1.
Roanoke Island is also known as:
Correct Answer
B. The Lost Colony
Explanation
Roanoke Island is historically known as "The Lost Colony." It was one of the first English settlements in the New World, established in the late 16th century. The colony mysteriously disappeared with all settlers vanishing and leaving behind only a cryptic message carved into a tree, "Croatoan." This disappearance has sparked numerous theories and remains one of the most intriguing mysteries in American history. The term "The Lost Colony" refers to the unexplained fate of these settlers and continues to be a subject of research and fascination.
2.
Spain attacked during the Battle of the Spanish Armada because...
Correct Answer
C. They were defending colonies in the "New World".
Explanation
Spain attacked during the Battle of the Spanish Armada not as an act of defense, but as part of an offensive strategy aimed at overthrowing Queen Elizabeth I of England and halting English support for Dutch rebels fighting Spanish rule. The Spanish Armada launched in 1588, was intended to invade England and restore Catholic rule. This historical event is a critical example of the power struggles and religious conflicts between major European powers during the late 16th century. The Armada's failure marked a significant shift in naval power favoring England and influenced the future of European colonization and power dynamics.
3.
What was one reason for England's victory?
Correct Answer
A. Small ships that could move faster
Explanation
England won because their ships were smaller and could move faster. This made it easier for them to maneuver and adjust their positions during battles. These quick, small ships could dodge attacks from enemies and get into better positions to attack. This was especially helpful in sea battles, where moving quickly can make a big difference. So, having smaller and faster ships helped England win battles and eventually the war.
4.
What does a charter allow?
Correct Answer
C. Allows people to own land
Explanation
A charter is an official document that gives people the right to do something, like owning land. In history, charters were often given by a king or government to allow groups of people to start a new colony. This document would outline what the colonists could do, including owning land and setting up their own local government. So, when people received a charter, it usually meant they had permission to own land and manage it according to the terms outlined in the charter.
5.
What does "stock" refer to in a business context?
Correct Answer
C. Shares in a company
Explanation
In business, "stock" refers to shares in a company. When you own stock, you own a small part of that company. This means you have a claim on some of the company’s assets and earnings, based on how many shares you own. Owning stock can also give you the right to vote on important company decisions. Stocks are bought and sold on stock markets, and their prices can go up or down depending on how well the company is doing and other factors.
6.
Which of the following did John Smith NOT force people to do?
Correct Answer
D. Dig wells
Explanation
John Smith, a leader in the early American colonies, is known for his strict leadership and the rule "He who does not work, does not eat." He pushed colonists to be productive to ensure their survival. While he enforced activities like fishing, digging for gold, planting crops, and building houses to create a sustainable settlement, there is no historical evidence suggesting he specifically forced people to dig wells. This task might have been necessary, but it was not one of the tasks Smith famously demanded.
7.
Whose life did Pocahontas save?
Correct Answer
C. John Smith
Explanation
Pocahontas, a Native American woman, is famous for saving the life of John Smith. According to a story told by Smith, he was captured by Native Americans and was about to be killed when Pocahontas intervened. She placed her head over his as a symbolic gesture to stop the execution, saving his life. This act of bravery helped to establish a more peaceful relationship between the English settlers and the Native American tribe, at least for a while. Pocahontas later played a key role in promoting understanding between the two groups.
8.
What was Jamestown's first significant product grown by John Rolfe?
Correct Answer
B. Cash crop
Explanation
John Rolfe introduced tobacco as Jamestown's first significant cash crop. This means that tobacco was grown primarily to be sold for profit, rather than used for personal consumption by the settlers. The cultivation of tobacco proved to be very profitable and helped the colony of Jamestown become economically successful. This was important because, before tobacco, the colony struggled to find a way to generate income. Tobacco quickly became a popular product in Europe, and its sales helped to sustain and grow the Jamestown settlement.
9.
Whom did Pocahontas marry?
Correct Answer
D. John Rolfe
Explanation
Pocahontas, a notable figure in early American history, married John Rolfe, not John Smith as often mistakenly believed. John Rolfe was an English settler in Jamestown, Virginia, and he is credited with pioneering the process of growing tobacco as a cash crop. Their marriage in 1614 was significant because it helped establish a period of peace between English settlers and the native Powhatan tribe. This union was one of the early recorded instances of a marriage between a Native American and a European settler in North America.
10.
What made Jamestown a good location for settlement?
Correct Answer
A. Water
Explanation
Jamestown was considered a good place to settle mainly because of its access to water. This location provided a strategic defensive advantage against potential attackers, as it was only accessible from one narrow land approach. Moreover, the waterways allowed for easy transportation and communication with other areas, including the ability to trade easily. Additionally, the water was a crucial resource for drinking, cooking, and daily chores, essential for the survival of the colony. While the area also had challenges like swamps and mosquitoes, the access to water was a significant positive aspect.