Mid Year Unit Exam
- 1.
James Polk went to war with Mexico
- A.
To retaliate for the harsh Mexican treatment of Texans.
- B.
To distract Americans from other domestic issues.
- C.
To prevent a Mexican attempt to reacquire Texas.
- D.
To protect the southern border of the United States.
- E.
To force the secession of New Mexico and California.
Correct Answer
E. To force the secession of New Mexico and California.Explanation
James Polk went to war with Mexico to force the secession of New Mexico and California. This can be inferred from the fact that Polk had a strong desire to expand the territory of the United States, and he saw the acquisition of these territories as essential to achieving that goal. Additionally, Polk believed that by provoking a war with Mexico, he could create a situation where these territories would be more likely to break away from Mexican control and join the United States.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which of the following was NOT an essential feature of the factory system?
- A.
The work force being located in one place
- B.
The use of interchangeable parts
- C.
Each product being produced by one worker
- D.
A supervised work force
- E.
Payment of cash wages
Correct Answer
A. The work force being located in one placeExplanation
The factory system was characterized by the use of interchangeable parts, each product being produced by one worker, a supervised work force, and payment of cash wages. However, the work force being located in one place was not an essential feature of the factory system. In fact, the factory system allowed for the concentration of workers in a single location, which increased efficiency and productivity. This allowed for the division of labor and specialization, with workers focusing on specific tasks in the production process.Rate this question:
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- 3.
John Tyler initiated the politics of Manifest Destiny
- A.
To build a base for his reelection in 1844.
- B.
To win the support of his fellow Whigs.
- C.
In hopes of identifying himself with James Monroe.
- D.
To bring together the Whig and Democratic parties.
- E.
With the aid of Henry Clay.
Correct Answer
A. To build a base for his reelection in 1844.Explanation
John Tyler initiated the politics of Manifest Destiny to build a base for his reelection in 1844. This means that Tyler used the idea of Manifest Destiny, which was the belief in the expansion of the United States across the continent, as a political strategy to gain support and secure his reelection in 1844. By promoting the idea of westward expansion and the acquisition of new territories, Tyler aimed to appeal to voters and build a strong base of support for his campaign.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which one of the following was an important premise of Manifest Destiny?
- A.
Population growth required new territories
- B.
God supported American expansion
- C.
The notion of free development
- D.
All of the above
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above". Manifest Destiny was a belief that it was the destiny of the United States to expand its territory from coast to coast. This belief was based on the idea that population growth required new territories, as the growing population needed more land and resources. It was also believed that God supported American expansion, and that the United States had the right to freely develop and spread its democratic ideals. Therefore, all of these premises were important in the ideology of Manifest Destiny.Rate this question:
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- 5.
________, the hero of San Jacinto, became the first president of the Texas Republic.
- A.
Frank Dallas
- B.
Stephen F. Austin
- C.
William Becknell
- D.
W. B. Travis
- E.
Sam Houston
Correct Answer
E. Sam HoustonExplanation
Sam Houston is the correct answer because he was the hero of the Battle of San Jacinto, which was a decisive battle in the Texas Revolution. After the battle, Texas gained independence from Mexico and became the Republic of Texas. As a result, Sam Houston was elected as the first president of the Texas Republic.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The arrival of large numbers of immigrants
- A.
Did not worsen living conditions in the cities.
- B.
Did not contribute measurably to city developments.
- C.
Forced the development of more sanitary waste systems.
- D.
Was a positive development for American cities.
- E.
Worsened the already serious problems of the cities.
Correct Answer
E. Worsened the already serious problems of the cities.Explanation
The correct answer is "worsened the already serious problems of the cities." This is because the arrival of large numbers of immigrants put additional strain on the already struggling cities, exacerbating the existing issues such as overcrowding, poverty, and inadequate infrastructure. The influx of immigrants often led to increased competition for jobs, housing, and resources, further worsening living conditions and social tensions in the cities.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The rallying cry "Fifty-Four Forty or Fight" referred to which desired territory?
- A.
Texas
- B.
Arizona
- C.
California
- D.
Oregon
- E.
New Mexico
Correct Answer
D. OregonExplanation
The rallying cry "Fifty-Four Forty or Fight" referred to the desired territory of Oregon. This slogan was used during the 1844 presidential campaign by James K. Polk, who advocated for the United States to claim the entire Oregon Country up to the 54°40' north latitude line, which included present-day Oregon, Washington, and parts of British Columbia. It represented the American desire for expansion and control over the region, which was disputed with Great Britain. Eventually, a compromise was reached, and the border was set at the 49th parallel, establishing the current boundary between the United States and Canada.Rate this question:
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- 8.
For the American economy, railroads
- A.
Had little effect.
- B.
Were a boom only for agricultural interests.
- C.
Took a few years to become an important component.
- D.
Had an enormous effect.
- E.
Affected only those segments related to transportation.
Correct Answer
D. Had an enormous effect.Explanation
The correct answer is "had an enormous effect." This suggests that railroads had a significant impact on the American economy. It implies that railroads played a crucial role in shaping and transforming various aspects of the economy, such as transportation, trade, and industrialization. The phrase "enormous effect" indicates that railroads had a substantial and far-reaching influence on the economic development of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following was NOT a characteristic of the Young America movement?
- A.
A weak foreign policy
- B.
Territorial policy
- C.
Technological progress
- D.
A celebration of American virtue
- E.
Economic expansion and growth
Correct Answer
A. A weak foreign policyExplanation
The Young America movement was characterized by territorial policy, technological progress, a celebration of American virtue, and economic expansion and growth. However, it did not advocate for a weak foreign policy. This means that the movement believed in a strong and assertive approach towards foreign relations, rather than being passive or submissive.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Manifest Destiny was based, in part, on
- A.
The desire for new territory for slavery.
- B.
Simple greed.
- C.
The political needs of the Democratic Party.
- D.
The desire to drive Spain out of North America.
- E.
The belief that God was on the side of American expansionism.
Correct Answer
E. The belief that God was on the side of American expansionism.Explanation
Manifest Destiny was a belief held by many Americans in the 19th century that it was their divine mission to expand and spread American culture and values across the continent. This belief was rooted in the idea that God was on their side, guiding and supporting their expansionist goals. It was seen as a moral and religious duty to expand westward and bring American civilization to the frontier. This belief in divine support and guidance played a significant role in justifying and motivating American territorial expansion, making it the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The increasing employment of immigrants in the 1840s and 1850s
- A.
Tended to force wages up.
- B.
Had little effect on worker organization.
- C.
Had little effect on wages.
- D.
Made it difficult to organize industrial workers.
- E.
Encouraged immigrants to assimilate as soon as possible in hopes of getting better paying positions.
Correct Answer
D. Made it difficult to organize industrial workers.Explanation
The increasing employment of immigrants in the 1840s and 1850s made it difficult to organize industrial workers. With a large influx of immigrants entering the workforce, there was a diverse and fragmented labor force, which hindered the formation of cohesive worker organizations. Immigrants often faced language barriers, cultural differences, and a lack of familiarity with labor rights and organization tactics, making it challenging to unite and advocate for better working conditions and wages. As a result, the presence of immigrants in the workforce had a limited impact on worker organization during this time period.Rate this question:
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- 12.
In ________, Herman Melville produced a novel, original in form and conception, to fulfill the demand of Young Americans for a New Literature.
- A.
Tristram Shandy
- B.
Moby Dick
- C.
Ulysses
- D.
Uncle Tom's Cabin
- E.
The Scarlet Letter
Correct Answer
B. Moby DickExplanation
Herman Melville produced the novel Moby Dick to fulfill the demand of Young Americans for a New Literature.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The majority of immigrants became
- A.
Farmers.
- B.
Wage workers in factories.
- C.
Businessmen.
- D.
Sharecroppers.
- E.
Skilled craftsmen.
Correct Answer
B. Wage workers in factories.Explanation
The correct answer is "wage workers in factories." This is because during the time period when immigrants were arriving in large numbers, there was a significant increase in industrialization in the United States. As a result, many immigrants found employment in factories, working for wages rather than pursuing careers in farming, business, or skilled craftsmanship. This shift towards factory work was driven by the demand for labor in the growing industrial sector.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Characteristic of the change in labor in the 1830s and 1840s was
- A.
An increase in the proportion of women employed.
- B.
The decline in working conditions.
- C.
An overall improvement in working conditions.
- D.
That fewer family members had to work to support the family unit.
- E.
The decline in child labor.
Correct Answer
B. The decline in working conditions.Explanation
During the 1830s and 1840s, there was a characteristic change in labor, which was the decline in working conditions. This implies that the conditions under which people worked worsened during this period. It suggests that workers faced harsher conditions, such as longer working hours, lower wages, and unsafe working environments. This change in labor conditions may have been a result of industrialization and the rise of factories, where workers were often subjected to exploitative practices by their employers.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The ________ immigrants to the United States settled in the Northeast and faced prejudice.
- A.
Italian
- B.
Chinese
- C.
Chinese
- D.
Irish
- E.
German
Correct Answer
D. IrishExplanation
The Irish immigrants to the United States settled in the Northeast and faced prejudice. This is because during the mid-19th century, a large number of Irish people migrated to the United States due to the Great Famine in Ireland. They settled primarily in cities like Boston and New York, where they faced discrimination and prejudice from the established Anglo-American population. The Irish immigrants were often seen as inferior and faced harsh living conditions, low wages, and limited job opportunities.Rate this question:
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- 16.
For former rural folk, the transition to industrial wage labor
- A.
Represented a step up on the social scale.
- B.
Allowed most of them to realize the American dream.
- C.
Was not made easily.
- D.
Was facilitated by their past work habits.
- E.
Raised few serious problems.
Correct Answer
C. Was not made easily.Explanation
The correct answer is "was not made easily." This suggests that the transition from being rural folk to industrial wage labor was not a smooth or effortless process. It implies that there were challenges or difficulties involved in making this transition, indicating that it required effort, adjustment, or adaptation on the part of the former rural folk.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The major factor that pushed the Irish immigrant to the United States in the 1840s and 1850s was
- A.
The decline in the number of jobs in Ireland.
- B.
The oppression of the British government.
- C.
The overpopulation of Ireland.
- D.
The great potato famine.
- E.
The persecution of Catholics.
Correct Answer
D. The great potato famine.Explanation
The correct answer is the great potato famine. During the 1840s and 1850s, Ireland experienced a devastating potato blight, which led to the failure of potato crops, a staple food for the Irish population. This famine resulted in widespread hunger, poverty, and death, forcing many Irish people to emigrate in search of better opportunities and escape the dire conditions in their homeland. The potato famine was a significant factor that pushed Irish immigrants to seek a new life in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 18.
In 1830, California, Texas, and New Mexico were under the sovereignty of
- A.
France.
- B.
The United States.
- C.
Mexico.
- D.
Great Britain.
- E.
Spain.
Correct Answer
C. Mexico.Explanation
In 1830, California, Texas, and New Mexico were under the sovereignty of Mexico. This is because during that time, these territories were part of the Mexican territory, which gained independence from Spain in 1821. Mexico had control over these regions until the Mexican-American War in the 1840s, when they were eventually ceded to the United States.Rate this question:
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- 19.
One of the most important effects of the American industrial revolution was
- A.
Unionization.
- B.
A great wave of immigration.
- C.
A decline in the need for labor.
- D.
The automation of factories.
- E.
The growth of socialism.
Correct Answer
B. A great wave of immigration.Explanation
The correct answer is a great wave of immigration. The American industrial revolution in the late 19th and early 20th centuries attracted a large number of immigrants from various countries, seeking employment opportunities in the growing industries. This influx of immigrants played a significant role in the expansion of the American workforce and the overall growth of the economy. The immigrants brought diverse skills and labor, contributing to the industrialization and development of the nation.Rate this question:
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- 20.
California in the 1830s and 1840s was controlled by
- A.
The United States.
- B.
Mexico.
- C.
Spain.
- D.
Canada.
- E.
Great Britain.
Correct Answer
B. Mexico.Explanation
During the 1830s and 1840s, California was under the control of Mexico. This was a period when Mexico had gained independence from Spain and established its own government. California was part of Mexico's territory, known as Alta California, during this time. It was not until the Mexican-American War in the late 1840s that California came under the control of the United States. Therefore, the correct answer is Mexico.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Mormon community, established in Utah,
- A.
Barely survived in the desert lands.
- B.
Was as disorderly as other frontier communities.
- C.
Failed as a permanent settlement.
- D.
Survived in hiding for years.
- E.
Was a model of a planned and efficient settlement.
Correct Answer
E. Was a model of a planned and efficient settlement.Explanation
The correct answer is "was a model of a planned and efficient settlement." This is because the sentence states that the Mormon community, established in Utah, was a model of a planned and efficient settlement. This suggests that the community was well-organized and successful in establishing a settlement in the desert lands of Utah.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Most German immigrants came to the United States to escape
- A.
Political oppression.
- B.
Hard times.
- C.
European wars.
- D.
Famine.
- E.
Religious persecution.
Correct Answer
B. Hard times.Explanation
Many German immigrants came to the United States to escape difficult economic conditions and poverty, commonly referred to as "hard times." Germany experienced economic hardships during the 19th century, including high unemployment rates, inflation, and limited opportunities for social mobility. These challenging circumstances pushed many Germans to seek better economic prospects in the United States, where they hoped to find employment and improve their living conditions.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The leader of the Mormon trek to Utah was
- A.
Josiah Deseret.
- B.
Moses Austin.
- C.
John C. Fremont.
- D.
Brigham Young.
- E.
Joseph Smith.
Correct Answer
E. Joseph Smith.Explanation
The correct answer is Joseph Smith. Joseph Smith was the founder and leader of the Mormon religion. He led the Mormon trek to Utah, known as the Mormon pioneers, in the mid-19th century. Smith played a crucial role in the establishment of the Mormon settlement in Utah, which eventually became the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His leadership and vision were instrumental in the successful migration of thousands of Mormons to Utah, where they sought religious freedom and a new home.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of the following was NOT Mexican territory in 1825?
- A.
Arizona
- B.
California
- C.
Texas
- D.
Oregon
- E.
New Mexico
Correct Answer
D. OregonExplanation
Oregon was not Mexican territory in 1825. In 1819, the Adams-OnÃs Treaty was signed between the United States and Spain, which established the boundary between New Spain (including Mexico) and the United States. According to this treaty, the southern boundary of Oregon was set at the 42nd parallel, making it part of the United States. Therefore, Oregon was not under Mexican control in 1825.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Opposition to Tyler's plan for the annexation of Texas came, primarily, from
- A.
Northern antislavery Whigs.
- B.
Southern agricultural interests.
- C.
New England merchants.
- D.
Mexican Catholics.
- E.
Great Britain.
Correct Answer
A. Northern antislavery Whigs.Explanation
The opposition to Tyler's plan for the annexation of Texas primarily came from northern antislavery Whigs. This can be inferred from the context of the question, as the Whigs were known for their opposition to slavery. Given that Texas was a slave-holding territory, it is logical to assume that northern antislavery Whigs would oppose its annexation. The other options, such as southern agricultural interests, New England merchants, Mexican Catholics, and Great Britain, do not align with the historical context and do not have a direct connection to the issue of annexation.Rate this question:
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- 26.
An important result of the changing character of labor was
- A.
An upsurge of labor militancy.
- B.
More emphasis on skilled labor.
- C.
An increasing reliance on religion for comfort.
- D.
The paternalistic employer-employee relationship.
- E.
Greater cooperation between employer and employee.
Correct Answer
A. An upsurge of labor militancy.Explanation
The changing character of labor resulted in an upsurge of labor militancy. This means that as the nature of labor changed, there was a significant increase in labor activism and resistance. Workers became more assertive and organized in demanding their rights and better working conditions. This can be seen as a response to the exploitation and unfair treatment they faced in the changing labor landscape.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Shippers did not immediately shift to the railroads because
- A.
They were not convinced of their reliability.
- B.
They distrusted the safety of the steam engine.
- C.
They received financial incentives to stay with canal routes.
- D.
Canal boats were cheaper.
- E.
They were satisfied with the service they were getting using the canals.
Correct Answer
C. They received financial incentives to stay with canal routes.Explanation
The correct answer is that shippers received financial incentives to stay with canal routes. This means that they were given monetary benefits or rewards to continue using the canals for transportation instead of shifting to railroads. This likely made it more economically advantageous for shippers to stick with the canals rather than taking the risk of switching to the railroads.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Between the 1830s and 1840s, most of the immigrants to the United States came from
- A.
China.
- B.
Eastern Europe.
- C.
The Far East.
- D.
Latin America.
- E.
Western Europe.
Correct Answer
E. Western Europe.Explanation
During the 1830s and 1840s, the majority of immigrants to the United States came from Western Europe. This period is often referred to as the "Old Immigration" era, and it saw a significant influx of immigrants from countries such as Ireland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. These immigrants were primarily driven by economic opportunities and escaping political unrest in their home countries. The Chinese and Eastern European immigration waves occurred later in the 19th and early 20th centuries, while Latin American and Far East immigration became more prominent in the 20th century.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The inventor of the mechanical reaper was
- A.
Robert Lowell.
- B.
Henry Bessemer.
- C.
Charles Goodyear.
- D.
Cyrus McCormick.
- E.
John Deere.
Correct Answer
D. Cyrus McCormick.Explanation
Cyrus McCormick is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the inventor of the mechanical reaper. The mechanical reaper revolutionized agriculture by automating the process of harvesting crops, significantly increasing efficiency and productivity. McCormick's invention had a profound impact on the agricultural industry, leading to increased food production and helping to fuel the growth of the United States as an agricultural powerhouse.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The founder of the Mormon Church was
- A.
Lee Roberts.
- B.
Brigham Young.
- C.
Josiah Deseret.
- D.
Sam Houston.
- E.
Joseph Smith.
Correct Answer
E. Joseph Smith.Explanation
Joseph Smith is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the founder of the Mormon Church. He was a religious leader and the first prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Smith claimed to have had a vision in which he was visited by God and Jesus Christ, leading to the establishment of the church in 1830. He played a crucial role in translating the Book of Mormon, which is considered a sacred text by Mormons. Smith's teachings and leadership laid the foundation for the growth and development of the Mormon Church.Rate this question:
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- 31.
German immigrants
- A.
Could not be assimilated easily into American society.
- B.
Suffered less prejudice than the Irish.
- C.
Had a difficult time learning English.
- D.
Possessed few agricultural or other skills.
- E.
Suffered more prejudice than the Irish.
Correct Answer
B. Suffered less prejudice than the Irish.Explanation
The given explanation is that German immigrants suffered less prejudice than the Irish. This suggests that the Irish immigrants faced more discrimination and hostility compared to the German immigrants. The reason for this could be attributed to various factors such as cultural differences, religious beliefs, or historical context. However, without further information, it is difficult to determine the specific reasons for the difference in prejudice experienced by these two groups.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Who was president of the United States when the Mexican War began?
- A.
John Tyler
- B.
Zachary Taylor
- C.
James K. Polk
- D.
John C. Calhoun
- E.
William Henry Harrison
Correct Answer
C. James K. PolkExplanation
James K. Polk was the president of the United States when the Mexican War began. He served as the 11th president from 1845 to 1849. Polk was a strong advocate for westward expansion and the annexation of Texas, which ultimately led to the Mexican-American War. His presidency was marked by his aggressive foreign policy and his successful acquisition of vast territories including California, New Mexico, and parts of Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah through the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ended the war.Rate this question:
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- 33.
In the presidential election of 1844,
- A.
James Polk identified himself with the most popular cause of the times.
- B.
James Polk seemed to exemplify the Young America movement.
- C.
Martin Van Buren supported the annexation of Texas.
- D.
Henry Clay actively campaigned against annexation.
- E.
James Polk received a mandate to implement his campaign promises.
Correct Answer
A. James Polk identified himself with the most popular cause of the times.Explanation
In the presidential election of 1844, James Polk identified himself with the most popular cause of the times. This suggests that Polk aligned himself with a cause that was widely supported and resonated with the majority of voters. By doing so, he was able to connect with the electorate and gain their support, ultimately leading to his victory in the election.Rate this question:
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- 34.
The transformation of the American economy in the 1840s and 1850s was primarily the result of
- A.
New agricultural technology.
- B.
The steam engine.
- C.
The railroad.
- D.
The canal systems.
- E.
New banking systems.
Correct Answer
C. The railroad.Explanation
The transformation of the American economy in the 1840s and 1850s was primarily the result of the railroad. The railroad system expanded rapidly during this time period, connecting different regions of the country and facilitating the transportation of goods and people. This led to increased trade, economic growth, and the development of new industries. The railroad also played a crucial role in westward expansion, allowing for the settlement of new territories and the extraction of valuable resources. Overall, the railroad revolutionized the American economy by improving transportation, promoting commerce, and stimulating economic development.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Local and state governments in the United States
- A.
Expected the federal government to sponsor railroad expansion.
- B.
Had little interest in railroads.
- C.
Were an important source of funding for railroads.
- D.
Wanted to own the railroads themselves.
- E.
Originally opposed railroad expansion.
Correct Answer
C. Were an important source of funding for railroads.Explanation
Local and state governments in the United States were an important source of funding for railroads. This means that they provided financial support for the expansion and development of the railroad system. It implies that these governments recognized the significance of railroads and were willing to invest in their growth. This support from the government was crucial for the expansion of the railroad network across the country.Rate this question:
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- 36.
The growth of American industry in the 1830s and 1840s was NOT influenced by
- A.
The development of mass production.
- B.
The use of interchangeable parts.
- C.
The discovery of new natural resources.
- D.
The transition to a factory setting.
- E.
The payment of cash wages to workers.
Correct Answer
E. The payment of cash wages to workers.Explanation
The growth of American industry in the 1830s and 1840s was not influenced by the payment of cash wages to workers. This answer can be inferred from the other options provided. The development of mass production, the use of interchangeable parts, the discovery of new natural resources, and the transition to a factory setting were all factors that contributed to the growth of American industry during this time period. However, the payment of cash wages to workers was not a significant factor in influencing this growth.Rate this question:
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- 37.
The evidence that shows that economics was a major motivation for immigration was found in the
- A.
Peaks in immigration and the demand for labor.
- B.
Wages paid immigrants.
- C.
Kinds of labor needed in the United States.
- D.
Forms that immigrants filled out when they reached Ellis Island.
- E.
Occupations of the immigrants.
Correct Answer
A. Peaks in immigration and the demand for labor.Explanation
The correct answer is "peaks in immigration and the demand for labor" because the evidence of economics being a major motivation for immigration can be seen in the correlation between the increase in immigration and the need for labor. When there is a high demand for labor in a country, it attracts immigrants who are seeking job opportunities and better wages. Therefore, the peaks in immigration can be seen as a direct result of the economic factors driving individuals to migrate.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The majority of Irish immigrants settled in the
- A.
Northeast.
- B.
South.
- C.
Far West.
- D.
Gulf Coast region.
- E.
Midwest.
Correct Answer
A. Northeast.Explanation
The majority of Irish immigrants settled in the Northeast because this region had the largest cities, such as New York and Boston, which offered job opportunities in industries like manufacturing and construction. Additionally, the Northeast had established Irish communities that provided support networks and cultural familiarity for the new immigrants. The Irish also faced discrimination and prejudice, and many found solace and support in the existing Irish communities in the Northeast.Rate this question:
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- 39.
California in the 1820s and 1830s
- A.
Was controlled by wealthy rancheros.
- B.
Saw a harmonious relationship between the rancheros and the Native Americans.
- C.
Had a dramatic increase in its Native American population.
- D.
Was the most populated territory held by Mexico.
- E.
Was already a mecca for entertainers.
Correct Answer
A. Was controlled by wealthy rancheros.Explanation
In the 1820s and 1830s, California was under the control of wealthy rancheros. This means that these wealthy landowners had significant power and influence over the territory during this time period. They likely owned large ranches and had control over the resources and economy of the region. Their control would have had a significant impact on the social, political, and economic dynamics of California during this period.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Which one of the following states actually existed for ten years as an independent nation before its admission to the Union?
- A.
New Mexico
- B.
Arizona
- C.
Texas
- D.
California
- E.
Colorado
Correct Answer
B. ArizonaExplanation
Arizona is the correct answer because it existed as an independent nation called the "Republic of Arizona" from 1861 to 1872 before it was admitted to the Union as a state. During this period, Arizona declared its independence from the United States during the American Civil War and had its own government and flag.Rate this question:
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- 41.
The winner of the election of 1844 was
- A.
Zachary Taylor.
- B.
James K. Polk.
- C.
John Tyler.
- D.
William Henry Harrison.
- E.
Martin Van Buren.
Correct Answer
B. James K. Polk.Explanation
James K. Polk was the winner of the election of 1844. He defeated his opponents, including Zachary Taylor, John Tyler, William Henry Harrison, and Martin Van Buren, to become the 11th President of the United States. Polk's victory in the election is significant because it marked the first time that a candidate from the Democratic Party won the presidency after two consecutive Whig Party administrations. Polk's presidency was notable for his successful expansionist policies, which resulted in the acquisition of vast territories, including California, Oregon, and New Mexico.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The most important overland route for American migration to the far West was
- A.
The Oregon Trail.
- B.
The Chisholm Trail.
- C.
The California Trail.
- D.
The Sante Fe Trail.
- E.
The Cumberland Road.
Correct Answer
A. The Oregon Trail.Explanation
The Oregon Trail was the most important overland route for American migration to the far West. It was a 2,000-mile long trail that stretched from Missouri to Oregon and was used by thousands of pioneers in the 19th century. The trail provided a direct route to the fertile lands of the Pacific Northwest and played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States. The other options, such as the Chisholm Trail, California Trail, Sante Fe Trail, and Cumberland Road, were also important routes, but they were primarily used for different purposes like cattle drives, gold rush migration, trade, and transportation, respectively.Rate this question:
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- 43.
The American population moved westward in the 1830s and 1840s for all of the following reasons, EXCEPT
- A.
Economic opportunity.
- B.
A sense of adventure.
- C.
Religious freedom.
- D.
Loyalty to Mexico and Great Britain.
- E.
Fertile land.
Correct Answer
D. Loyalty to Mexico and Great Britain.Explanation
During the 1830s and 1840s, the American population moved westward due to various reasons. Economic opportunity was one of the main driving factors, as people sought new land and resources to build their livelihoods. A sense of adventure also motivated individuals to explore and settle in new territories. Religious freedom played a significant role, as people sought to establish communities where they could freely practice their faith. Fertile land was another crucial factor, as agricultural opportunities were abundant in the West. However, loyalty to Mexico and Great Britain did not drive the westward movement, as tensions and conflicts existed between these countries and the expanding United States.Rate this question:
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- 44.
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
- A.
Led to political harmony between the Whigs and the Democrats.
- B.
Allowed the United States access to trade with Asian nations.
- C.
Provided the United States with all the territory conquered from Mexico.
- D.
Was never ratified.
- E.
Provided the opportunity for additional expansion by the United States.
Correct Answer
C. Provided the United States with all the territory conquered from Mexico.Explanation
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo provided the United States with all the territory conquered from Mexico. This treaty, signed in 1848, ended the Mexican-American War and resulted in Mexico ceding a significant amount of land to the United States, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Texas. This acquisition of territory greatly expanded the United States' reach and influence in North America.Rate this question:
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- 45.
The most plausible reason for the Texas Revolution was
- A.
The discovery of fertile cottonlands in east Texas.
- B.
The inability of Texans to settle their land disputes.
- C.
The unwillingness of Anglo-Americans to accept Mexican rule.
- D.
The harsh oppression of the Catholic Church.
- E.
The Texans' desire to create an independent nation.
Correct Answer
C. The unwillingness of Anglo-Americans to accept Mexican rule.Explanation
The most plausible reason for the Texas Revolution was the unwillingness of Anglo-Americans to accept Mexican rule. This answer is supported by historical evidence, as tensions between the Anglo-American settlers and the Mexican government had been growing for years. The Mexican government's attempts to enforce its authority over Texas, including the implementation of policies that clashed with the settlers' desires and the centralization of power, led to increased resistance. The Texan settlers, fueled by a desire for self-governance and autonomy, ultimately rebelled against Mexican rule, leading to the Texas Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 46.
The Webster-Ashburton Treaty of 1842 settled a boundary dispute between ________ over ________.
- A.
The United States and Mexico; Arizona and Sonora
- B.
England and the United States; British Honduras
- C.
England and the United States; the Virgin Islands
- D.
The United States and Spain; Cuba and Puerto Rico
- E.
The United States and Canada; Maine and New Brunswick
Correct Answer
E. The United States and Canada; Maine and New BrunswickExplanation
The Webster-Ashburton Treaty of 1842 settled a boundary dispute between the United States and Canada over Maine and New Brunswick.Rate this question:
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- 47.
The United States expected the Mexican War
- A.
Would possibly involve a confrontation with Great Britain.
- B.
Would win widespread popular support.
- C.
To be of a relatively short duration.
- D.
Would be costly but worth it.
- E.
To be a long and costly affair.
Correct Answer
C. To be of a relatively short duration.Explanation
The expectation that the Mexican War would be of a relatively short duration suggests that the United States believed the conflict would not drag on for an extended period. This implies that they anticipated a swift victory or resolution to the war, possibly due to their military strength or strategic advantages. This expectation also implies that the United States did not foresee the need for a prolonged and costly involvement in the war.Rate this question:
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- 48.
One of the first to use the phrase "Young America" was
- A.
Ralph Waldo Emerson.
- B.
Nathaniel Hawthorne.
- C.
Herman Melville.
- D.
Henry David Thoreau.
- E.
Walt Whitman.
Correct Answer
A. Ralph Waldo Emerson.Explanation
Ralph Waldo Emerson was one of the first to use the phrase "Young America." He was an American essayist, poet, and philosopher who played a significant role in the Transcendentalist movement. Emerson believed in the power of individualism and self-reliance, and his writings often focused on these themes. His use of the phrase "Young America" reflected his belief in the potential of the younger generation to shape the future of the country.Rate this question:
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- 49.
The possibility of war with Great Britain over Oregon was increased by
- A.
The actions of American agents in the territory.
- B.
James Polk's aggressive foreign policy.
- C.
American economic interests.
- D.
Direct pleas to Polk from the people who were living in Oregon.
- E.
The actions of Great Britain.
Correct Answer
B. James Polk's aggressive foreign policy.Explanation
James Polk's aggressive foreign policy increased the possibility of war with Great Britain over Oregon. Polk was determined to annex Oregon and expand American territory, which put the US at odds with Great Britain who also claimed the territory. Polk's aggressive stance and refusal to compromise escalated tensions and made war more likely.Rate this question:
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- 50.
Which of the following Mexican policies irritated the Anglo-American settlers of Texas in the early 1830s?
- A.
The dominance of Protestant churches in Mexico
- B.
Mexico's protection of the institution of slavery
- C.
The refusal of the Mexican government to recognize Anglo land boundaries
- D.
All of the above
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
E. None of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "none of the above." This means that none of the mentioned Mexican policies irritated the Anglo-American settlers of Texas in the early 1830s.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Jan 16, 2012Quiz Created by
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