World Country Glossary Terms

Explanation
Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba because it has a long history and deep cultural significance in the country. Since the late 19th century, baseball has been widely played and followed in Cuba, producing many talented players who have achieved international success. The sport's popularity is also fueled by the passionate fan base and the strong sense of national pride associated with the Cuban baseball team. Additionally, the accessibility and affordability of baseball make it a widely accessible sport for Cubans of all ages and backgrounds.

Explanation
Cuba is the correct answer because plantains, black beans, rice, and "ropa vieja" are all traditional foods commonly found in Cuban cuisine. Plantains are a staple ingredient in many Cuban dishes, and black beans and rice (known as "moros y cristianos") are a classic combination. "Ropa vieja" is a popular Cuban dish made from shredded beef, and it is often served alongside rice and beans. Therefore, it can be concluded that a meal consisting of these specific foods would be found in Cuba.

Explanation
Communism is the correct answer because it accurately describes the type of government that prevailed in Cuba from 1970 into the 21st century. Under communism, the means of production are owned and controlled by the state, and there is no private ownership of property. This aligns with the political and economic system that was established in Cuba during this time period, with the Communist Party of Cuba holding power and implementing socialist policies.

Explanation
Cuba is known for its major exports of sugar, tobacco, coffee, and citrus. These industries have played a significant role in the country's economy for many years. Cuba's tropical climate and fertile soil make it ideal for cultivating these crops. The country is renowned for its high-quality cigars, coffee beans, and citrus fruits, which are in high demand globally. These exports have helped Cuba generate revenue and establish its position as a key player in the international market for these commodities.

Explanation
Spanish is the correct answer because it is the official language of Cuba. Spanish was introduced to Cuba during the Spanish colonization and has since become the primary language spoken by the majority of the population. It is used in all aspects of daily life, including government, education, media, and business. Spanish is also an important part of Cuban culture, literature, and music. Therefore, it can be concluded that the language spoken in Cuba is Spanish.

Explanation
Residents of China are called Chinese. This term refers to the people who are citizens or inhabitants of China. It is the correct answer because it accurately identifies the nationality or origin of individuals living in China. The other options, Beijingers, Chinooks, and China Dolls, do not encompass the entire population of China and are more specific to certain regions or cultural aspects.

Explanation
Chow mein, fried rice, and moo goo gai pan are all popular dishes in Chinese cuisine. These dishes are commonly found in Chinese restaurants around the world. Therefore, the correct answer is Chinese.

Explanation
The correct answer is China because the 2008 Summer Olympics were indeed hosted by China. This event took place in Beijing, the capital city of China, from August 8th to August 24th, 2008. It was a significant international sporting event that showcased China's capabilities and cultural heritage to the world. China invested heavily in infrastructure and facilities for the Olympics, making it a memorable and successful event.

Explanation
China celebrates its New Year with people dancing underneath a dragon costume. This tradition is known as the Dragon Dance and is performed during the Chinese New Year festivities. The dragon is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture, and the dance is believed to bring blessings for the upcoming year. The dragon costume is typically made of fabric and held up by a team of dancers who move in a coordinated manner, creating the illusion of a dragon in motion. This vibrant and energetic dance is a significant part of Chinese New Year celebrations in China.

Explanation
China is the correct answer because the calendar mentioned in the question is the Chinese zodiac calendar. The Chinese zodiac is a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by a different animal. The Rat, Monkey, and Sheep are all part of this zodiac calendar in China. Uganda, Austria, and Singapore do not have a calendar that includes the Years of the Rat, Monkey, and Sheep.

Explanation
Fortune cookies are a type of dessert that is typically served at the end of a Chinese meal. These cookies are made from a sweet, crispy dough and are often shaped like a folded fortune teller's paper. Inside the cookie, there is a slip of paper that contains a short message or "fortune." This tradition of serving fortune cookies has become popular in Chinese restaurants around the world and is often associated with Chinese cuisine.

Explanation
Footbinding was a traditional practice in ancient China. It involved tightly binding the feet of young girls to prevent them from growing properly and to create a small, delicate foot. This practice was considered a symbol of beauty and status in Chinese society. It was prevalent for over a thousand years, from the 10th century until the early 20th century, when it was eventually banned due to the physical and psychological harm it caused to women.

Explanation
Mah Jong is a popular Chinese game that is played with a set of tiles. It involves strategy, skill, and a bit of luck. The objective of the game is to collect sets of tiles and form a winning hand. The game has been enjoyed by people all over the world and has become a staple in many Chinese households.

Explanation
Chopsticks were first used in China as stick-like eating utensils. They have been an integral part of Chinese culture and cuisine for centuries. The use of chopsticks in China can be traced back to around 1200 BC. They are traditionally made of wood or bamboo and are used for picking up and eating food. Chopsticks are still widely used in China and many other East Asian countries today.

Explanation
Poland is the correct answer because it is the country that is bordered by Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Ukraine. These are the countries that share a land border with Poland, making it the only option that fits the given criteria.