National States - The Traditional Structure
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The boom spread of democracies accelerated during the last few decades.
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True
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False
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About This Quiz
Explore the foundational aspects of national states in 'National States - The Traditional Structure'. This quiz assesses understanding of state characteristics, sovereignty, boundary issues, and governmental forms, essential for students of political science and international relations.
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- 2.
The Dalai Lama is a theocratic leader.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Dalai Lama is considered a theocratic leader because he holds both political and religious authority in Tibetan Buddhism. He is believed to be the reincarnation of the previous Dalai Lama and is revered as the spiritual leader of Tibet. The Dalai Lama has historically played a central role in the governance and administration of Tibet, combining both religious and political responsibilities. His position as theocratic leader gives him significant influence over the religious and social affairs of the Tibetan people.Rate this question:
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- 3.
A state may not always have a government.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
It is possible for a state to not have a government in certain situations. This can occur during times of political instability, such as during a revolution or a collapse of the existing government. Additionally, in some cases, a state may be under foreign occupation or control, resulting in the absence of a government. Therefore, it is true that a state may not always have a government.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following is not a characteristic of states?
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Sovereignty
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Territory
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Universal suffrage
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Diplomatic recognition
Correct Answer
A. Universal suffrageExplanation
Universal suffrage is not a characteristic of states. Universal suffrage refers to the right of all adult citizens to vote in elections, regardless of their social or economic status. While many states do have universal suffrage as a characteristic, it is not a defining characteristic of states in general. States can exist without universal suffrage, as there are various forms of government and voting systems that may be in place.Rate this question:
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- 5.
A state may not always have a government.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
This statement is true because a state can exist without a government. A state refers to a defined territory with a population and a set of laws, while a government is the system or group of people who have the authority to govern and make decisions on behalf of the state. In some cases, a state may be in a period of transition or experiencing a breakdown of government, resulting in a situation where there is no functioning government in place. Additionally, there are instances where a state may be under occupation or control by another entity, leading to the absence of a government.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Theocracy, monarchism, communism, and fascism are all examples of
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Democratic governance.
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Corporatist governance.
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Authoritarian governance.
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Federal governance.
Correct Answer
A. Authoritarian governance.Explanation
Theocracy, monarchism, communism, and fascism are all examples of authoritarian governance because in each of these systems, power is concentrated in the hands of a single individual or a small group of individuals who have absolute control over the government and make decisions without the input or consent of the people. These systems often suppress dissent, limit individual freedoms, and prioritize the interests of the ruling elite over the rights and well-being of the general population.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following is the defining feature of a theocracy?
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An unwritten constitution
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A powerful monarch
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Regular elections
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A spiritual leader
Correct Answer
A. A spiritual leaderExplanation
A theocracy is a form of government where religious leaders hold the highest authority and govern in the name of a deity or religious doctrine. The defining feature of a theocracy is the presence of a spiritual leader who acts as the ultimate authority and guides the governance of the state based on religious principles. This differs from other forms of government where power may be held by a monarch, elected officials, or based on a written constitution.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The wealthier a country is, the more likely it is to be a(n)
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Autocracy
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Democracy
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Theocracy
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Monarchy
Correct Answer
A. DemocracyExplanation
The wealthier a country is, the more likely it is to be a democracy because wealthier countries tend to have higher levels of education, infrastructure, and access to information. These factors contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry, which is essential for a functioning democracy. Additionally, wealthier countries often have stronger institutions and systems in place to protect individual rights and ensure fair elections. This creates an environment that is conducive to democratic governance.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The most important political characteristic of a state is __________________
Correct Answer
sovereigntyExplanation
Sovereignty is the most important political characteristic of a state because it refers to the state's ability to govern itself independently without interference from external powers. It signifies the state's authority and control over its territory, people, and decision-making processes. Sovereignty is essential for a state to exercise its power, establish laws, and maintain order within its borders. Without sovereignty, a state would be subject to the influence and control of other entities, compromising its autonomy and ability to act in its own interests.Rate this question:
- 10.
According to the text, economic development is closely linked to
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Democracy
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Theocracy
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Communism
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Fascism
Correct Answer
A. DemocracyExplanation
According to the text, economic development is closely linked to democracy. This suggests that countries with democratic systems tend to have better economic growth and prosperity compared to countries with other forms of government. Democracy allows for political stability, protection of property rights, and a conducive environment for entrepreneurship and innovation, which are essential for economic development. Additionally, democratic systems often prioritize policies that promote social welfare and equitable distribution of resources, further contributing to economic progress.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Often, one of the characteristics found in a fascist political platform is
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trade liberalization.
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Xenophobic, anti-immigrant policies.
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Strong leftist policies.
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support for individual rights.
Correct Answer
A. Xenophobic, anti-immigrant policies.Explanation
Fascism is an authoritarian political ideology that promotes extreme nationalism and seeks to create a centralized autocratic government. One of the key characteristics of fascism is its xenophobic and anti-immigrant policies. Fascist regimes often promote the idea of a pure and homogeneous nation, rejecting diversity and promoting hostility towards foreigners and immigrants. These policies aim to protect the perceived national identity and maintain a sense of superiority. Trade liberalization, strong leftist policies, and support for individual rights are not typically associated with fascist political platforms.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which country maintains a monarchical form of government?
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Great Britain
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Lebanon
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Netherlands
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Saudi Arabia
Correct Answer
A. Saudi ArabiaExplanation
Saudi Arabia maintains a monarchical form of government. This means that the country is ruled by a monarch, who holds the highest authority and power. In Saudi Arabia, the monarch is the King, and the government operates under a system known as absolute monarchy, where the King has complete control over the government and the country's affairs. The King is both the head of state and the head of government, making all major decisions and appointing key officials.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A state has sovereignty when it
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Has a territory.
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Has an internal organization.
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Does not recognize as legitimate any higher authority.
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Has independence.
Correct Answer
A. Does not recognize as legitimate any higher authority.Explanation
The correct answer is "does not recognize as legitimate any higher authority." This is because sovereignty refers to the supreme power or authority that a state has over its own affairs, without being subject to any external or higher authority. By not recognizing any higher authority as legitimate, a state asserts its independence and autonomy in making decisions and governing its territory.Rate this question:
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- 14.
According to some, which state does not have physical boundaries?
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Albania
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Bosnia-Herzegovina
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The Holy See
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Palestine
Correct Answer
A. PalestineExplanation
Palestine is considered by some to not have physical boundaries because its borders are disputed and not universally recognized. The territory of Palestine is subject to ongoing conflicts and negotiations, resulting in the absence of clear and internationally accepted borders. This lack of physical boundaries contributes to the complexity and volatility of the situation in Palestine.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following is a component of fascism?
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A dependence on rationality and a reliance on reason to govern
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A rejection of the rights of individuals in favor of the view that people are "workers" in the corporatist state
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A rejection of institutions such as the church, nation, and military
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Gearing all economic activity to support the individual
Correct Answer
A. A rejection of the rights of individuals in favor of the view that people are "workers" in the corporatist stateExplanation
Fascism is characterized by a rejection of the rights of individuals in favor of the view that people are "workers" in the corporatist state. This means that individual rights and freedoms are subordinated to the interests and goals of the state. In a fascist system, the state prioritizes the collective over the individual, emphasizing the importance of loyalty, obedience, and sacrifice for the nation. This rejection of individual rights is a key component of fascism, distinguishing it from other political ideologies that prioritize individual liberties and freedoms.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Democratic peace theory says that democracies
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Never go to war.
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Don't go to war with other democracies.
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Will only go to war with other democracies.
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Are the least likely form of government to go to war.
Correct Answer
A. Don't go to war with other democracies.Explanation
The correct answer is "don't go to war with other democracies." This answer aligns with the democratic peace theory, which suggests that democracies are less likely to engage in war with each other. This theory is based on the idea that democratic countries tend to have shared values, institutions, and mechanisms for conflict resolution, which promote peaceful relations between them. Therefore, according to this theory, democracies are more inclined to resolve their disputes through diplomatic means rather than resorting to armed conflict.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The United States is a member of all of the following IGOs except the
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United Nations.
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World Trade Organization.
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International Criminal Court.
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North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
Correct Answer
A. International Criminal Court.Explanation
The United States is a member of the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. However, it is not a member of the International Criminal Court. The United States has not ratified the Rome Statute, which is the treaty that established the International Criminal Court, and therefore it is not a member of this IGO.Rate this question:
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- 18.
All authoritarian forms of government can be characterized as having
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Military rule.
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An all-powerful leader.
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Participation based on ethnicity.
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Little or no popular participation.
Correct Answer
A. Little or no popular participation.Explanation
Authoritarian forms of government are known for their lack of popular participation, as they typically concentrate power in the hands of a single ruler or a small group of individuals. These governments often suppress dissent, limit civil liberties, and restrict political freedoms, leading to limited or no involvement of the general population in decision-making processes. This absence of popular participation distinguishes authoritarian governments from democratic systems, where citizens have the opportunity to actively participate in governance through elections, public debate, and other forms of political engagement.Rate this question:
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- 19.
All of the following women have led their countries to victory in war except
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Indira Gandhi of India.
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Mary Robinson of Ireland.
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Golda Meir of Israel.
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Margaret Thatcher of Great Britain.
Correct Answer
A. Mary Robinson of Ireland.Explanation
Mary Robinson of Ireland is the only woman listed who did not lead her country to victory in war. Indira Gandhi led India to victory in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Golda Meir led Israel during the Yom Kippur War in 1973. Margaret Thatcher led Great Britain during the Falklands War in 1982. Therefore, Mary Robinson is the exception as she did not lead Ireland to victory in any war.Rate this question:
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- 20.
When a state's population grants it the authority to make rules and to govern, the state has
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Sovereignty
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Legitimacy
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Nationhood
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Popularity
Correct Answer
A. LegitimacyExplanation
Legitimacy refers to the rightful authority and acceptance of a government by its population. When a state's population grants it the authority to make rules and govern, it signifies that the government is seen as legitimate by the people. This legitimacy is crucial for the stability and effectiveness of a government, as it ensures that the population recognizes and respects its authority. It also helps to maintain social order and prevent conflicts or challenges to the government's power.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Somalia has continued to exist legally as a state despite its lack of
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Internal organization.
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Population
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Diplomatic recognition.
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Sovereignty
Correct Answer
A. Internal organization.Explanation
The correct answer is "internal organization." This means that Somalia has continued to exist legally as a state even though it lacks internal organization. This suggests that the country may face challenges in terms of governance and administration, but it still maintains its status as a recognized state in the international community.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The move from an authoritarian government to a democracy always produces positive results.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
The statement is too broad and generalizes the outcome of a political transition. The move from an authoritarian government to a democracy does not always guarantee positive results. While democracy can bring about positive changes such as increased individual freedoms and representation, it can also lead to challenges and difficulties, especially in countries with a history of conflict or weak institutions. The success of transitioning to a democracy depends on various factors such as the level of political stability, the strength of democratic institutions, and the willingness of the population to actively participate in the democratic process.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The Greek word demos means
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Citizenry
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Sovereignty
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Democracy
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Legitimacy
Correct Answer
A. CitizenryExplanation
The Greek word "demos" refers to the citizenry or the population of a city-state. It represents the collective body of citizens who have the right to participate in the political process and make decisions for their community. This term is often associated with democracy, as it highlights the importance of the people in governing themselves and exercising their political rights. Sovereignty refers to the supreme authority or power, legitimacy refers to the acceptance or recognition of authority, and democracy is a system of government where power is vested in the people.Rate this question:
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- 24.
BONUS QUESTION: President Morsi's government currently has legitimacy.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
President Morsi's government currently does not have legitimacy. This can be inferred from the fact that the question is in the present tense and asks about the current status of President Morsi's government. Since Morsi was the president of Egypt from 2012 to 2013 and was overthrown by a military coup, his government is no longer in power and therefore does not have legitimacy.Rate this question:
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- 25.
At what point in history did democracy begin to grow at an accelerated pace?
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After the American Revolution
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After World War I
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In the late 1980s
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After the Vietnam War
Correct Answer
A. In the late 1980sExplanation
Democracy began to grow at an accelerated pace in the late 1980s. This can be attributed to several factors such as the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, which led to the spread of democratic ideals and the dismantling of authoritarian regimes in many parts of the world. Additionally, advancements in technology and communication during this time period played a significant role in facilitating the growth of democracy by enabling the exchange of information and ideas more easily.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Immanuel Kant argued that the spread of democracy would change the world by
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Eliminating war.
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Eliminating theocracies.
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Creating states of equal sovereignty.
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Creating worldwide economic prosperity.
Correct Answer
A. Eliminating war.Explanation
Immanuel Kant argued that the spread of democracy would change the world by eliminating war. According to Kant, democratic nations are less likely to engage in conflicts with each other because they are governed by the will of the people, who generally prioritize peace and cooperation. Additionally, democratic governments tend to have checks and balances, as well as mechanisms for peaceful conflict resolution, which further reduce the likelihood of war. Therefore, Kant believed that as democracy spreads, the world would become more peaceful and war would be eliminated.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Mar 17, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Nov 27, 2012Quiz Created by
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