ze Dong
- D.
Confucius
- E.
Genghis Khan
Correct Answer
E. Genghis KhanExplanation
Genghis Khan was a Mongol emperor who successfully conquered most of Asia. He established the Mongol Empire, which at its height, stretched from Eastern Europe to the Sea of Japan. Genghis Khan was a skilled military strategist and leader, known for his brutal and effective tactics in warfare. His empire had a lasting impact on the regions it conquered, both politically and culturally. Genghis Khan's conquests laid the foundation for the later expansion of the Mongol Empire and its successors.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Who was an Italian merchant whose stories of his travels in China sparked European interest in Asia?
- A.
Marco Polo
- B.
Shi Huangdi
- C.
Mao Ze Dong
- D.
Confucius
- E.
Genghis Khan
Correct Answer
A. Marco PoloExplanation
Marco Polo was an Italian merchant whose stories of his travels in China sparked European interest in Asia. He documented his experiences and adventures in his book "The Travels of Marco Polo," which became widely popular in Europe. His detailed descriptions of the wealth, culture, and advanced technologies of China fascinated Europeans and inspired future explorers and traders to venture into Asia. Marco Polo's accounts played a crucial role in expanding European knowledge and curiosity about Asia during the Middle Ages.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Who was the first emperor of China who connected the Great Wall?
- A.
Marco Polo
- B.
Shi Huangdi
- C.
Mao Ze Dong
- D.
Confucius
- E.
Genghis Khan
Correct Answer
B. Shi HuangdiExplanation
Shi Huangdi is the correct answer because he was the first emperor of China who connected the Great Wall. He is known for his unification of China and the construction of the Great Wall, which was done to protect the country from invasions. Shi Huangdi's reign marked a significant period in Chinese history and his efforts in connecting the Great Wall played a crucial role in the defense and security of the empire.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What was the purpose of the Great Wall of China?
- A.
To keep foreign traders out of China
- B.
To keep foreign missionaries out of China
- C.
To keep invading nomads out of China
- D.
To keep over-worked peasants from leaving China
Correct Answer
C. To keep invading nomads out of ChinaExplanation
The purpose of the Great Wall of China was to keep invading nomads out of China. The wall was built as a defensive barrier to protect the Chinese empire from the constant threat of nomadic tribes from the north, such as the Mongols and Xiongnu. It served as a physical barrier and deterrent to prevent these nomads from infiltrating and attacking Chinese territories. The construction of the Great Wall was a massive undertaking that spanned centuries and involved multiple dynasties, showcasing the importance placed on defending China's borders from external threats.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following is NOT TRUE about Shi Huangdi?
- A.
He had the terra cotta army built to protect his tomb
- B.
He united warring states to form the first Chinese Empire
- C.
He was a very kind and effectionate leader who loved his people
- D.
He built the Great Wall by connecting smaller segments
Correct Answer
C. He was a very kind and effectionate leader who loved his peopleExplanation
Shi Huangdi was not a very kind and affectionate leader who loved his people. This can be inferred from his strict rule and harsh treatment of dissenters. He implemented strict laws, standardized measurements, and abolished feudalism, which led to the suppression of individual freedoms. Additionally, he ordered the burning of books and the burial of scholars who opposed his ideas. These actions suggest that he prioritized control and power over the well-being and happiness of his people.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Why is western China far less populated than eastern China?
- A.
The terrain and climate in the west make it less desirable to live in
- B.
The nomads keep killing all the people in western China's towns
- C.
Western China is far too polluted for human habitation
- D.
Western China is reserved for nature conservatories and reserves
Correct Answer
A. The terrain and climate in the west make it less desirable to live inExplanation
The terrain and climate in western China are less desirable for human habitation, which is why it is far less populated than eastern China. The region is characterized by rugged mountains, high plateaus, and harsh desert conditions, making it difficult for agriculture and settlement. The extreme temperatures, limited water resources, and lack of fertile land also contribute to the low population density in western China.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is NOT TRUE about theThree Gorges Dam?
- A.
It was Mao Ze Dong's project in the 1950's
- B.
Over one million people were displaced to make room for it
- C.
It will provide one tenth of China's power
- D.
It will help control costly and life-threatening flooding of the Yangtze
Correct Answer
A. It was Mao Ze Dong's project in the 1950'sExplanation
The statement "It was Mao Ze Dong's project in the 1950's" is not true about the Three Gorges Dam. The project for the Three Gorges Dam was proposed in the 1990s and construction began in 1994. It was not a project of Mao Ze Dong in the 1950s.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following is true about the Silk Road?
- A.
It is still used in modern times by caravans of silk traders from China
- B.
It was lined with silk material from east to west
- C.
It was used to trade Chinese silk and porcelein for gold and cotton
- D.
Caterpillars and silk worms grew alongside this road and were harvested there
Correct Answer
C. It was used to trade Chinese silk and porcelein for gold and cottonExplanation
The Silk Road was an ancient network of trade routes that connected the East and West. It facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between different civilizations. One of the most significant commodities traded along the Silk Road was Chinese silk, which was highly sought after in the West. Additionally, porcelain, another valuable Chinese product, was also traded. In return, gold and cotton were among the goods that were exchanged by the Western traders. This trade route played a crucial role in the development of global commerce and cultural exchange.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What is the reason the Chinese called themselves the "Middle Kingdom"?
- A.
They thought they were the most civilized people on earth, and thus the 'middle' of civilization
- B.
They believed they were the lesser servants of the Great Kingdom of the Mongols to the north
- C.
They were surrounded on all sides by other, more important nations in Asia
- D.
It was the Middle Ages, so this seemed like an appropriate name for them at the time
Correct Answer
A. They thought they were the most civilized people on earth, and thus the 'middle' of civilizationExplanation
The Chinese called themselves the "Middle Kingdom" because they believed they were the most civilized people on earth. They saw themselves as the center of civilization, hence the term "middle."Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which two words complete the following sentence to make it a true statement? The Chinese ______________________ to their ancestors for ____________________________.
- A.
Look, love
- B.
Worship, creation
- C.
Pray, guidance
- D.
Hope, sun
Correct Answer
C. Pray, guidanceExplanation
The sentence is discussing the Chinese people showing respect or reverence to their ancestors, which suggests a religious or spiritual practice. The word "pray" fits this context as it implies a form of communication or connection with the ancestors. The word "guidance" also makes sense as it suggests that the Chinese seek advice or direction from their ancestors. Together, "pray" and "guidance" complete the sentence by conveying the idea of the Chinese people praying to their ancestors for guidance.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which term is the name used for a line of rulers who all come from the same family?
- A.
Ancestry
- B.
Dynasty
- C.
Empire
- D.
Lineage
Correct Answer
B. DynastyExplanation
A dynasty refers to a line of rulers who all belong to the same family. This term is commonly used to describe a succession of rulers from one generation to the next within a particular family. It signifies the hereditary nature of power and authority, where leadership is passed down through bloodline rather than being determined by election or appointment. Dynasties have played a significant role in shaping the history and governance of various civilizations throughout the world.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What problem did Confucius's teachings help Chinese rulers solve?
- A.
Keeping order
- B.
Feeding the people
- C.
Defending China's borders
- D.
Developing technology
Correct Answer
A. Keeping orderExplanation
Confucius's teachings helped Chinese rulers solve the problem of keeping order. Confucianism emphasized the importance of social harmony, respect for authority, and adherence to moral principles. By promoting these values, Confucius aimed to establish a stable and well-ordered society. Chinese rulers adopted Confucian teachings as a guiding philosophy, implementing them in their governance and administration. This focus on maintaining order helped to prevent social unrest, maintain stability, and ensure the smooth functioning of the state.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The Daoist (Taoist) symbol that means the universe is made up of two forces and each contains some of the other, such as hot and cold, fire and earth is
- A.
The Peace symbol
- B.
The Star of David
- C.
The Wheel of Dharma
- D.
The Yin and Yang
Correct Answer
D. The Yin and YangExplanation
The Yin and Yang symbol represents the concept of duality and balance in Daoist philosophy. It illustrates the idea that the universe is composed of two opposing forces, Yin (representing darkness, cold, and passivity) and Yang (representing light, warmth, and activity). The symbol shows that these forces are interconnected and interdependent, as each contains a small amount of the other within it. This symbolizes the harmony and interconnectedness of all things in the universe, and the need for balance between opposing forces.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of the following is NOT TRUE about communism?
- A.
It is both a political and economic system that is in place in countries such as China and North Korea
- B.
It allows the people many freedoms including free speech and freedom of religion
- C.
The government owns everythign from the farms, to the facotries and stores that sell goods
- D.
The government supplies people with jobs, cheap food, housing, and medical care
Correct Answer
B. It allows the people many freedoms including free speech and freedom of religionExplanation
Communism does not allow the people many freedoms including free speech and freedom of religion. In a communist system, the government has control over all aspects of society, including the economy and political system. The government owns everything from farms to factories and stores, and it supplies people with jobs, cheap food, housing, and medical care. However, individual freedoms such as free speech and freedom of religion are often restricted or heavily regulated in communist countries.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which of the following best describes Mao Ze Dong's rule of China?
- A.
He opened the borders and allowed for international trade, making China one of the world's leading economic powers
- B.
The people were given freedom of speech and freedom of the press, among other freedoms
- C.
He had strict control over almost all aspects of the citizens' lives and millions perished under his rule
- D.
He encouraged artists and intellectuals,so China experienced an awakening of the arts
Correct Answer
C. He had strict control over almost all aspects of the citizens' lives and millions perished under his ruleExplanation
Mao Ze Dong's rule of China was characterized by strict control over almost all aspects of the citizens' lives and resulted in the deaths of millions of people. This suggests that his regime was authoritarian and oppressive, with limited freedoms and a high human cost.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What has China done to improve its economy in the last 20 years?
- A.
Bought up all the existing farm land and turned it into factories
- B.
Allowed people to start businesses and buy houses and land as well as developed international trade
- C.
Decreased the amount of food people are allowed to eat in a day
- D.
Closed all factories and converted the land into vast community farms
Correct Answer
B. Allowed people to start businesses and buy houses and land as well as developed international tradeExplanation
China has improved its economy in the last 20 years by allowing people to start businesses and buy houses and land, as well as developing international trade. This approach has created opportunities for entrepreneurship and investment, leading to economic growth and development. By encouraging private ownership and trade, China has attracted foreign investment, increased productivity, and expanded its global market presence. This strategy has helped China transition from a centrally planned economy to a more market-oriented one, driving economic progress and lifting millions of people out of poverty.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following is NOT TRUE about the National People's Congress?
- A.
They choose the president in China as well as the judges and the State Council
- B.
They are run just like the United States Congress
- C.
They are watched over closely by the Communist Party
- D.
They are China's law-making body
Correct Answer
B. They are run just like the United States CongressExplanation
The statement "They are run just like the United States Congress" is not true about the National People's Congress. While both the National People's Congress in China and the United States Congress are legislative bodies, they operate under different political systems and have different structures and functions. The National People's Congress in China is a one-party system closely overseen by the Communist Party, whereas the United States Congress operates under a multi-party system with a system of checks and balances.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What is the major concern about China's environment?
- A.
It has far more resources than its people can use
- B.
It sits on the Ring of Fire
- C.
Air and water pollution due to high population and manufacturing
- D.
Yearly monsoons cause Mao Ze Dong to be grumpy
Correct Answer
C. Air and water pollution due to high population and manufacturingExplanation
China's major concern about its environment is the air and water pollution caused by its high population and manufacturing activities. The combination of a large population and extensive industrialization has led to significant pollution of the air and water resources in China. This pollution has had detrimental effects on the health of the population and the quality of the environment.Rate this question:
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- 21.
What was the approximate value of China's exports in 2001?
- A.
About $1 Billion
- B.
About $5 Billion
- C.
About $10 billion
- D.
About $$20 Billion
Correct Answer
B. About $5 BillionExplanation
In 2001, China's exports were approximately $5 billion.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which statement is correct about China's iron and steel trade between 1999 and 2003?
- A.
Their imports have steadily declined, but exports have continued to increase
- B.
Both imports and exports have sharply increased each year
- C.
Imports have gone up, while exports have stayed close to the same
Correct Answer
C. Imports have gone up, while exports have stayed close to the sameExplanation
Between 1999 and 2003, China's iron and steel trade saw an increase in imports while exports remained relatively stable. This suggests that China was importing more iron and steel products during this period, possibly to meet domestic demand or support its growing industries. However, the level of exports did not experience significant growth, indicating that China may have focused more on satisfying its own market rather than expanding its presence in the global iron and steel trade.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which source of energy is found throughout China?
- A.
Coal
- B.
Hydroelectric power
- C.
Natural gas
- D.
Oil
Correct Answer
D. OilExplanation
Oil is not found throughout China. China is known for its large coal reserves and is the largest producer and consumer of coal in the world. It also has significant hydroelectric power resources and is a major producer of natural gas. However, China does not have significant oil reserves and relies heavily on imports to meet its oil needs.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Where is most of China's hydroelectric power found?
- A.
In the far west
- B.
In the southeast
- C.
In central China
- D.
In the far north
Correct Answer
B. In the southeastExplanation
Most of China's hydroelectric power is found in the southeast. This region is known for its abundant water resources, including major rivers like the Yangtze and Pearl River. These rivers provide ideal conditions for the construction of hydroelectric power plants, which harness the energy of flowing water to generate electricity. Additionally, the southeast region is characterized by mountainous terrain, which further enhances its potential for hydroelectric power generation.Rate this question:
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- 25.
How is the selection of a president in China different from the selection of a president in the United States?
- A.
Chinese citizens directly elect their president, and the US citizens only elect representatives
- B.
China's citizens do not have any part in the election of their leaders at all and US does
- C.
China's citizens elect the Local People's Congress and then have no more input
Correct Answer
C. China's citizens elect the Local People's Congress and then have no more inputExplanation
In China, the selection of a president involves the election of the Local People's Congress, which is a representative body. Once elected, the Local People's Congress then selects the president, and the citizens do not have any further input in the process. This is different from the United States, where citizens directly elect their president through the electoral college system. In the US, citizens have the opportunity to vote for their preferred candidate directly, whereas in China, the selection process involves an intermediary step of electing representatives who then make the final decision on the president.Rate this question:
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- 26.
What may cause the people to believe that the Dynasty has lost the gods' approval?
- A.
Events such as invasions, famines, and floods occur
- B.
The Emperor growing old and feeble
- C.
The dynasty being overthrown by the people
Correct Answer
A. Events such as invasions, famines, and floods occurExplanation
When events such as invasions, famines, and floods occur, it can be perceived as a sign that the Dynasty has lost the gods' approval. These events are often seen as punishments or indications of divine disfavor. The belief is that if the Dynasty had the gods' approval, they would be protected and these calamities would not happen. Therefore, the occurrence of these events can lead people to believe that the Dynasty has fallen out of favor with the gods.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Whichof the three main rivers on the map does NOT start in the Plateau of Tibet?
- A.
Huang He
- B.
Chang Jiang
- C.
Xi Jiang
Correct Answer
C. Xi JiangExplanation
The Xi Jiang is the correct answer because it does not start in the Plateau of Tibet. The Huang He and Chang Jiang both originate in the Plateau of Tibet, while the Xi Jiang starts in the Yunnan Province in southwestern China.Rate this question:
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- 28.
With which country does China have a dispute about its western border?
- A.
Kazakhstan
- B.
Afghanistan
- C.
India
- D.
Mongolia
Correct Answer
C. IndiaExplanation
China has a dispute with India about its western border. The two countries have been engaged in a territorial dispute over the region of Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh. This border dispute has led to military conflicts and tensions between the two nations.Rate this question:
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- 29.
From which northern neighbor did China suffer an invasion that led a foreign empire ruling China?
- A.
Kazakhstan
- B.
Afghanistan
- C.
India
- D.
Mongolia
Correct Answer
D. MongoliaExplanation
China suffered an invasion from its northern neighbor, Mongolia, which led to a foreign empire ruling over China. The Mongol Empire, led by Genghis Khan and later his descendants, conquered China in the 13th century and established the Yuan Dynasty. This invasion had a significant impact on Chinese history, as Mongol rule brought about changes in governance, culture, and trade in China.Rate this question:
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- 30.
China has the most neighbors bordering it on which of its borders?
- A.
North
- B.
West
- C.
East
Correct Answer
B. WestExplanation
China has the most neighbors bordering it on its west border. This is because China shares its western border with multiple countries including Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Pakistan. These neighboring countries contribute to the west border having the highest number of shared borders with China compared to its other borders.Rate this question:
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.jpg "Why is western China far less populated than eastern China?")
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