Multiple Choice Questions On United States Historical
Exams are always said to be hard. However, with multiple choices, it becomes kind of easy as the solutions are narrowed down to a few to choose from. The quiz below is a multiple choice one, concerning the US history.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
The largest ancestrial group of European Americans is
- A.
French
- B.
Irish
- C.
German
Correct Answer
C. GermanExplanation
The largest ancestral group of European Americans is German. This is because a significant number of immigrants from Germany settled in the United States during the 19th century. These German immigrants contributed to the growth and development of various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Additionally, German culture and traditions have had a significant influence on American society, further highlighting the importance of the German ancestral group among European Americans.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Race is
- A.
Biological
- B.
Socially constructed
- C.
Phenotypical
Correct Answer
B. Socially constructedExplanation
The answer "socially constructed" is correct because race is not a biological concept, but rather a social construct that categorizes people based on physical characteristics such as skin color, hair texture, and facial features. These categories are not fixed or objective, but rather vary across different societies and cultures. Race is a product of historical, cultural, and social factors, and it can have significant impacts on individuals' experiences and opportunities in society.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The emphasis on ethnic foods and thnically associated political issues was called..................by Herbert Garis.
- A.
Symbolic ethnicity
- B.
Ethnic paradox
- C.
Ethnic identity
Correct Answer
A. Symbolic ethnicityExplanation
Herbert Garis referred to the emphasis on ethnic foods and politically associated issues as "symbolic ethnicity." This term suggests that individuals often engage in ethnic practices and identify with their ethnic heritage in a superficial or symbolic way, rather than fully embracing it as a core aspect of their identity. It implies that ethnic identity is often chosen and performed selectively, allowing individuals to maintain a sense of connection to their heritage without fully immersing themselves in it.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The maintenance of one's ethnic ties in a way that can assist with assimilation in larger society is referred to as
- A.
Integrated ethnicity
- B.
Symbolic ethnicity
- C.
Ethnicity paradox
Correct Answer
C. Ethnicity paradoxExplanation
The term "ethnicity paradox" refers to the maintenance of one's ethnic ties while also assimilating into the larger society. It suggests that individuals can simultaneously embrace their ethnic identity and participate fully in the dominant culture. This concept challenges the notion that assimilation requires the complete abandonment of one's ethnic background. Instead, it recognizes the possibility of maintaining ethnic ties while still integrating into the larger society.Rate this question:
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- 5.
White ethnics and racial minorities have often been antagonistic to one another because of economic competition- an interpretation consistent with what sociological approach?
- A.
Functionalism
- B.
Conflict perspective
- C.
Labeling
Correct Answer
B. Conflict perspectiveExplanation
The conflict perspective in sociology focuses on the idea that society is made up of different groups competing for resources and power. In the given question, it suggests that white ethnics and racial minorities have been antagonistic towards each other due to economic competition. This explanation aligns with the conflict perspective as it emphasizes the role of competition and conflict between groups in shaping social relationships and dynamics.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The Italian padrone of the nineteenth century was a
- A.
Locally elected official
- B.
Second generation united states citizens
- C.
Labor contractor
Correct Answer
C. Labor contractorExplanation
During the nineteenth century, the Italian padrone served as a labor contractor. They were responsible for recruiting and organizing Italian immigrants to work in various industries, such as mining, construction, and agriculture. The padrone would negotiate contracts with employers on behalf of the workers, ensuring their employment and overseeing their wages and working conditions. They played a crucial role in facilitating the migration and employment of Italian immigrants, acting as intermediaries between the workers and the employers.Rate this question:
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- 7.
.....................is the largest single source of ancestry of people in the United States today.
- A.
England
- B.
Ireland
- C.
Germany
Correct Answer
C. GermanyExplanation
Germany is the largest single source of ancestry of people in the United States today. This means that a significant number of people in the United States trace their roots back to Germany. This can be attributed to various factors such as historical migration patterns, large-scale immigration from Germany in the past, and the influence of German culture and traditions in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 8.
For the..................man, the priesthood was viewed as a desirable and respected occupation.
- A.
English American
- B.
Irish American
- C.
Mexican American
Correct Answer
B. Irish AmericanExplanation
The correct answer is Irish American because historically, the Irish immigrants in America had a strong presence in the Catholic Church and held the priesthood in high regard. The Irish American community played a significant role in the development of the Catholic Church in the United States, and many Irish Americans aspired to become priests as a respected and desirable occupation within their community.Rate this question:
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- 9.
By far, the largest single denomination in the united States is
- A.
Judaism
- B.
Islam
- C.
Catholicism
Correct Answer
C. CatholicismExplanation
Catholicism is the correct answer because it is the largest single denomination in the United States. This means that there are more Catholics than followers of Judaism or Islam in the country. Catholicism has a long history in the United States and has a significant number of followers, making it the largest religious denomination in the country.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Upwardly mobile Irish were known derogatorily as
- A.
Tinkers
- B.
Black Irish
- C.
Lace curtain Irish
Correct Answer
C. Lace curtain IrishExplanation
The term "Lace curtain Irish" refers to upwardly mobile Irish individuals who were seen as trying to distance themselves from their Irish heritage and assimilate into mainstream society. The phrase "lace curtain" implies a desire to present oneself as refined and sophisticated, similar to the delicate and elegant nature of lace curtains. This term was often used derogatorily to criticize those Irish individuals who were perceived as abandoning their cultural roots in order to fit in with higher social classes.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Christopher Columbus commented in his diary that the "Indians" encountered in the New World would make
- A.
Good servants
- B.
Strong allies
- C.
Skilled soldiers
Correct Answer
A. Good servantsExplanation
Christopher Columbus commented in his diary that the "Indians" encountered in the New World would make good servants. This suggests that Columbus viewed the indigenous people as potential laborers for the European settlers. He likely saw them as submissive and capable of performing manual tasks. This perspective reflects the prevailing colonial mindset of the time, where indigenous populations were often exploited for their labor and resources.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The number of Native Americans north of the Rio Grande in 1500 is estimated to have been about
- A.
600,000
- B.
10 million
- C.
1 million
Correct Answer
B. 10 millionExplanation
The correct answer is 10 million. This estimate suggests that there were a significant number of Native Americans living north of the Rio Grande in 1500. This population size indicates a substantial indigenous presence in the region during that time period.Rate this question:
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- 13.
By 1900, the population of Native Americans living north of the Rio Grande had been reduced by dwinding food sources and diseases to
- A.
Less than 250,000
- B.
Slightly over 1 million
- C.
Slightly less than 600,00
Correct Answer
A. Less than 250,000Explanation
The population of Native Americans living north of the Rio Grande had significantly decreased by 1900 due to limited food sources and diseases. As a result, the population had been reduced to less than 250,000.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs was organized in 1824 as part of the
- A.
Department of health and Human Services
- B.
Department of Education.
- C.
War Department
Correct Answer
C. War DepartmentExplanation
The correct answer is War Department. The Bureau of Indian Affairs was organized in 1824 as part of the War Department. This department was responsible for managing relations between the federal government and Native American tribes during the early years of the United States. It oversaw policies and programs related to Indian reservations, land management, education, and healthcare. The Bureau of Indian Affairs remained under the War Department until 1849 when it was transferred to the Department of the Interior.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The Indian Removal Act of 1830 called for the relocation of
- A.
All northeastern tribes to the southeast
- B.
All Eastern tribes across the Mississippi River
- C.
All southwestern tribes to the northwest
Correct Answer
B. All Eastern tribes across the Mississippi RiverExplanation
The Indian Removal Act of 1830 was a law that mandated the relocation of Native American tribes living in the Eastern United States. This act specifically called for the removal of all Eastern tribes across the Mississippi River. The goal was to clear the land for white settlers and to consolidate Native American tribes in one area, known as Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma). This forced relocation resulted in the displacement and suffering of thousands of Native Americans, leading to the infamous Trail of Tears.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A millenarian movement like the Ghost Dance is founded on the belief on that a cataclysmic upheaval will occur in the immediate future followed by
- A.
Fusion into a single race
- B.
Collective salvation
- C.
Death to all
Correct Answer
B. Collective salvationExplanation
A millenarian movement like the Ghost Dance is founded on the belief that a cataclysmic upheaval will occur in the immediate future, followed by collective salvation. This means that the followers of the movement believe that after the predicted cataclysmic event, there will be a collective salvation or deliverance for all believers. This could involve the attainment of spiritual enlightenment, liberation from suffering, or a utopian society where everyone is saved or redeemed. The concept of collective salvation emphasizes the idea that salvation is not individualistic but rather a shared experience for the entire community or group of believers.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Wounded Knee, South Dakota, was the scene of an 1890 massacre of more than 300 Sioux men, women, and children by
- A.
White ranchers
- B.
Iroquois Indians
- C.
The United States Army
Correct Answer
C. The United States ArmyExplanation
The correct answer is the United States Army. In 1890, the United States Army carried out a massacre at Wounded Knee, South Dakota, where over 300 Sioux men, women, and children were killed. This event marked a tragic chapter in the history of Native American relations with the US government and is often seen as a symbol of the injustices and violence inflicted upon indigenous peoples during westward expansion.Rate this question:
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- 18.
In an effort to assimilate Native Americans into white society, the federal government.
- A.
Tried to weaken tribal institutions
- B.
Recognized and respected tribal identity
- C.
Protected the authority of tribal governments
Correct Answer
A. Tried to weaken tribal institutionsExplanation
The correct answer is "tried to weaken tribal institutions." This is because assimilation refers to the process of integrating a minority group into the dominant culture, often at the expense of their own cultural institutions. By attempting to weaken tribal institutions, the federal government was effectively undermining the autonomy and self-governance of Native American tribes, which aligns with the goal of assimilation.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Much of the land deeded under the Allotment Act of 1887 eventually came into the pocession of
- A.
Tribal government
- B.
Individual Indian families
- C.
White landowners
Correct Answer
C. White landownersExplanation
The Allotment Act of 1887 allowed for the division and distribution of Native American tribal land to individual Native American families. However, over time, much of this land ended up in the possession of white landowners. This could be due to various reasons, such as the inability of Native American families to hold onto their allotted land due to economic hardships or unfair practices by white settlers. As a result, the land that was originally intended for Native American families eventually came into the possession of white landowners.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The Indian Reorganization Act forced the tribal people to adopt the European way of
- A.
Voting and election of leaders
- B.
Religion
- C.
Hunting for sport
Correct Answer
A. Voting and election of leadersExplanation
The Indian Reorganization Act, also known as the Wheeler-Howard Act, was a U.S. federal law enacted in 1934. Its main aim was to reverse the detrimental effects of the Dawes Act and promote self-governance among Native American tribes. The Act encouraged tribes to establish their own constitutions and governments, including the adoption of a democratic system for voting and electing leaders. This was intended to empower tribal members and give them a voice in the decision-making process, allowing them to have a say in the governance of their communities.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Today there are 557 Indian reservations in the U.S., comprising....................... of the land throughout the U.S.
- A.
Half
- B.
One-third
- C.
About 2 percent
Correct Answer
C. About 2 percentExplanation
The answer "about 2 percent" suggests that Indian reservations in the U.S. make up a small portion of the land throughout the country. This implies that the majority of the land in the U.S. is not designated as Indian reservations.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The Indian Claims Commision was a significant development because it meant that tribal people
- A.
Served on juries for the first time
- B.
Sat in judgement of Indians guilty of criminal offenses.
- C.
Had a procedure to bring against the federal government
Correct Answer
C. Had a procedure to bring against the federal governmentExplanation
The Indian Claims Commission was a significant development because it provided a procedure for tribal people to bring claims against the federal government. This meant that for the first time, tribal people had a legal recourse to seek justice and compensation for past wrongs committed by the government. The establishment of the Indian Claims Commission was a crucial step in recognizing and addressing historical injustices faced by indigenous communities in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The Termination Act of 1953
- A.
Ended reservation residents' tax immunity.
- B.
Provided funding for basic health care services
- C.
Resulted in the withdrawal of basic services such as road repair and mediccal care
Correct Answer
C. Resulted in the withdrawal of basic services such as road repair and mediccal careExplanation
The Termination Act of 1953 resulted in the withdrawal of basic services such as road repair and medical care. This act aimed to terminate the federal government's responsibility for Native American tribes and assimilate them into mainstream American society. As a result, services that were previously provided to reservation residents, including road repair and medical care, were no longer supported by the government. This withdrawal of basic services had a significant impact on the quality of life for Native American communities.Rate this question:
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- 24.
By the mid-1960s one-fourth to one -third of the people in the Employment Assisstance Program
- A.
Werebfully assimilated into the urban areas where they lived
- B.
Had sucessfully completed college and were in management-level positions.
- C.
Had returned to their home reservation
Correct Answer
C. Had returned to their home reservationExplanation
The correct answer is "had returned to their home reservation." This means that a significant portion of the people in the Employment Assistance Program had gone back to their original reservation, indicating that they did not stay in the urban areas where they had initially settled. This suggests that they may have faced challenges or difficulties in adapting to the urban environment and ultimately chose to return to their familiar home reservation.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which of the following describes pan-Indianism?
- A.
Intertribal social movements
- B.
Several tribes which are joined by political goals unite
- C.
All of these
Correct Answer
C. All of theseExplanation
Pan-Indianism refers to the movement that promotes unity and solidarity among Native American tribes. It encompasses intertribal social movements where different tribes come together to address common social issues. Additionally, pan-Indianism involves tribes uniting for political goals, such as advocating for tribal sovereignty or fighting for indigenous rights. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of these" as it encompasses both intertribal social movements and tribes joining for political goals.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Those who participate in traditional Navajo ways of life
- A.
Do worse in school
- B.
Are just as sucessful in school
- C.
Do not recieve adequate healthcare
Correct Answer
B. Are just as sucessful in schoolExplanation
The given correct answer suggests that those who participate in traditional Navajo ways of life are just as successful in school. This implies that engaging in traditional Navajo practices does not hinder academic achievement. It highlights the idea that cultural practices and educational success can coexist, challenging the assumption that participating in traditional ways of life may negatively impact school performance.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The first African in colonial America were indentured servants whose children were
- A.
Designated slaves
- B.
Born free people
- C.
Also indentured servants
Correct Answer
B. Born free peopleExplanation
During the early colonial period in America, the first Africans who arrived were initially treated as indentured servants, meaning they would work for a set period of time to repay their passage to America. However, the status of their children differed. Unlike their parents, who were bound by indentured servitude, the children of these African indentured servants were born free. This means that they were not legally enslaved and did not inherit the same servitude status as their parents. Therefore, the correct answer is "born free people."Rate this question:
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- 28.
American slavery first began in the
- A.
1500
- B.
1600
- C.
1700
Correct Answer
B. 1600Explanation
American slavery first began in the 1600s. This is because in the early 17th century, English colonists in Jamestown, Virginia, began importing African slaves to work on their tobacco plantations. This marked the beginning of the institution of slavery in what would later become the United States. The practice of slavery continued to grow and spread throughout the American colonies in the following decades, becoming deeply ingrained in the economic and social fabric of the country.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Slave codes refer to the laws
- A.
Dictating the behavior of black Muslims
- B.
Of the ku klux klan
- C.
Defining the social position of slaves in the United States
Correct Answer
C. Defining the social position of slaves in the United StatesExplanation
Slave codes were laws that were enacted in the United States during the time of slavery. These laws were specifically created to define and regulate the social position of slaves. They dictated various aspects of slave life, including their rights, behaviors, and punishments. Slave codes were designed to maintain control over the enslaved population and ensure that they remained subservient to their owners. These laws varied from state to state but generally reinforced the inferior status of slaves and restricted their freedoms. They were a key component of the oppressive system of slavery in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of the following was rare in dealing with violations of slave codes?
- A.
Branding
- B.
Physical abuse
- C.
Imprisonment
Correct Answer
C. ImprisonmentExplanation
Imprisonment was rare in dealing with violations of slave codes because slave owners preferred to use physical abuse and branding as methods of punishment. Imprisonment would have required additional resources and space, which may not have been readily available on plantations. Additionally, physical abuse and branding were seen as more effective in maintaining control and instilling fear among the enslaved population.Rate this question:
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- 31.
For the slave population, Christianity
- A.
Stressed obeying their owners
- B.
Warned that fighting slavery would cause everlasting damnation
- C.
Formed the basis of the struggle for freedom
Correct Answer
A. Stressed obeying their ownersExplanation
Christianity played a significant role in the lives of slaves, as it emphasized the importance of obedience and submission to their owners. The religion taught them to accept their circumstances and find solace in the hope of eternal salvation. By stressing obedience, Christianity indirectly reinforced the institution of slavery. It provided a moral framework that discouraged rebellion or resistance against their owners. Therefore, the correct answer suggests that Christianity placed a strong emphasis on slaves obeying their owners.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Slaves in the United States
- A.
Could make their own wills
- B.
Could attend school
- C.
None of these
Correct Answer
C. None of theseExplanation
Slaves in the United States were not allowed to make their own wills or attend school. They were considered property and did not have legal rights or autonomy. Therefore, the correct answer is "none of these."Rate this question:
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- 33.
Among the factors contributing to the loss of African cultures by the slaves in America was that
- A.
They were forbidden to practice their native religion
- B.
Slaves had no time apart from the slave owners
- C.
Slaves had no opportunity to communicate with one another
Correct Answer
A. They were forbidden to practice their native religionExplanation
The correct answer is that slaves were forbidden to practice their native religion. This was one of the factors contributing to the loss of African cultures by the slaves in America. Slave owners often forced Christianity upon the slaves, suppressing their native religious practices and beliefs. This restriction on practicing their native religion prevented the slaves from passing down their cultural traditions and rituals to future generations, leading to the gradual loss of African cultures over time.Rate this question:
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- 34.
The antislavery movement was referred to as
- A.
Equal rights
- B.
Suffrage
- C.
Abolitionism
Correct Answer
C. AbolitionismExplanation
The correct answer is "abolitionism." The antislavery movement was commonly known as abolitionism. This movement aimed to end the institution of slavery and promote the emancipation of enslaved individuals. Abolitionists advocated for the immediate and unconditional freedom of slaves, and they played a significant role in raising awareness about the inhumane treatment of enslaved people. They organized campaigns, published literature, and engaged in political activism to bring about the abolition of slavery. The term "abolitionism" specifically refers to this movement and its efforts to eradicate slavery.Rate this question:
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- 35.
During the Reconstruction period
- A.
Whites and Blacks could not marry one another
- B.
Schools remained segregated
- C.
Blacks were elected to many public offices
Correct Answer
C. Blacks were elected to many public officesExplanation
During the Reconstruction period, there was a significant increase in political participation by African Americans. This was a result of the passage of the 15th Amendment, which granted African American men the right to vote. As a result, many African Americans were able to run for and be elected to public offices, both at the local and national levels. This was a significant development in the fight for equal rights and representation for African Americans during this time.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Numerous riots broke out throughout the country with extreme violence against African Americans in the aftermath of
- A.
Reconstruction
- B.
WWI
- C.
The great depression
Correct Answer
B. WWIExplanation
After the reconstruction period, African Americans faced widespread discrimination and violence. However, the question suggests that the riots occurred after a specific event. The Great Depression, although a time of economic hardship, did not directly lead to riots against African Americans. On the other hand, World War I had a significant impact on race relations in the United States. The war led to increased tensions and competition for jobs, resulting in violent outbreaks against African Americans. Therefore, WWI is the most likely event that caused the riots mentioned in the question.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Data since the 1960s indicate that
- A.
There is more racial diversity now than ever before in public schools
- B.
Public schools are becoming increasingly segregrated by race.
- C.
Apartheid in education is a thing of the past
Correct Answer
B. Public schools are becoming increasingly segregrated by race.Explanation
The correct answer is "public schools are becoming increasingly segregated by race." This is supported by the phrase "Data since the 1960s indicate that" and the statement that public schools are becoming increasingly segregated by race. The other options are contradicted by the given information.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which of the following is typical of African American Families?
- A.
Weak religious orientation
- B.
Low achievement aspirations
- C.
Strong kinship bonds
Correct Answer
C. Strong kinship bondsExplanation
African American families are often characterized by strong kinship bonds. This is because family is considered to be extremely important in African American culture, and there is a strong emphasis on maintaining close relationships with extended family members. These bonds provide a sense of support, unity, and identity within the community. Additionally, strong kinship bonds help to create a sense of belonging and provide emotional and practical support during challenging times.Rate this question:
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- 39.
In the 20-year interval from 1981-2001, the percentage of doctorates awarded to African Americans
- A.
Increased significantly
- B.
Decreased significantly
- C.
Remained about the same
Correct Answer
C. Remained about the sameExplanation
The given correct answer is "remained about the same." This means that the percentage of doctorates awarded to African Americans did not experience a significant increase or decrease during the 20-year interval from 1981-2001.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Why do conflict theorists find the higher arresr rate of African Americans to be unsurprising?
- A.
The group is disproportionately poor and unable to hire private attorneys
- B.
The group is sterotyped by police and society
- C.
The group commits most of the crimes
Correct Answer
A. The group is disproportionately poor and unable to hire private attorneysExplanation
Conflict theorists find the higher arrest rate of African Americans unsurprising because they believe that the criminal justice system is biased and reflects the unequal power dynamics in society. They argue that African Americans, who are disproportionately poor and lack access to resources, are more likely to be targeted and arrested by the police. Additionally, they believe that stereotypes held by both the police and society contribute to the over-policing and higher arrest rates of African Americans.Rate this question:
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Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Sep 30, 2010Quiz Created by
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