1.
When did the Republic of Texas declare its independence from Mexico?
Correct Answer
B. March 2, 1836
Explanation
On March 2, 1836, the Republic of Texas declared its independence from Mexico. This date is significant because it marks the formal declaration of independence and the establishment of the Republic of Texas as a separate entity from Mexico.
2.
Which Treaty ended the Mexican-American War?
Correct Answer
C. Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
Explanation
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican-American War. This treaty was signed on February 2, 1848, between the United States and Mexico. It established the Rio Grande as the border between the two countries and ceded a significant portion of Mexico's territory to the United States, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The treaty also recognized the rights and privileges of Mexicans living in the ceded territories.
3.
When was the NAFTA signed between Mexico, the United States, and Canada?
Correct Answer
B. 1994
Explanation
NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, was signed between Mexico, the United States, and Canada in 1994. This agreement aimed to promote economic cooperation and eliminate trade barriers among the three countries. It created a trilateral trade bloc, allowing for the free movement of goods and services between the nations involved. The signing of NAFTA had a significant impact on the economies of Mexico, the United States, and Canada, fostering increased trade and investment between them.
4.
Which state does not share a border with Mexico?
Correct Answer
D. Georgia
Explanation
Georgia does not share a border with Mexico. Texas, California, and Arizona all share a border with Mexico, but Georgia is located on the opposite side of the United States, in the southeastern region. Therefore, it does not share a border with Mexico.
5.
Which of the following states was not a former Mexican territory?
Correct Answer
D. Florida
Explanation
Florida was not a former Mexican territory because it was acquired by the United States through the Adams-Onís Treaty in 1819. This treaty between the United States and Spain defined the boundary between Spanish-held Florida and the United States. As a result, Florida became a U.S. territory and eventually achieved statehood in 1845. In contrast, California, Utah, and Nevada were all part of the Mexican territories that were ceded to the United States following the Mexican-American War in 1848.
6.
The United States acquired the Gadsden Purchase region from Mexico under the Treaty of
Correct Answer
C. Mesilla
Explanation
The correct answer is Mesilla because the Gadsden Purchase region was acquired from Mexico under the Treaty of Mesilla. This treaty, signed in 1854, allowed the United States to purchase a strip of land in present-day Arizona and New Mexico for $10 million. The Gadsden Purchase was made in order to facilitate the construction of a southern transcontinental railroad route.
7.
The formal name of Mexico is
Correct Answer
B. United Mexican States
Explanation
The correct answer is "United Mexican States" because it is the official name of Mexico. The country is a federal republic composed of 31 states and the capital city, Mexico City. The name "United Mexican States" reflects the federal structure of the country, where power is divided between the central government and the individual states. This name has been used since the Mexican Constitution of 1824 and is recognized internationally as the formal name of Mexico.
8.
Through which treaty did which Mexico agree to respect the rights of oil companies in exchange for U.S. recognition of the sitting Mexican government?
Correct Answer
B. Bucareli Treaty
Explanation
The Bucareli Treaty was an agreement between Mexico and the United States. Through this treaty, Mexico agreed to respect the rights of oil companies in exchange for U.S. recognition of the sitting Mexican government. This treaty specifically addressed the issue of oil companies' rights and the recognition of the Mexican government, making it the correct answer to the question.
9.
Which U.S. president declared a global war on drugs?
Correct Answer
C. President Richard Nixon
Explanation
President Richard Nixon is the correct answer because he declared a global war on drugs during his presidency. In 1971, Nixon officially declared drug abuse as "public enemy number one" and implemented several policies to combat drug trafficking and drug use. This included increasing funding for law enforcement agencies, establishing the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and implementing stricter penalties for drug offenses. Nixon's declaration of a global war on drugs had a significant impact on drug policy in the United States and set the stage for future administrations' approaches to the issue.
10.
Which President becomes the first U.S. leader to visit Mexico since 1979?
Correct Answer
C. President Bill Clinton
Explanation
President Bill Clinton becomes the first U.S. leader to visit Mexico since 1979 because he visited Mexico in 1994, marking the first official visit by a U.S. President in 15 years. This visit was significant as it aimed to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries and promote economic cooperation. Clinton's visit paved the way for future U.S. Presidents to engage with Mexico and further enhance diplomatic ties between the two nations.