Missouri Quiz: Trivia Facts And Questions!

Missouri is known as the Show Me State because of its residents' practical and skeptical nature. The nickname originated from a speech by Congressman Willard Vandiver in 1899, where he said, "I come from a state that raises corn and cotton and cockleburs and Democrats, and frothy eloquence neither convinces nor satisfies me. I'm from Missouri, and you have got to show me." This phrase became popular and eventually led to Missouri being referred to as the Show Me State.

The capital of Missouri is named Jefferson City after the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson was a key figure in the early development of the United States and played a significant role in the Louisiana Purchase, which included the territory that would later become Missouri. Jefferson's contributions to the nation and his influence on the expansion of its territories make him a fitting namesake for the capital city of Missouri.

Kansas City is partly located in Missouri because it is a city that straddles the border of the states of Missouri and Kansas. The city is divided by the Missouri River, with the majority of its area lying in Missouri, while a smaller portion extends into Kansas. This unique geographical location makes Kansas City an unlikely city that is partly located in Missouri.

The correct answer is Louisiana Purchase. The territory of Missouri was part of the Louisiana Purchase, which was a land acquisition made by the United States from France in 1803. The purchase doubled the size of the country and extended its western boundary all the way to the Rocky Mountains. This acquisition was significant in the history of Western expansion and played a crucial role in the development of the United States as a continental nation.

Laura Ingalls Wilder is the correct answer because she is the famous author of the "Little House" books. These books are a series of autobiographical children's novels based on her own experiences growing up in the American Midwest in the late 19th century. While she was born in Wisconsin, she later moved to Missouri with her husband and lived there as an adult. This is where she wrote and published the majority of her famous books, which have become beloved classics in children's literature.

The Missouri Compromise was an agreement reached in 1820 that allowed Missouri to enter the United States as a slave state. This was significant because it maintained the balance between free and slave states in the Union. As part of the compromise, Maine was also admitted as a free state, ensuring that there would be an equal number of free and slave states in the Senate. This compromise was an attempt to prevent further conflicts between the North and South over the issue of slavery.

The correct answer is Titanic. The museum in Branson, Missouri is dedicated to the famous wreck of the Titanic. The Titanic was a British passenger liner that famously sank in the North Atlantic Ocean in 1912 after colliding with an iceberg during its maiden voyage. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the Titanic, providing visitors with a glimpse into the history and tragedy of the ship.

The Mississippi River is the correct answer because it forms the border between Missouri and Illinois. It is one of the longest rivers in North America and is known for its importance in transportation, trade, and agriculture. The river played a significant role in the exploration and settlement of the region, and continues to be a vital waterway for commerce and recreation.

The Oregon Trail is the correct answer because it was a famous pioneer trackway that started in Missouri and extended all the way to Oregon. This trail was used by thousands of pioneers in the 19th century to travel westward in search of new opportunities and land. It played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States and is an important part of American history.

In 1949, the General Assembly of Missouri adopted an act that made "The Missouri Waltz" the state song of Missouri. This song was chosen to represent the state and its culture, as it reflects the traditional waltz style and has been popular among Missourians for many years. The decision to make it the state song was a way to honor and celebrate the musical heritage of Missouri.

In 1811, New Madrid, Missouri was struck by a devastating earthquake, which is considered the worst of its kind in U.S. history. This earthquake, known as the New Madrid earthquake, occurred along the New Madrid Fault line and had a series of powerful aftershocks. The earthquake caused widespread destruction, including the formation of new lakes and changes in the course of the Mississippi River. The impact of this earthquake was significant and continues to be studied by scientists today.

Bob Chandler, a Missouri native, is credited with creating the first Monster Truck, which he named Bigfoot. Bigfoot revolutionized the world of Monster Trucks and became an iconic vehicle in the industry. Its large size, powerful engine, and ability to crush cars made it a crowd favorite and set the standard for future Monster Trucks.

Columbia is the correct answer because it is the location of the first public university founded west of the Mississippi River. This university is the University of Missouri, which was established in 1839. St. Joseph, Jefferson City, and Branson are not the correct answers as they do not have the distinction of being the location of the first public university west of the Mississippi River.

The correct answer is Fiddle. In Missouri, the fiddle is recognized as the official state instrument. This instrument is commonly associated with traditional folk and country music, which have deep roots in the state's cultural heritage. The fiddle is played by drawing a bow across the strings, producing a distinct and lively sound. It is often used in square dances and other traditional music events in Missouri, making it a fitting choice for the state's official instrument.

Saint Genevieve is the correct answer because it is the oldest community in Missouri, founded as early as 1735. This means that it has been established for a longer period of time compared to the other options listed. Richland, Saint Peters, and Salem are not the oldest communities in Missouri.