US History Terms Quizzes

1.

What explorer discovered Alaska?
- A.
  
  Ferdinand Magellan
- B.
  
  Juan Ponce De Leon
- C.
  
  Christopher Columbus
- D.
  
  Vitus Bering
Correct Answer
D. Vitus Bering

Explanation
Vitus Bering is the correct answer because he was a Danish explorer who led the first documented expedition to Alaska in 1741. Bering's expedition was commissioned by the Russian government, and he discovered several islands and the mainland of Alaska during his voyage. His exploration of Alaska played a significant role in the subsequent colonization and development of the region by the Russians.

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2.

In 1973, what caused long lines at the gas pumps in the USA?
- A.
  
  Truckers Strike
- B.
  
  Free Green Stamps
- C.
  
  Arab Oil Embargo
- D.
  
  Cheap Gas Prices
Correct Answer
C. Arab Oil Embargo

Explanation
In 1973, the long lines at the gas pumps in the USA were caused by the Arab Oil Embargo. During this time, the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) proclaimed an oil embargo against countries that supported Israel in the Yom Kippur War. As a result, Arab oil-producing countries reduced or stopped oil exports to the US, leading to a shortage of gasoline and long lines at gas stations as people rushed to fill up their tanks.

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3.

What U.S. agency did J. Edgar Hoover head?
- A.
  
  FBI
- B.
  
  IRS
- C.
  
  DOD
- D.
  
  CIA
Correct Answer
A. FBI

Explanation
J. Edgar Hoover headed the FBI, which stands for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This agency is responsible for investigating and enforcing federal laws within the United States. Hoover served as the director of the FBI from 1924 until his death in 1972, making him one of the longest-serving directors in the agency's history. Under his leadership, the FBI grew in prominence and played a crucial role in various high-profile cases, including counterintelligence operations and organized crime investigations.

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4.

The description, "favorite resting place during westward expansion of the United States", best describes?
- A.
  
  The Plaza San Pietro
- B.
  
  The Eiffel Tower
- C.
  
  The Independence Rock
- D.
  
  The Rio Grande
Correct Answer
C. The Independence Rock

Explanation
The Independence Rock is the best choice for the given description because it was a popular resting place for travelers during the westward expansion of the United States. This large granite rock formation, located in Wyoming, provided a convenient stopover point for pioneers heading westward on the Oregon Trail and other routes. Many travelers would carve their names or leave inscriptions on the rock, making it a significant historical landmark and a favorite resting place for those on the westward journey.

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5.

Cinergy Field is located where?
- A.
  
  Ohio
- B.
  
  Maryland
- C.
  
  Florida
- D.
  
  New York
Correct Answer
A. Ohio

Explanation
Cinergy Field is located in Ohio.

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6.

Which is the complete name of famous military leader Westmoreland?
- A.
  
  Eleanor Westmoreland
- B.
  
  Henry Westmoreland
- C.
  
  Rudy Westmoreland
- D.
  
  William C. Westmoreland
Correct Answer
D. William C. Westmoreland

Explanation
William C. Westmoreland is the correct answer because he is a well-known military leader. The other options do not have the same level of recognition or relevance in the military field.

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7.

Who said, "We stand today on the verge on a new frontier"?
- A.
  
  Franklin D. Roosevelt
- B.
  
  John F. Kennedy
- C.
  
  Bill Clinton
- D.
  
  Martin Luther King, Jr.
Correct Answer
B. John F. Kennedy

Explanation
John F. Kennedy said, "We stand today on the verge of a new frontier." This quote is from his inaugural address on January 20, 1961. In this speech, Kennedy spoke about the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for the United States, emphasizing the need for progress and innovation. He referred to the space race and the exploration of outer space as the new frontier, highlighting the importance of scientific advancements and the pursuit of knowledge. Kennedy's words captured the spirit of optimism and ambition that defined his presidency.

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8.

What year was the first auto show held in NY City?
- A.
  
  1962
- B.
  
  1831
- C.
  
  1998
- D.
  
  1900
Correct Answer
D. 1900

Explanation
In 1900, the first auto show was held in New York City. This event marked the beginning of showcasing automobiles to the public, allowing manufacturers to display their latest models and innovations. The auto show in 1900 was a significant milestone in the automotive industry, as it provided a platform for car enthusiasts and potential buyers to witness the advancements in technology and design.

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9.

What year was oil discovered in SE Texas?
- A.
  
  1967
- B.
  
  1978
- C.
  
  1956
- D.
  
  1901
Correct Answer
D. 1901

Explanation
In 1901, oil was discovered in Southeast Texas. This marked a significant event in the history of the region, as the discovery of oil brought about major economic and industrial changes. The oil industry quickly grew, attracting investment and leading to the development of oil fields and refineries in the area. The discovery of oil in Southeast Texas had a profound impact on the local economy, transforming the region into a significant player in the global oil industry.

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10.

What year did the first Rose Bowl football game occur?
- A.
  
  2000
- B.
  
  1902
- C.
  
  1960
- D.
  
  1984
Correct Answer
B. 1902

Explanation
The first Rose Bowl football game occurred in 1902.

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11.

What year was the New York City subway opened?
- A.
  
  1935
- B.
  
  1956
- C.
  
  1991
- D.
  
  1904
Correct Answer
D. 1904

Explanation
The correct answer is 1904. The New York City subway was opened in 1904, making it one of the oldest and largest subway systems in the world. It was initially operated by the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT) and consisted of a single line running from City Hall to 145th Street in Manhattan. Over the years, the subway system has expanded to cover all five boroughs of New York City and has become an essential mode of transportation for millions of people.

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12.

What year did the historical event, "great earthquake hits San Francisco", occur?
- A.
  
  1964
- B.
  
  1830
- C.
  
  1906
- D.
  
  1992
Correct Answer
C. 1906

Explanation
The correct answer is 1906. In that year, a devastating earthquake struck San Francisco, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. This event is commonly referred to as the "great earthquake" and is a significant part of the city's history.

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13.

Oklahoma becomes the 46th state of the U.S. in what year?
- A.
  
  1994
- B.
  
  1812
- C.
  
  1825
- D.
  
  1907
Correct Answer
D. 1907

Explanation
Oklahoma became the 46th state of the U.S. in 1907.

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14.

What year did Congress pass 8-hr workday standards?
- A.
  
  1916
- B.
  
  1981
- C.
  
  1966
- D.
  
  1999
Correct Answer
A. 1916

Explanation
In 1916, Congress passed the 8-hour workday standards. This means that the government established a standard for the maximum number of hours an employee could work in a day. This was a significant milestone in labor rights as it aimed to protect workers from exploitation and ensure fair working conditions. By limiting the workday to 8 hours, Congress aimed to promote a better work-life balance and improve the overall well-being of workers.

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15.

What year was Universal Pictures founded?
- A.
  
  1995
- B.
  
  1981
- C.
  
  1912
- D.
  
  1962
Correct Answer
C. 1912

Explanation
Universal Pictures was founded in 1912. This makes it the oldest American film studio in continuous operation. It was founded by Carl Laemmle, a German immigrant, and initially started as the Universal Film Manufacturing Company. Since its founding, Universal Pictures has become one of the most influential and successful film studios in the world, producing numerous iconic films and contributing significantly to the development of the film industry.

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US History Terms Quizzes

What explorer discovered Alaska?

In 1973, what caused long lines at the gas pumps in the USA?

What U.S. agency did J. Edgar Hoover head?

The description, "favorite resting place during westward expansion of the United States", best describes?

Cinergy Field is located where?

Which is the complete name of famous military leader Westmoreland?

Who said, "We stand today on the verge on a new frontier"?

What year was the first auto show held in NY City?

What year was oil discovered in SE Texas?

What year did the first Rose Bowl football game occur?

What year was the New York City subway opened?

What year did the historical event, "great earthquake hits San Francisco", occur?

Oklahoma becomes the 46th state of the U.S. in what year?

What year did Congress pass 8-hr workday standards?

What year was Universal Pictures founded?