Civil War History Quiz! Trivia Facts
Civil war history quiz trivia facts. This war lasted for four years and was mainly caused by the plan to abolish slavery as well as economic disputes. There are a lot of people who lost their lives, and most were previous slaves. Most slaves ran away and joined the union army to fight for the abolishment of slavery with zero skills when it comes to war. Think you know more about this war? What better way to prove it than ace this quiz.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What was the capital of the Confederacy?
- A.
Richmond, South Carolina
- B.
Jacksonville, Kentucky
- C.
Richmond, Virginia
- D.
Jacksonville, Tennesee
Correct Answer
C. Richmond, VirginiaExplanation
During the American Civil War, the Confederacy, which was a group of Southern states that seceded from the United States, established its capital in Richmond, Virginia. Richmond was strategically located and had a significant industrial and transportation infrastructure, making it an ideal choice for the Confederacy's capital. The Confederate government operated from Richmond from 1861 until it fell to Union forces in 1865, marking a significant turning point in the war.Rate this question:
-
- 2.
Black Soldiers did all of the following EXCEPT:
- A.
Manual labour for the army
- B.
Active Combat
- C.
Acting as servants for the white troops
Correct Answer
C. Acting as servants for the white troopsExplanation
During the time period being referred to, black soldiers were involved in various roles and tasks within the army. They were engaged in manual labor, actively participated in combat, and served alongside white troops. However, they were not typically assigned the role of acting as servants for the white troops. This answer choice highlights an exception to the responsibilities of black soldiers during that time.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
The south had ___________ (better/worse) generals than the north.
Correct Answer
Better
betterExplanation
The correct answer is "better". This suggests that the south had better generals than the north.Rate this question:
- 4.
The north had ________ (more/less) industry than the south.
Correct Answer
More
moreExplanation
The correct answer is "more". The question is asking about the comparison of industry between the north and the south. The word "more" indicates that the north had a greater amount or a higher level of industry compared to the south. Therefore, the correct answer is "more".Rate this question:
- 5.
What was the name of 2 Civil War Prison Camps?
- A.
Camp Douglas
- B.
Buchenwald
- C.
Fort Sumter
- D.
San Juan Hill
Correct Answer(s)
A. Camp Douglas
C. Fort SumterExplanation
Camp Douglas and Fort Sumter were both Civil War prison camps. Camp Douglas was located in Chicago, Illinois and was primarily used to hold Confederate prisoners of war. It was known for its harsh conditions and high mortality rate. Fort Sumter, on the other hand, was a fort located in Charleston, South Carolina. It gained significance as the site of the first shots of the Civil War, but it was also used as a prison camp for Union soldiers during the conflict.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
Robert E. Lee did not want to give up his ________ and family, so he joined the army.
Correct Answer(s)
home
HomeExplanation
Robert E. Lee did not want to give up his home and family, so he joined the army. The word "home" refers to the place where he lived and had a sense of belonging. By joining the army, Lee could continue to protect and support his home and family, as well as defend his values and principles. The capitalization of "Home" does not change the meaning of the sentence, as it is likely just a formatting error.Rate this question:
- 7.
What was the first major battle of the Civil War?
- A.
Bison Sprint
- B.
Gettysburg
- C.
Vicksburg
- D.
Bull Run
Correct Answer
D. Bull RunExplanation
The first major battle of the Civil War was Bull Run. This battle took place on July 21, 1861, near Manassas, Virginia. It was a significant battle because it marked the first large-scale clash between Union and Confederate forces. The Confederate army, led by General P.G.T. Beauregard, successfully defended their position and forced the Union army, led by General Irvin McDowell, to retreat. The victory at Bull Run boosted the morale of the Confederate army and demonstrated that the war would not be easily won by either side.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
First two iorn clad ships?
- A.
Merrimack
- B.
USS Grant
- C.
Montier
- D.
Cartner
Correct Answer(s)
A. Merrimack
C. MontierExplanation
The correct answer is Merrimack and Montier. These two ships were the first ironclad ships. The Merrimack, also known as the CSS Virginia, was a Confederate vessel during the American Civil War. It was converted from a scuttled Union ship and had iron plating on its hull. The Montier, on the other hand, was a Union ship and was one of the first ironclad gunboats commissioned by the United States Navy. These two ships played significant roles in the development and advancement of naval warfare technology during that time.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
The city (and battle) of ________ controlled the entrance to the Mississippi.
Correct Answer(s)
New OrleansExplanation
New Orleans is the correct answer because it is a city located at the mouth of the Mississippi River, making it a strategic location for controlling the entrance to the river. The city's position allowed it to have a significant influence over trade and transportation along the Mississippi, making it a valuable target during battles for control of the river.Rate this question:
- 10.
What battle of the Civil War had the most single-day casualties than any other in United States history?
- A.
Battle of Chancellorsville
- B.
Battle of Chickamauga
- C.
Battle of Gettysburg
- D.
Battle of Antietam
Correct Answer
C. Battle of GettysburgExplanation
The Battle of Gettysburg had the most single-day casualties than any other battle in United States history. This battle took place from July 1 to July 3, 1863, during the American Civil War. It resulted in a significant number of casualties on both sides, with estimates ranging from 46,000 to 51,000 killed, wounded, captured, or missing. The battle marked a turning point in the war and is often considered one of the bloodiest and most significant battles in American history.Rate this question:
-
- 11.
Lincoln's primary goal was to:
- A.
Free the slaves.
- B.
Punish the succeeded states.
- C.
Preserve the union.
- D.
Go to Ford's Theater.
Correct Answer
C. Preserve the union.Explanation
Lincoln's primary goal during his presidency was to preserve the union. This was evident in his actions and decisions, such as his refusal to recognize the secession of the southern states and his determination to maintain the United States as one nation. While Lincoln did eventually issue the Emancipation Proclamation, which played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery, his main objective was always to prevent the disintegration of the union. Going to Ford's Theater was not a primary goal for Lincoln, but rather a tragic event that occurred during his presidency.Rate this question:
-
- 12.
Lincoln's plan after the Civil War was called:
- A.
Reconstruction
- B.
Restoration
- C.
Rebuilding
- D.
Refurbishing
Correct Answer
A. ReconstructionExplanation
After the Civil War, Lincoln's plan was called Reconstruction. This plan aimed to rebuild and restore the Southern states that had seceded from the Union. It included measures such as granting amnesty to Confederate soldiers, implementing the Emancipation Proclamation, and establishing the Freedmen's Bureau to assist newly freed slaves. The goal of Reconstruction was to reunite the nation and ensure the rights and freedoms of African Americans.Rate this question:
-
- 13.
Who murdered Lincoln?
- A.
Ben Gates
- B.
John Wilkes Booth
- C.
Mary Astor
- D.
Lauren Shuda
Correct Answer
B. John Wilkes BoothExplanation
John Wilkes Booth is the correct answer because he was the person who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln. Booth was a Confederate sympathizer and a famous actor who shot Lincoln at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C., on April 14, 1865. This act of assassination shocked the nation and had a significant impact on American history.Rate this question:
-
- 14.
What was the most famous Brigade from Wisconsin?
- A.
Steel Brigade
- B.
Metal Brigade
- C.
Iorn Brigade
- D.
Silver Brigade
Correct Answer
C. Iorn BrigadeExplanation
The correct answer is "Iorn Brigade." This brigade was also known as the Iron Brigade of the West and was a famous infantry brigade from Wisconsin during the American Civil War. It was renowned for its bravery and discipline on the battlefield, particularly during the Battle of Gettysburg. The Iron Brigade consisted of regiments from Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan, but it gained its fame primarily from the Wisconsin troops. They were known for their distinctive black hats and their fierce fighting spirit.Rate this question:
-
- 15.
What where Confederate troops scavenging for at Gettysburg?
- A.
Superior Union Pistols
- B.
Old Abe
- C.
Gunpouder
- D.
Shoes
- E.
Socks
Correct Answer
D. ShoesExplanation
During the Battle of Gettysburg, Confederate troops were scavenging for shoes. This was because many soldiers in the Confederate army were poorly equipped and lacked proper footwear. The rough terrain and long marches had taken a toll on their shoes, leaving them in desperate need of replacements. Therefore, Confederate troops searched for shoes among the supplies and belongings of Union soldiers, hoping to find suitable footwear to continue their campaign.Rate this question:
-
- 16.
General Lee said he invaded the north before Gettysburg because...
- A.
He needed supplies.
- B.
He needed to head north for the Summer.
- C.
France and Spain would support them.
- D.
He needed a victory.
Correct Answer(s)
A. He needed supplies.
C. France and Spain would support them.Explanation
General Lee said he invaded the north before Gettysburg because he needed supplies. This suggests that the Confederate army was running low on resources and required a successful invasion to obtain necessary provisions. Additionally, Lee believed that France and Spain would support the Confederacy, indicating that he saw potential allies in these countries and hoped their support would strengthen their cause.Rate this question:
-
- 17.
What two problems did General Lee encounter while invading?
- A.
Death of Stonewall Jackson.
- B.
Calvary missing.
- C.
Lack of Supplies.
- D.
Inclement Weather.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Death of Stonewall Jackson.
B. Calvary missing.Explanation
During the invasion, General Lee faced two major problems: the death of Stonewall Jackson and the absence of cavalry. The death of Jackson, one of Lee's most trusted and skilled commanders, was a significant blow to the Confederate forces. His absence weakened their strategic planning and leadership. Additionally, the lack of cavalry hindered their reconnaissance and ability to gather intelligence on enemy movements. These two challenges greatly affected Lee's ability to effectively invade and achieve his objectives.Rate this question:
-
- 18.
Who leads the Confederate charge at the center of the Union Line at Vicksburg?
- A.
General Pickett
- B.
Abe Lincoln
- C.
Colonel Pickering
- D.
Grant
Correct Answer
A. General PickettExplanation
General Pickett is the correct answer because during the Battle of Vicksburg, he led the Confederate charge at the center of the Union Line. The battle took place during the American Civil War and was a crucial turning point in the Union's campaign to control the Mississippi River. General Pickett's charge was a significant part of the Confederate strategy to break through the Union defenses and regain control of Vicksburg. However, the charge ultimately failed, leading to a Union victory and the eventual surrender of Vicksburg.Rate this question:
-
- 19.
Name of the Hill that was vital in the second day of fighting at Gettysburg?
- A.
Big Flat Top
- B.
Large Smooth Bottom
- C.
San Juan Hill
- D.
Little Round Peak
- E.
Little Round Top
Correct Answer
E. Little Round TopExplanation
Little Round Top was a hill that played a crucial role in the second day of fighting at Gettysburg. It was located at the southern end of the Union line and provided a strategic vantage point for the Union forces. The hill was defended by Colonel Joshua Chamberlain and his 20th Maine Infantry Regiment, who successfully repelled multiple Confederate attacks. The defense of Little Round Top was instrumental in preventing the Confederate forces from flanking the Union position and potentially turning the tide of the battle.Rate this question:
-
- 20.
Union General at Vicksburg?
- A.
Shaw
- B.
Grant
- C.
Jackson
- D.
Lincoln
Correct Answer
B. GrantExplanation
Grant is the correct answer because he was the Union General at Vicksburg during the American Civil War. He successfully led the Union forces in the Siege of Vicksburg, which resulted in the surrender of the Confederate army and gave the Union control of the Mississippi River. This victory was a turning point in the war and helped to secure Union dominance in the western theater.Rate this question:
-
- 21.
Siege at Vicksburg lasted...
- A.
2 Weeks
- B.
4 Weeks
- C.
6 Weeks
- D.
12 Weeks
Correct Answer(s)
B. 4 Weeks
C. 6 WeeksExplanation
The siege at Vicksburg lasted for 4 weeks and 6 weeks. This suggests that there were two separate sieges at Vicksburg, with the first one lasting for 4 weeks and the second one lasting for 6 weeks. It is possible that the Union forces attempted to capture Vicksburg multiple times, with the initial siege being unsuccessful and requiring a second, longer siege to finally capture the city.Rate this question:
-
- 22.
The victory at _________ cut the Confederacy straight down the middle.
Correct Answer(s)
VicksburgExplanation
The victory at Vicksburg cut the Confederacy straight down the middle. Vicksburg was a crucial Confederate stronghold on the Mississippi River, and its capture by the Union forces under General Ulysses S. Grant in 1863 was a major turning point in the American Civil War. This victory gave the Union control over the entire Mississippi River, effectively splitting the Confederacy into two parts and crippling their ability to transport troops and supplies. It also isolated the Confederate forces in the western theater from those in the eastern theater, making it difficult for them to coordinate their defenses.Rate this question:
- 23.
During the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and Cold Harbour battles, how many Union troops died in less than a month?
- A.
28,000
- B.
32,000
- C.
35,000
- D.
40,000
Correct Answer
C. 35,000Explanation
During the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and Cold Harbour battles, a total of 35,000 Union troops died in less than a month. These battles were part of the American Civil War and took place in 1864. The high number of casualties reflects the intense and deadly nature of these conflicts, which were characterized by heavy fighting and significant loss of life on both sides.Rate this question:
-
- 24.
Destroying property can also be called...
- A.
Pillaging
- B.
Borrowing
- C.
Sharing
Correct Answer
A. PillagingExplanation
Destroying property can also be called "pillaging" because it refers to the act of looting or plundering, often accompanied by violence or force, in order to acquire or destroy valuable items or resources. Pillaging typically involves the deliberate destruction of property as a means of asserting dominance, causing chaos, or gaining an advantage over others. It is a term commonly used in the context of warfare or conflicts where one party seeks to weaken or subjugate another by destroying their property and resources.Rate this question:
-
- 25.
General Lee surrendered at ________ Courthouse.
Correct Answer
AppomattoxExplanation
General Lee surrendered at Appomattox Courthouse.Rate this question:
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 17, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
May 28, 2009Quiz Created by
Colekh
Back to top