Commander-in-Chief Challenge! Take the U.S. Presidents Trivia Now!
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George Washington was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States in 1789. He played a crucial role in establishing many of the precedents for the office of the President that are still followed today. Washington's leadership during the Revolutionary War and his commitment to the principles of democracy made him a respected figure among his peers, leading to his selection as the nation's first President.
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2.
Which President is known for the Emancipation Proclamation?
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Answer:Abraham Lincoln
Explanation:
Abraham Lincoln is known for the Emancipation Proclamation because he issued this executive order on January 1, 1863, during the American Civil War. The Emancipation Proclamation declared that all enslaved people in Confederate states were to be set free, marking a significant turning point in the fight against slavery in the United States. Lincoln's decision to issue this proclamation demonstrated his commitment to ending slavery and his belief in equality for all individuals.
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3.
Who was the only President to serve more than two terms?
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Answer:Franklin D. Roosevelt
Explanation:
Franklin D. Roosevelt is the only President to serve more than two terms because he was elected for four terms in office, serving from 1933 until his death in 1945. This was made possible by the 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, which limited Presidents to two terms, being passed after his death. Roosevelt's extended time in office was due to the unique circumstances of the Great Depression and World War II, which led to his re-election multiple times by a populace seeking stability and leadership during tumultuous times.
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4.
Who was the first President to live in the White House?
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Answer:John Adams
Explanation:
John Adams was the first President to live in the White House because it was completed during his presidency. He and his wife, Abigail Adams, moved into the White House in 1800, making him the first occupant of the newly constructed presidential residence.
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5.
Which President issued the Monroe Doctrine?
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Answer:James Monroe
Explanation:
The Monroe Doctrine was issued by President James Monroe in 1823. This doctrine stated that the Western Hemisphere was to be closed off to further colonization by European powers, and any attempt to interfere would be viewed as a threat to the United States. It aimed to assert American influence in the region and protect newly independent Latin American countries from European intervention.
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6.
Which President was a general in World War II before taking office?
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Answer:Dwight D. Eisenhower
Explanation:
Dwight D. Eisenhower served as a general in World War II before becoming President. His leadership and strategic skills during the war earned him widespread recognition and ultimately paved the way for his successful presidency.
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7.
Who was the first President to be impeached?
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Answer:Andrew Johnson
Explanation:
Andrew Johnson was the first President to be impeached in the United States. He was impeached by the House of Representatives in 1868 for violating the Tenure of Office Act by removing the Secretary of War from office without Senate approval. The Senate ultimately acquitted him by one vote, but his impeachment set a precedent for future presidential impeachments in American history.
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8.
Which President famously said, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself"?
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Answer:Franklin D. Roosevelt
Explanation:
This quote was part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's inaugural address in 1933 during the Great Depression. He was trying to reassure the American people and instill confidence during a time of economic crisis. By emphasizing that fear was the only thing to fear, he was urging people to overcome their anxieties and work together to overcome the challenges they were facing.
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9.
Who was known as "The Gipper"?
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Answer:Ronald Reagan
Explanation:
Ronald Reagan was known as "The Gipper" because of his role as George Gipp, a football player, in the movie "Knute Rockne, All American". The nickname stuck with Reagan throughout his career, symbolizing his charismatic and inspirational leadership style.
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10.
Which President was a founding father and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence?
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Answer:Thomas Jefferson
Explanation:
Thomas Jefferson was not only one of the founding fathers of the United States but also the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. His contributions to the formation of the nation and his eloquent writing in the Declaration of Independence solidify his place in American history as a key figure in the fight for independence and the establishment of a new nation.
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11.
Which President signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964?
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Answer:Lyndon B. Johnson
Explanation:
Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 into law after it was passed by Congress. This landmark legislation aimed to end segregation and discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Johnson's signing of this act was a significant step forward in the civil rights movement in the United States, marking a turning point in the fight for equality and justice for all citizens.
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12.
Who was the first President to be assassinated?
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Answer:Abraham Lincoln
Explanation:
Abraham Lincoln was the first President to be assassinated in American history. He was shot by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. Lincoln's assassination had a significant impact on the nation and marked a turning point in American history.
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13.
Who was the last President born in the 19th century?
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Answer:Harry S. Truman
Explanation:
Harry S. Truman was the last President born in the 19th century because he was born on May 8, 1884, making him the only President to have been born in that century and serve in the 20th century. He served as the 33rd President of the United States from 1945 to 1953, following the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
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14.
Which President is known for the phrase "I am not a crook"?
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Answer:Richard Nixon
Explanation:
Richard Nixon is known for the phrase "I am not a crook" because he famously declared his innocence regarding the Watergate scandal during a press conference in 1973. This phrase became synonymous with Nixon's presidency and the scandal that ultimately led to his resignation in 1974.
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15.
Who was in office during the 9/11 attacks?
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Answer:George W. Bush
Explanation:
George W. Bush was in office during the 9/11 attacks as he was serving as the President of the United States at that time. His presidency was marked by the tragic events of September 11, 2001, when the World Trade Center in New York City was attacked by terrorists, leading to significant implications for national security and foreign policy.
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16.
Which President was a former peanut farmer?
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Answer:Jimmy Carter
Explanation:
Jimmy Carter was a former peanut farmer before becoming the President of the United States. He grew up on a farm in Georgia where peanuts were a major crop, and he later took over his family's peanut business. This background in agriculture and business helped shape his policies and priorities during his presidency, including a focus on energy conservation and environmental protection.
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17.
Who was the only President to resign from office?
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Answer:Richard Nixon
Explanation:
Richard Nixon was the only President to resign from office. He resigned in 1974 due to the Watergate scandal, which involved a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up attempts by the Nixon administration. The scandal led to impeachment proceedings against Nixon, but he chose to resign before he could be removed from office.
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18.
Which President was in office during the Cuban Missile Crisis?
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Answer:John F. Kennedy
Explanation:
During the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, President John F. Kennedy was in office. He played a crucial role in navigating the tense situation and ultimately reaching a peaceful resolution with the Soviet Union. Kennedy's leadership and decision-making during this crisis are widely regarded as a defining moment of his presidency.
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19.
Who was the first Vice President to assume the presidency after the death of a sitting President?
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Answer:John Tyler
Explanation:
John Tyler became the first Vice President to assume the presidency after the death of a sitting President when William Henry Harrison died just 31 days into his term. Tyler's ascension to the presidency set a precedent for future successions and solidified the role of the Vice President as the immediate successor to the President in case of death or incapacity.
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20.
Which President introduced Medicare and Medicaid programs?
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Answer:Lyndon B. Johnson
Explanation:
Lyndon B. Johnson introduced the Medicare and Medicaid programs as part of his Great Society domestic agenda in 1965. These programs were aimed at providing healthcare coverage for elderly and low-income individuals, respectively. By signing these bills into law, Johnson significantly expanded access to healthcare services for millions of Americans, marking a major milestone in the history of healthcare policy in the United States.
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21.
Who was the first African American President?
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Answer:Barack Obama
Explanation:
Barack Obama was the first African American President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. He made history by being elected as the 44th President, breaking barriers and inspiring many with his leadership and vision for the country. His presidency was marked by significant legislative achievements, including the Affordable Care Act and the economic stimulus package in response to the Great Recession. Obama's election represented a major milestone in American history and symbolized progress towards racial equality and diversity in leadership roles.
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22.
Which President gave the famous "I Have a Dream" speech?
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Answer:Martin Luther King Jr.
Explanation:
Martin Luther King Jr. is the correct answer because he was a prominent civil rights leader who delivered the iconic "I Have a Dream" speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963. The speech called for an end to racism and segregation in the United States and has since become one of the most famous and influential speeches in American history.
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23.
Who was the only President to serve two non-consecutive terms?
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Answer:Grover Cleveland
Explanation:
Grover Cleveland was the only President to serve two non-consecutive terms because he was elected as the 22nd President in 1884, lost re-election in 1888, and then won again in 1892, serving as the 24th President. This unique situation allowed him to be the only President in U.S. history to have non-consecutive terms in office.
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24.
Which President was a former actor before entering politics?
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Answer:Ronald Reagan
Explanation:
Ronald Reagan was a former actor before entering politics, having appeared in numerous films and television shows. His background in acting helped him to effectively communicate his political message and connect with the American public during his presidency.
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25.
Who was President during the War of 1812?
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Answer:James Madison
Explanation:
James Madison was the President during the War of 1812. He served as the fourth President of the United States from 1809 to 1817. Madison's presidency was marked by the conflict with Great Britain known as the War of 1812, which was fought over issues such as trade restrictions, impressment of American sailors, and British support for Native American tribes. Madison's leadership during this time was crucial in navigating the challenges of war and ultimately securing peace with Britain through the Treaty of Ghent.
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26.
Which President was involved in the Watergate scandal?
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Answer:Richard Nixon
Explanation:
Richard Nixon was involved in the Watergate scandal, which was a major political scandal in the 1970s. It involved a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate office complex in Washington, D.C. Nixon's administration attempted to cover up their involvement in the break-in, leading to a series of investigations and eventually Nixon's resignation from the presidency in 1974.
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27.
Who was the first President to use a telephone?
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Answer:William McKinley
Explanation:
William McKinley was the first President to use a telephone because he was the first President to have access to this technology during his time in office. The telephone was invented in the late 19th century, and McKinley served as President from 1897 to 1901, making him the first President to have the opportunity to utilize this new communication device.
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28.
Which President was known for his "Square Deal" domestic program?
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Answer:Theodore Roosevelt
Explanation:
Theodore Roosevelt was known for his "Square Deal" domestic program, which aimed to strike a balance between business interests and public welfare. This program focused on regulating big business, protecting consumers, and conserving natural resources. Roosevelt believed in fair treatment for all, and his policies reflected this belief by advocating for social and economic reforms to create a more equitable society.
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29.
Which President famously stated, "Government's first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives"?
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Answer:Ronald Reagan
Explanation:
Ronald Reagan famously stated, "Government's first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives," emphasizing the importance of limited government intervention and individual freedoms. This quote reflects Reagan's belief in smaller government and less regulation, allowing individuals to have more control over their own lives.
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30.
Who was President during the signing of the Treaty of Versailles?
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Answer:Woodrow Wilson
Explanation:
Woodrow Wilson was the President during the signing of the Treaty of Versailles because he played a key role in negotiating the terms of the treaty and represented the United States at the peace conference in Versailles. Wilson's Fourteen Points served as the basis for the treaty, which aimed to establish lasting peace after World War I and create the League of Nations to prevent future conflicts. Wilson's involvement in the treaty negotiations solidified his legacy as a champion of international diplomacy and peace.
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31.
Which President was known as "Old Hickory"?
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Answer:Andrew Jackson
Explanation:
Andrew Jackson was known as "Old Hickory" due to his tough and resilient personality, much like the hickory wood. He gained this nickname during his military career, where he displayed strong leadership and determination, particularly during the Battle of New Orleans. Jackson's strong-willed and forceful nature, both on the battlefield and as President, earned him the nickname "Old Hickory" among his supporters and detractors alike.
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32.
Who was the first President of the United States to travel abroad while in office?
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Answer:Theodore Roosevelt
Explanation:
Theodore Roosevelt was the first President of the United States to travel abroad while in office. He made history by becoming the first sitting U.S. President to embark on an official trip to Panama in 1906. This trip was significant as it showcased America's growing influence on the global stage and set a precedent for future presidential travels abroad.
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33.
Which President oversaw the end of the Vietnam War?
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Answer:Gerald Ford
Explanation:
Gerald Ford oversaw the end of the Vietnam War because he was the President of the United States from 1974 to 1977, during which time the war came to a conclusion with the fall of Saigon in 1975. Ford inherited the conflict from his predecessor, Richard Nixon, and played a key role in the evacuation of American personnel and Vietnamese refugees as the war came to an end.
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34.
Who was the first President to fly in a helicopter?
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Answer:Lyndon B. Johnson
Explanation:
Lyndon B. Johnson was the first President to fly in a helicopter because during his presidency, he frequently used helicopters for transportation, including Marine One, the presidential helicopter. This marked a shift in presidential transportation methods and set a precedent for future presidents to utilize helicopters for travel.
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35.
Who was the only President to be born on the Fourth of July?
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Answer:Calvin Coolidge
Explanation:
Calvin Coolidge was the only President to be born on the Fourth of July. He was born on July 4, 1872, in Plymouth Notch, Vermont. Coolidge served as the 30th President of the United States from 1923 to 1929. His birthday being on Independence Day adds a unique historical significance to his presidency.
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36.
Which President famously remarked that "The buck stops here"?
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Answer:Harry S. Truman
Explanation:
Harry S. Truman famously remarked that "The buck stops here" to signify that he took full responsibility for the decisions and actions of his administration. This phrase reflects his leadership style and willingness to accept accountability for the outcomes of his presidency, indicating that he was not one to pass blame onto others.
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37.
Who was the first President of the Continental Congress?
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Answer:John Hancock
Explanation:
John Hancock was chosen as the first President of the Continental Congress due to his popularity and influence among the delegates. He was a prominent figure in the American Revolution and played a key role in the founding of the United States. His wealth and status also contributed to his selection for this important position.
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38.
Who was President during the expansion of the United States manifest destiny?
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Answer:James K. Polk
Explanation:
James K. Polk was the President during the expansion of the United States manifest destiny because he was a strong advocate for territorial expansion. Under his presidency, the United States acquired a significant amount of territory through the annexation of Texas, the Oregon Treaty with Britain, and the Mexican-American War, which resulted in the acquisition of California and the Southwest. Polk's administration was known for its aggressive pursuit of territorial expansion, fulfilling the belief in manifest destiny that the United States was destined to expand across the continent.
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39.
Who was the first President to have a Christmas tree in the White House?
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Answer:Franklin Pierce
Explanation:
Franklin Pierce was the first President to have a Christmas tree in the White House. This tradition began in 1856 when Pierce's wife, Jane, introduced the Christmas tree to the White House. Pierce's decision to have a Christmas tree in the White House helped popularize the tradition throughout the United States.
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40.
Which President's New Frontier initiative aimed at social progress and exploration of space?
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Answer:John F. Kennedy
Explanation:
John F. Kennedy's New Frontier initiative aimed at social progress through policies such as civil rights legislation and economic reforms, as well as exploration of space through the ambitious goal of landing a man on the moon. Kennedy's presidency was marked by a focus on both domestic issues and the advancement of science and technology, making him a key figure in American history.
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41.
At which U.S. President's inauguration did poet Robert Frost read?
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Answer:John F. Kennedy
42.
What state was President Franklin D. Roosevelt in when he died?
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Answer:Georgia
43.
Which President's autobiography begins with, "My first memory is that of chasing a frog around the back yard in Cass County, Missouri"?
Hide Answer
Answer:Harry Truman
44.
What U.S. President started the Social Security Administration?
Hide Answer
Answer:Franklin Delano Roosevelt
45.
The only motorized vehicle that the Secret Service allowed President Bill Clinton to drive was a what?
Hide Answer
Answer:Golf Cart
46.
What U.S. President pardoned most of the Vietnam draft evaders?
Hide Answer
Answer:Jimmy Carter
47.
Whose Virginia estate is called Monticello?
Hide Answer
Answer:Thomas Jefferson
48.
Who did William Henry Harrison offend with his blunt comments pertaining to dictatorships, which led to his recall as a diplomat in South America?
Hide Answer
Answer:Simon Bolivar
49.
Which President married his school teacher?
Hide Answer
Answer:Millard Fillmore
50.
For which U.S. President was the first movie played at the White House?
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Answer:Wilson
51.
Who was the first President to be photographed at the White House?
Hide Answer
Answer:James Polk
52.
Which color did First Lady Laura Bush wear to the President's first inaugural?
Hide Answer
Answer:Ruby Red
53.
Who was the first to use a videotape machine (VCR) in the White House?
Hide Answer
Answer:Jimmy Carter
54.
Which United States President was Ulysses S. Grant?
Hide Answer
Answer:18th
55.
Who was considered the dullest President ever to occupy the office?
Hide Answer
Answer:Millard Fillmore
56.
In what year was President George W. Bush born?
Hide Answer
Answer:1946
57.
Which general did Harry Truman relieve of command in Korea in 1951?
Hide Answer
Answer:Douglas MacArthur
58.
Harry Truman authorized an airlift to supply which city in 1948?
Hide Answer
Answer:Berlin
59.
Which Republican did Harry Truman defeat for the Presidency in 1948?
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Answer:Thomas Dewey
60.
Where is the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library?
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Answer:Independence, Missouri
61.
Which two U.S. Presidents are father and son?
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Answer:George H.W. And George W. Bush
62.
What was the amount of Paula Jones' settlement of her lawsuit against President Bill Clinton?
Hide Answer
Answer:$850,000
63.
Who was the first American President to ride in an airplane?
Hide Answer
Answer:Theodore Roosevelt
64.
Who was the first President of the U.S. to have once served as head of a labor union?
Hide Answer
Answer:Ronald Reagan
65.
Who shot President McKinley?
Hide Answer
Answer:Leon W. Czolgosz
66.
What was Harry Truman's occupation before his political career?
Hide Answer
Answer:Owned Haberdasher Store And Taught School
67.
Which U.S. President died while serving in the House of Representatives?
Hide Answer
Answer:John Quincy Adams
68.
Who was the youngest U.S. President elected in the 20th century?
Hide Answer
Answer:John F. Kennedy
69.
President George W. Bush earned a Master's Degree in Business Administration from which university?
Hide Answer
Answer:Harvard University
70.
What was President George H. Bush's dog named?
Hide Answer
Answer:Millie
71.
What was the reason for President Johnson's impeachment?
Hide Answer
Answer:Fired A Cabinet Member Without The Approval Of The Senate
72.
Generally considered a failure, which President died early in his term during the 1920's?
Hide Answer
Answer:Harding
73.
Which four states' capitals are named for U.S. Presidents?
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Answer:Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Wisconsin
74.
In January 1901, President McKinley ordered the American flag atop the White House be lowered to half-mast to commemorate whose death?
Hide Answer
Answer:Queen Victoria
75.
What President said, "If they want to put me behind bars, let them"?
Hide Answer
Answer:Richard Nixon
76.
Who was the last U.S. President born in the 19th century?
Hide Answer
Answer:Dwight Eisenhower
77.
Harriet Lane served as first lady for which U.S. President?
Hide Answer
Answer:James Buchanan
78.
Which President, while serving in the military, replied to General Santa Ana's demand for surrender by saying, "Tell him to go to hell"?
Hide Answer
Answer:Zachary Taylor
79.
What prompted President Ronald Reagan to first mention AIDS in public?
Hide Answer
Answer:His Friend Rock Hudson Died Of Aids
80.
Which President planted a magnolia tree on the White House grounds in memory of his wife Rachel?
Hide Answer
Answer:Andrew Jackson
81.
What was President Gerald Ford's favorite flavor of ice cream when he was in office?
Hide Answer
Answer:Butter Pecan
82.
Thomas Jefferson introduced pasta to America. What kind of pasta was the first prepared and eaten in the United States?
Hide Answer
Answer:Macaroni
83.
Which U.S. President was responsible for the deaths of over 11,000 Cherokee Indians on the "Trail of Tears"?
Hide Answer
Answer:Andrew Jackson
84.
Who shot the famous 8mm home movie film of John F. Kennedy's assassination?
Hide Answer
Answer:Abraham Zapruder
85.
What was the name of the Dallas strip club, owned by Jack Ruby, the man responsible for shooting Lee Harvey Oswald?
Hide Answer
Answer:The Carousel Club
86.
What former first lady helped launch the campaign against highway billboards called Keep America Beautiful?
Hide Answer
Answer:Lady Bird Johnson
87.
Why did President McKinley often place a napkin over his wife's face at the dinner table?
Hide Answer
Answer:To Hide Her Epileptic Seizures From Their Guests
88.
Which of the following events occurred earliest in the administration of Richard Nixon?
Hide Answer
Answer:Neil Armstrong Walks On The Moon
89.
Which President is not on Mount Rushmore?
Hide Answer
Answer:Franklin Roosevelt
90.
Which President started the tradition of having a national Christmas tree on the White House lawn, and in what year?
Hide Answer
Answer:Calvin Coolidge In 1923
91.
What U.S. President once ran an unsuccessful Kansas City clothing store?
Hide Answer
Answer:Harry Truman
92.
In "Time" magazine's Millennium edition, who was the Man of the 18th Century?
Hide Answer
Answer:Thomas Jefferson
93.
Austin Gollaher is important in the life of Abraham Lincoln because?
Hide Answer
Answer:He Saved Young Abe From Drowning
94.
What "priceless gift" was in a ring presented to Theodore Roosevelt by Secretary of State John Hay on the evening before his inauguration?
Hide Answer
Answer:A Clipping Of Lincoln's Hair
95.
Though Ronald Reagan served three years in the army during World War II, what kept him from being permitted to go into combat?
Hide Answer
Answer:Poor Eyesight
96.
Zachary Taylor served as President of the USA during which years?
Hide Answer
Answer:1849-1850
97.
Which President lost three children to death?
Hide Answer
Answer:Abraham Lincoln
98.
The daughter of which President was briefly a concert singer?
Hide Answer
Answer:Harry Truman
99.
Which U.S. President died only four weeks after his inauguration?
Hide Answer
Answer:William Henry Harrison
100.
How old was Ronald Reagan when he died on June 5, 2004?