1.
When did Congress authorize the beginning of the Marine Corps?
Correct Answer
B. 11/10/1775
Explanation
On November 10, 1775, the Congress authorized the beginning of the Marine Corps. This date marks the official establishment of the United States Marine Corps, making it the correct answer.
2.
Who was the first commander of the Continintal Navy?
Correct Answer
D. Esek Hopkins
Explanation
Esek Hopkins was the first commander of the Continental Navy. He was appointed by the Continental Congress in December 1775. Hopkins played a crucial role in organizing and building the naval forces during the American Revolutionary War. Under his command, the Continental Navy successfully raided British ships and disrupted their supply lines. Although his tenure was marked by some controversies and disagreements with his subordinates, Hopkins laid the foundation for the future success of the American Navy.
3.
Who was in charge of the American troops in the battle of Lake Champlain in 1776?
Correct Answer
A. Benedict Arnold
Explanation
In the battle of Lake Champlain in 1776, Benedict Arnold was in charge of the American troops. Benedict Arnold was a general in the Continental Army and played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War. He was known for his bravery and tactical skills, which made him a suitable leader for this battle. Despite his later betrayal of the American cause, at the time of the battle of Lake Champlain, Arnold was a trusted and respected military leader.
4.
England imposed a tax on the colonies in order to
Correct Answer
A. Raise money to pay its debts from the war with France
Explanation
During the war with France, England incurred significant debts that needed to be paid off. To address this financial burden, England decided to impose a tax on the colonies as a means of raising money. By doing so, England aimed to alleviate its debt and improve its financial situation. This tax was not implemented with the intention of preventing the colonies from gaining independence or discouraging trade between England and the colonies.
5.
The American Revolution began at
Correct Answer
D. Lexington and Concord, Massachusets
Explanation
The American Revolution began at Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts. These two towns were the locations of the first military engagements between the American colonists and British soldiers in April 1775. The battles of Lexington and Concord marked the start of the armed conflict that eventually led to the independence of the American colonies from British rule.
6.
The battle at Yorktown in 1781 lasted
Correct Answer
D. 10 days
Explanation
The battle at Yorktown in 1781 lasted for 10 days. This was a crucial battle during the American Revolutionary War where American and French forces, led by General George Washington, trapped the British army under General Cornwallis. The American and French forces successfully besieged Yorktown, leading to the surrender of the British army. This victory marked a turning point in the war, as it significantly weakened British control and ultimately led to the independence of the United States.
7.
The end of fighting in the colonies was marked by the British loss at
Correct Answer
C. Yorktown
Explanation
The end of fighting in the colonies was marked by the British loss at Yorktown. Yorktown was a decisive battle in the American Revolutionary War, where the American and French forces successfully trapped and besieged the British army under General Cornwallis. The British surrender at Yorktown in 1781 effectively ended major military operations in the colonies and ultimately led to the recognition of American independence.
8.
The Declaration of Independence was signed July 4,
Correct Answer
B. 1776
Explanation
The Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776. This document was adopted by the Continental Congress, declaring the thirteen American colonies as independent states from British rule. The signing of the Declaration marked a significant milestone in the American Revolution and laid the foundation for the formation of the United States of America.
9.
The Peace of Paris in 1783 gave the Americans a territory that extended West to
Correct Answer
C. The Mississippi Rever
Explanation
The correct answer is the Mississippi River. The Peace of Paris in 1783 granted the Americans a territory that reached as far west as the Mississippi River. This agreement marked the end of the American Revolutionary War and solidified the United States' control over a significant portion of North America. The Mississippi River served as an important boundary for the newly formed nation and played a crucial role in shaping its expansion and development in the years to come.
10.
The CSS Hunley was a submersible vessel that was designed to pull a torpedo into the side of an enemy ship. Who developed this vessel?
Correct Answer
D. Confederate forces
Explanation
The CSS Hunley was developed by Confederate forces. The CSS Hunley was a submersible vessel specifically designed to pull a torpedo into the side of an enemy ship. It was used during the American Civil War and was the first submarine to successfully sink an enemy ship.
11.
The first people known to use sea power were the sailors and traders of ancient
Correct Answer
D. Crete
Explanation
The correct answer is Crete because the Minoans, who were the ancient inhabitants of Crete, were known to have a strong maritime culture and were skilled sailors and traders. They had a powerful navy and used their sea power to establish trade routes and expand their influence in the Mediterranean region. The Minoans were one of the earliest civilizations to utilize the advantages of sea power, making Crete the correct answer in this context.
12.
Early warships, which were crewed by trained fighting men and propelled by oars as well as sails, were called
Correct Answer
C. Galleys
Explanation
Early warships that were crewed by trained fighting men and propelled by oars as well as sails were called galleys. Galleys were commonly used in ancient times, particularly by civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. These warships were designed for speed and maneuverability, allowing them to engage in naval battles effectively. The oars provided additional propulsion, giving galleys an advantage in close combat situations. Therefore, galleys are the most suitable answer for the given question.
13.
For many centuries after the fall of Rome in 476 A.D., Europe suffered in the turmoil of the Dark Ages while the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Mediterranean fell under the control of the
Correct Answer
A. Moslems
Explanation
During the Dark Ages, Europe faced political instability, economic decline, and cultural stagnation. In contrast, the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Mediterranean flourished under the rule of the Moslems. The Islamic civilization made significant advancements in various fields such as science, mathematics, medicine, and architecture. They also promoted trade and cultural exchange, leading to the preservation and transmission of knowledge from ancient civilizations. This period of Islamic golden age contrasted with the struggles and lack of progress experienced by Europe during the Dark Ages.
14.
The capital of the Byzantine Empire was at
Correct Answer
A. Constantinople
Explanation
Constantinople was the capital of the Byzantine Empire. It was strategically located on the Bosporus Strait, which connected the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea. The city was highly fortified and had a strong defensive position, making it difficult for enemies to attack. Constantinople was also a center of trade and culture, with impressive architecture and a rich history. It served as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the Byzantine Empire for over a thousand years until it fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1453.
15.
The longest period of peace in world history was known as the
Correct Answer
B. Pax Romana
Explanation
Pax Romana refers to the longest period of peace in world history. It was a time of relative stability and tranquility in the Roman Empire, lasting from 27 BC to 180 AD. During this period, the Roman Empire experienced minimal internal conflicts and expansion of its territories. The Pax Romana brought about advancements in architecture, literature, and culture, contributing to a flourishing society. This period is often regarded as a golden age for the Roman Empire, characterized by prosperity and peace.
16.
Our alphabet is based on the alphabet of what ancient people?
Correct Answer
A. pHoenicians
Explanation
The Phoenicians are credited with developing the first alphabet, known as the Phoenician alphabet, around 1200 BCE. This alphabet consisted of 22 consonant symbols and did not include any vowels. The Greeks later adopted and adapted the Phoenician alphabet, adding vowels to create the Greek alphabet. The Romans then adopted and modified the Greek alphabet to create the Latin alphabet, which is the basis for many modern alphabets, including the English alphabet. Therefore, our alphabet is based on the alphabet of the Phoenicians.
17.
What famous war was fought to secure control of the Turkish Straits in order to insure Greek control of the Aegean-Black Sea trade?
Correct Answer
C. The Trojan War
Explanation
The Trojan War was fought to secure control of the Turkish Straits in order to ensure Greek control of the Aegean-Black Sea trade. The war was fought between the Greeks and the Trojans, with the Greeks led by King Agamemnon. The Greek army besieged the city of Troy for ten years before finally conquering it with the help of the famous Trojan Horse. The war had significant economic and strategic implications, as control of the Turkish Straits would allow the Greeks to dominate trade routes between the Aegean Sea and the Black Sea.
18.
What city is known as the birthplace of democracy in government?
Correct Answer
B. Athens
Explanation
Athens is known as the birthplace of democracy in government. In ancient Greece, Athens was the first city-state to establish a democratic government, where citizens had the right to participate in decision-making and hold public office. This system of government, known as Athenian democracy, laid the foundation for the development of democratic principles and institutions that are still influential today.
19.
The Punic Wars were between what two major powers?
Correct Answer
A. Rome and Carthage
Explanation
The Punic Wars were a series of conflicts fought between Rome and Carthage. These wars were significant because they marked the struggle for dominance in the Mediterranean region. Rome emerged victorious, leading to the decline of Carthage and the rise of Rome as a major power in the ancient world. The wars had far-reaching consequences for both civilizations and shaped the course of history in the region.
20.
King Phillip II sent his Spanish Armada against England in 1588 for which of the following reasons?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
King Phillip II sent his Spanish Armada against England in 1588 for multiple reasons. Firstly, he wanted to retain Spain's supremacy on the seas and assert his dominance over other European powers. Secondly, he aimed to stop English privateers from raiding Spanish ships and disrupting trade routes. Lastly, he sought to bring England back into the Catholic church and eliminate Protestantism. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."
21.
The first to seek new sea routes to the Indies and the Orient were the
Correct Answer
A. Portugese
Explanation
The correct answer is Portuguese. During the Age of Exploration, Portugal was the first European country to actively seek new sea routes to the Indies and the Orient. Portuguese explorers like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan played significant roles in discovering these routes and establishing trade networks with these regions. Their efforts opened up new opportunities for trade and colonization, leading to the expansion of Portuguese influence and the beginning of European dominance in global maritime trade.
22.
With the treaty of Paris in 1763, the war in North America between France and England ended. Who controlled the world's seas at that time?
Correct Answer
C. England
Explanation
After the treaty of Paris in 1763, which ended the war between France and England in North America, England emerged as the dominant power controlling the world's seas. This victory allowed England to expand its colonial empire and establish itself as a global maritime power. The defeat of France in the war also weakened its naval strength and further solidified England's control over the seas. Therefore, England was the country that controlled the world's seas at that time.
23.
After the battle of Salamis of 480 B.C., the great period of peace during which theater, sculpture, writing, and philosophy flourished is known as the
Correct Answer
C. Golden Age of Athens
Explanation
The correct answer is Golden Age of Athens. After the battle of Salamis, Athens experienced a period of prosperity and cultural advancement. This period, known as the Golden Age of Athens, saw the flourishing of arts, theater, sculpture, writing, and philosophy. It was a time of great intellectual and artistic achievements, with notable figures such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle contributing to the development of Western civilization. The Golden Age of Athens is considered a pivotal period in history, marking a time of significant cultural and intellectual growth.
24.
National wealth was measured by the amount of treasure in the royal vaults. The total wealth of the world was limited. To become richer and more powerful, a nation had to make some other nation poorer through capture of its trade and colonies. This was
Correct Answer
C. Mercantile Theory
Explanation
The correct answer is Mercantile Theory. The explanation for this answer is that the Mercantile Theory was a belief system during the 16th to 18th centuries that stated a nation's wealth was determined by the amount of gold and silver it possessed. According to this theory, in order to become richer and more powerful, a nation had to accumulate as much wealth as possible by capturing the trade and colonies of other nations. This theory influenced the economic policies of many European countries during the Age of Exploration and colonization.
25.
In the battle of Lepanto in 1571, Christian forces defeated the
Correct Answer
B. Ottoman Turks
Explanation
In the battle of Lepanto in 1571, the Christian forces emerged victorious against the Ottoman Turks. This battle was a significant naval conflict between the Holy League, a coalition of Christian states, and the Ottoman Empire. The Holy League, consisting of various European powers, aimed to halt the expansion of the Ottoman Empire in the Mediterranean. Their victory at Lepanto marked a turning point in the conflict and effectively curtailed Ottoman naval dominance in the region.
26.
The ability of a nation to defend her own sea communications and to deny the enemy the use of the sea to carry on a war is called
Correct Answer
C. Sea Power
Explanation
Sea Power refers to the ability of a nation to defend its own sea communications and to deny the enemy the use of the sea to carry on a war. It encompasses various aspects such as naval forces, maritime strategy, and the ability to project power and influence at sea. Sea Power is crucial for a nation to protect its interests, maintain security, and establish dominance in maritime domains. It involves not only military capabilities but also diplomatic, economic, and technological factors that contribute to a nation's control and influence over the seas.
27.
Which of the following were English "seadogs"?
Correct Answer
A. Sir Francis Drake, Sir John Hawkins, and Martin Frobisher
Explanation
Sir Francis Drake, Sir John Hawkins, and Martin Frobisher were English "seadogs" because they were all prominent English naval commanders and privateers during the Elizabethan era. They were known for their daring and successful expeditions to raid Spanish ships and colonies, as well as their contributions to English naval power and exploration. These seadogs played a crucial role in defending England against Spanish naval threats and expanding English influence and trade in the New World.
28.
What treaty in 1763 ended the war in North America between France and England?
Correct Answer
B. Treaty of Paris
Explanation
The Treaty of Paris in 1763 ended the war in North America between France and England. This treaty marked the end of the Seven Years' War and resulted in France ceding Canada and all its territories east of the Mississippi River to Britain. It also marked the beginning of British dominance in North America and set the stage for future conflicts between the British and the American colonists.
29.
What group of Europeans became the leaders of Western culture after the Greeks?
Correct Answer
D. Romans
Explanation
After the Greeks, the Romans became the leaders of Western culture. The Roman Empire was known for its vast influence and contributions to various fields such as architecture, law, engineering, and literature. They built a network of roads, aqueducts, and public buildings that showcased their advanced engineering skills. The Romans also developed a legal system that formed the basis for many modern legal systems. Their literature, including works by authors like Virgil and Cicero, had a significant impact on Western literature. Overall, the Romans played a crucial role in shaping Western culture and became the dominant group in Europe after the Greeks.
30.
What Italian state became a great commercial and naval power during the Crusades?
Correct Answer
A. Venice
Explanation
During the Crusades, Venice, an Italian state, emerged as a significant commercial and naval power. Its strategic location on the Adriatic Sea allowed it to establish trade routes with the East, becoming a major center for the exchange of goods and ideas. Venice's powerful navy also enabled it to dominate the Mediterranean and protect its trade interests. Through its participation in the Crusades, Venice gained immense wealth and influence, solidifying its status as a great commercial and naval power during this period.
31.
The "Age of Discovery" was referred to as being a new age of
Correct Answer
C. Sea power
Explanation
During the "Age of Discovery," sea power played a crucial role in the exploration and expansion of nations. It was a period of maritime exploration, colonization, and trade, where powerful naval forces allowed countries to establish dominance over the seas. Sea power facilitated the discovery of new trade routes, the establishment of colonies, and the expansion of economic influence. It also enabled countries to protect their interests and engage in privateering, which involved government-sanctioned piracy to disrupt enemy trade and strengthen their own economies. Therefore, sea power was a defining aspect of the "Age of Discovery."
32.
Who led Maine backwoodsmen in the first American capture of a British ship?
Correct Answer
D. Jeremiah O'Brien
Explanation
Jeremiah O'Brien led Maine backwoodsmen in the first American capture of a British ship. This event occurred during the American Revolutionary War and is known as the Battle of Machias. O'Brien, along with a group of local militiamen, successfully captured the British ship Margaretta in June 1775. This victory boosted American morale and marked an important early success in the war against the British.
33.
Instead of meeting General Burgoyne in Albany in 1777, General Howe made an ill-advised decision to capture which city?
Correct Answer
C. pHiladelpHia
Explanation
During the American Revolutionary War, General Howe made the ill-advised decision to capture Philadelphia instead of meeting General Burgoyne in Albany in 1777. This decision proved to be a strategic mistake for the British because it diverted their forces away from supporting Burgoyne's campaign in the north. By focusing on capturing Philadelphia, Howe failed to effectively coordinate with Burgoyne, leading to his eventual defeat at the Battle of Saratoga. This defeat was a turning point in the war and ultimately led to France's alliance with the American colonies.
34.
Although General Arnold defeated the british at Lake Champlain in 1775, it was not a conventional "victory" (he lost all his ships) the battle benefittede American troops by
Correct Answer
C. Slowing the British advance enough to allow the Americans time to regroup and train troops
Explanation
The correct answer is "Slowing the British advance enough to allow the Americans time to regroup and train troops." Although General Arnold lost all his ships in the battle, the damage inflicted on the British fleet slowed down their advance. This gave the American troops valuable time to regroup and train more soldiers, which ultimately benefited them in the war effort.
35.
What was the major political difference that caused the Southern states to break away from the Union in 1860?
Correct Answer
A. New states were not being admitted into the Union as slave states.
Explanation
The major political difference that caused the Southern states to break away from the Union in 1860 was that new states were not being admitted into the Union as slave states. This was a significant issue for the Southern states as they relied heavily on slave labor for their agricultural economy. The inability to expand slavery into new territories threatened their way of life and led to their decision to secede from the Union.
36.
Admiral Farragut was an outstanding naval commander. What navy did he serve with during the Civil War?
Correct Answer
D. Union Navy
Explanation
Admiral Farragut served with the Union Navy during the Civil War. This can be inferred from the context that he was an outstanding naval commander, and the Union Navy was the naval force of the Union, which fought against the Confederate Navy during the Civil War.
37.
The Union Navy established naval blockades from
Correct Answer
C. Virginia to Texas
Explanation
During the American Civil War, the Union Navy established naval blockades to cut off Confederate supply lines and prevent the South from receiving crucial resources. The correct answer, Virginia to Texas, indicates the extent of the Union Navy's blockades along the Confederate coastline. By controlling the waters from Virginia to Texas, the Union Navy effectively limited the Confederacy's ability to import and export goods, weakening their war effort and isolating them from foreign support.
38.
Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederacy, figured that the Union's blockades would anger at least two major foreign nations that were buying goods from the Confederate States. What were the names of these two major nations?
Correct Answer
C. England and France
Explanation
During the American Civil War, Jefferson Davis, as the President of the Confederacy, believed that the Union's blockades would provoke England and France. These two nations were major buyers of goods from the Confederate States, particularly cotton. Davis hoped that their anger towards the blockades would lead them to provide support to the Confederacy, either diplomatically or militarily.
39.
In the first battle of Bull Run on July 21, 1861, 50,000 troops of both armies fought in northern Virginia not far from Washington D.C. What army won that battle?
Correct Answer
A. Confederate Army
Explanation
In the first battle of Bull Run, the Confederate Army emerged victorious. This battle took place in northern Virginia, close to Washington D.C., and involved 50,000 troops from both armies. The Confederate Army's win marked a significant early victory for the Confederacy during the American Civil War.
40.
In 1862, the Union forces developed river gunboats which were the first ironclad vessels in the United States, In what river valley did these vessels see their first action?
Correct Answer
D. Tennessee and Mississippi River Valleys
Explanation
During the American Civil War, the Union forces developed river gunboats, the first ironclad vessels in the United States. These gunboats saw their first action in the Tennessee and Mississippi River Valleys. This region was strategically significant as it allowed the Union forces to control key waterways, disrupt Confederate supply lines, and support their military operations. The gunboats played a crucial role in the Union's efforts to gain control over the Mississippi River and ultimately divide the Confederacy.
41.
Who commanded the river boat squadron that demolished Fort Henry in February 1862?
Correct Answer
B. Commadore Andrew Foote
Explanation
Commodore Andrew Foote commanded the river boat squadron that demolished Fort Henry in February 1862. Foote was a Union naval officer who played a crucial role in the American Civil War. He led a fleet of ironclad gunboats up the Tennessee River and successfully bombarded Fort Henry, forcing its surrender. Foote's actions contributed to the Union's strategic control of the region and paved the way for further military successes.
42.
Fort Jackson and Fort St. Phillip were established by the Confederates on the Mississippi River to protect the South's largest and most important port city. What is the name of that city?
Correct Answer
C. New Orleans
Explanation
Fort Jackson and Fort St. Phillip were established by the Confederates on the Mississippi River to protect New Orleans, the South's largest and most important port city.
43.
Admiral Farragut's Union fleet moved up the Mississippi River in April 1862, taking heavy fire from Fort Jackson and Fort St. Phillip. As he moved through the midst of the Confederate defensive fleet, his action caused what city on the river to surrender?
Correct Answer
D. New Orleans
Explanation
Admiral Farragut's Union fleet moved up the Mississippi River and faced heavy fire from Fort Jackson and Fort St. Phillip. Despite the Confederate defensive fleet, Farragut's actions led to the surrender of New Orleans.
44.
Before the Union forces left Norfolk, Virginia, early in the war, they were ordered to destroy many of their own vessels to keep them from being captured and used later by the Confederates. One of the vessels that was sunk was raised by the Confederacy was the
Correct Answer
A. CSS Virginia
Explanation
During the early stages of the war, the Union forces in Norfolk, Virginia were instructed to sink their own vessels to prevent them from falling into Confederate hands. The CSS Virginia was one of the vessels that was sunk but later raised by the Confederacy.
45.
The Confederates had designed the CSS Virginia with one purpose in mind. What was their purpose?
Correct Answer
C. To break the Union's blockade
Explanation
The purpose of the CSS Virginia, designed by the Confederates, was to break the Union's blockade. The Confederates aimed to use this ship to challenge and overcome the blockade that the Union had established during the American Civil War. By breaking the blockade, the Confederates hoped to gain a strategic advantage and ensure the flow of supplies and resources to their side.