1.
The interim government of Germany between World War I and the Third Reich was
Correct Answer
A. The Weimar Republic
Explanation
The correct answer is the Weimar Republic. The Weimar Republic was the government of Germany that existed from 1919 to 1933, following the end of World War I and the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II. It was a democratic government that faced numerous challenges, including economic instability and political extremism. Despite its efforts to establish a stable democracy, the Weimar Republic ultimately paved the way for the rise of the Nazi party and Adolf Hitler.
2.
The Anschluss, or Union, occurred in 1938 between which two countries?
Correct Answer
C. Germany and Austria
Explanation
The Anschluss refers to the annexation of Austria by Germany in 1938. This event marked the union between the two countries, as Austria became a part of Nazi Germany. This move was a significant step towards Adolf Hitler's goal of creating a greater German empire, and it violated the terms of the Treaty of Versailles. The Anschluss was met with little resistance from Austria, as many Austrians supported the idea of joining Germany.
3.
Joachim Von Ribbentrop signed the Non-Aggression Pact in 1939 between
Correct Answer
B. Germany and the Soviet Union
Explanation
Von Ribbentrop signed the Non-Aggression Pact in 1939 between Germany and the Soviet Union. This agreement was significant because it allowed both countries to avoid conflict and divide up territories in Eastern Europe. It provided a strategic advantage for Germany by ensuring that the Soviet Union would not interfere with its plans for expansion, while the Soviet Union gained time to prepare for a potential war. However, the pact was short-lived, as Germany eventually broke it and invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.
4.
At the beginning of the war in the Pacific theatre, a contingent of U.S. troops under General MacArthur were forced to surrender at
Correct Answer
D. Bataan
Explanation
At the beginning of the war in the Pacific theatre, a contingent of U.S. troops under General MacArthur was forced to surrender at Bataan. Bataan was a strategic location in the Philippines, where the U.S. and Filipino forces were outnumbered and outgunned by the Japanese. After months of intense fighting and enduring harsh conditions, the Allied forces were eventually overwhelmed and forced to surrender. This event marked a significant setback for the Allies in the Pacific, but it also inspired a spirit of resistance and resilience among the soldiers, leading to the eventual liberation of the Philippines.
5.
During the Battle of France, the Germans bypassed the Maginot Line by attacking through
Correct Answer
B. Belgium
Explanation
During the Battle of France, the Germans bypassed the Maginot Line by attacking through Belgium. This is because the Maginot Line was a heavily fortified defensive barrier along the French-German border, but it did not extend into Belgium. By attacking through Belgium, the Germans were able to flank the French defenses and launch a surprise offensive. This strategy allowed them to quickly advance and outmaneuver the French forces, leading to their eventual victory in the Battle of France.
6.
The main battle rifle of the German Army during the war was known as
Correct Answer
A. The K98
Explanation
The Karabiner 98k (K98) was the standard-issue rifle of the German Army during World War II. It was a bolt-action rifle known for its reliability, accuracy, and ruggedness. The other options listed were used by different nations: the M1 Garand by the United States, the Lebel by France, and the Mosin-Nagant by the Soviet Union.
7.
What fighter plane from WWII has become the most produced fighter in history?
Correct Answer
C. The Messerschmidt 109
Explanation
The Messerschmitt Bf 109, commonly known as the Me 109, was a German fighter aircraft widely used during World War II. It was renowned for its versatility and effectiveness, serving as a formidable adversary in many air battles throughout the war. The Bf 109 was produced in large numbers by Germany, with over 33,000 units manufactured during its production lifespan. Its widespread use by the German Luftwaffe, as well as by several other Axis and allied countries, contributed to its status as the most produced fighter aircraft of World War II. The Bf 109's success was attributed to its advanced design, including its powerful engine, aerodynamic airframe, and innovative features such as automatic leading-edge slats for improved maneuverability. These qualities made it a highly capable and adaptable fighter, able to perform a wide range of missions, including air superiority, bomber escort, ground attack, and reconnaissance. Overall, the Messerschmitt Bf 109's combination of performance, reliability, and production quantity cemented its place in history as one of the most iconic and influential fighter aircraft of World War II.
8.
The German submarine that attempted to strangle the supply lines to Britain was called the
Correct Answer
D. Unterseeboot
Explanation
Unterseeboot is the German term for a submarine. During World War II, Germany deployed a large number of submarines to disrupt the supply lines to Britain. These submarines were a significant threat to British shipping and played a crucial role in the Battle of the Atlantic.
9.
The Japanese Zero was superior to American fighter aircraft at the beginning of the war in the Pacific.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
During the early stages of the war in the Pacific, the Japanese Zero was indeed superior to American fighter aircraft. The Zero had several advantages such as superior maneuverability, longer range, and better climbing ability. It also had a lightweight design and was armed with machine guns and cannons. The American fighters at that time, such as the Wildcat, were outperformed by the Zero in terms of speed and agility. It was only later in the war that the Americans were able to develop and deploy more advanced aircraft like the Hellcat, which eventually surpassed the Zero in terms of performance.
10.
Operation Barbarossa was
Correct Answer
B. The invasion of the Soviet Union by Nazi Germany
Explanation
Operation Barbarossa was the code name for the German invasion of the Soviet Union during World War II. It was launched on June 22, 1941, and was the largest military operation in history. The invasion aimed to conquer Soviet territories, destroy the Soviet Union, and secure resources for Germany. However, despite initial success, the invasion ultimately failed, leading to a turning point in the war and the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany.
11.
The prime minister of England prior to Winston Churchill (1940-1945) was
Correct Answer
A. Neville Chamberlain
Explanation
Neville Chamberlain was the prime minister of England before Winston Churchill during the years 1940-1945. Chamberlain is known for his policy of appeasement towards Nazi Germany, which ultimately failed and led to the outbreak of World War II. He is also remembered for his signing of the Munich Agreement in 1938, which allowed Hitler to annex parts of Czechoslovakia. Chamberlain's leadership during the early years of the war was criticized, and he eventually resigned in 1940, making way for Churchill to take over as prime minister.
12.
The purpose of the Potsdam Conference was to
Correct Answer
C. Shape post-war Germany
Explanation
The Potsdam Conference was held in 1945 with the aim of shaping post-war Germany. The conference was attended by the leaders of the Allied powers - the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom - and they discussed various issues related to the restructuring of Germany after World War II. This included topics such as demilitarization, denazification, and the division of Germany into occupation zones. The conference played a significant role in determining the future of Germany and laying the groundwork for the Cold War division of the country.
13.
The United States entered World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The United States entered World War II following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The next day, December 8, 1941, the United States declared war on Japan, officially entering the conflict.
14.
Who was the most successful Soviet Commander during WW2?
Correct Answer
D. Georgy Zhukov
Explanation
Georgy Zhukov is considered the most famous Soviet commander due to his significant contributions during World War II. He played a crucial role in the defense of Moscow and the successful counteroffensive against the German forces. Zhukov also led the Soviet Union to victory in the Battle of Stalingrad, which was a turning point in the war. His strategic brilliance and leadership skills earned him widespread recognition and respect, making him an iconic figure in Soviet military history.
15.
The most famous German gun of the war was the
Correct Answer
C. Flak36 88mm
Explanation
The Flak36 88mm was the most famous German gun of the war. It was a highly effective anti-aircraft and anti-tank weapon, known for its accuracy, range, and power. It was widely used by the German forces during World War II and was feared by Allied pilots and tank crews. The Flak36 88mm played a crucial role in the German defense, especially during the Battle of Britain and the North African campaign. Its versatility and effectiveness made it a symbol of German military strength during the war.
16.
This man was a member of The Red Baron's fighter squadron and commander of the Luftwaffe during WWII.
Correct Answer
B. Hermann Göring
Explanation
Hermann Göring was a prominent figure in Nazi Germany, a top member of the Nazi Party, and serving as Commander in Chief of the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) during the Second World War. He was associated with the Red Baron Squadron, so named after Manfred von Richthofen, a German flying ace from World War I.
17.
The most famous British general of the war was
Correct Answer
C. Bernard Montgomery
Explanation
Bernard Montgomery is the correct answer because he was indeed the most famous British general of the war. Montgomery played a crucial role in several significant battles, including the Battle of El Alamein, where he successfully halted the German advance in North Africa. He later commanded the British forces during the D-Day invasion and the subsequent Battle of Normandy. Montgomery's strategic brilliance and leadership skills made him a highly respected and well-known figure in the British military during World War II.
18.
The Supreme Commander of the Western Allied forces was
Correct Answer
A. Dwight D. Eisenhower
Explanation
Dwight D. Eisenhower was the Supreme Commander of the Western Allied forces during World War II. He was appointed to this position in 1943 and played a crucial role in planning and executing the D-Day invasion of Normandy in 1944. Eisenhower's leadership and strategic decisions were instrumental in the success of the Allied forces in Europe. After the war, he went on to become the 34th President of the United States.
19.
Monte Cassino was
Correct Answer
C. A former monastery in Italy
Explanation
Monte Cassino refers to a former monastery in Italy. It was founded by Saint Benedict in the 6th century and became one of the most important centers of Western monasticism. The monastery is located on a hilltop near the town of Cassino and has a rich history, including being destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. It is renowned for its architectural beauty and cultural significance, attracting visitors from around the world.
20.
Jet fighters never flew in operational combat during World War II.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
During World War II, jet fighters were indeed flown in operational combat. Germany's Messerschmitt Me 262 and Britain's Gloster Meteor were two notable examples of jet fighters that saw action during the war. While jet technology was still relatively new and not as widespread as propeller-driven aircraft, these jets were used in combat missions towards the end of the war. Therefore, the statement that jet fighters never flew in operational combat during World War II is false.
21.
What was the sister ship of the German Bismarck battleship?
Correct Answer
A. Tirpitz
Explanation
The sister ship of the German Bismarck battleship was the Tirpitz. The Bismarck and Tirpitz were both part of the German Navy's plan to build a fleet of powerful battleships during World War II. The Tirpitz was launched in 1939, a year after the Bismarck, and was the largest battleship in the German Navy. Both ships were intended to project German naval power and disrupt Allied shipping in the Atlantic. However, the Tirpitz was not as seasoned in combat as the Bismarck, spending much of the war in the Norwegian fjords acting as a deterrent to the Allies. On November 12th, 1944, British Lancaster bombers hit the Tirpitz and she capsized.
22.
Lord Beaverbrook was
Correct Answer
A. Minister of Aircraft Production
Explanation
Lord Beaverbrook was the Minister of Aircraft Production during World War II. As the head of this department, he was responsible for overseeing the production and allocation of aircraft for the British military. This was a crucial role, as the air force played a significant role in the war effort. Beaverbrook's expertise and leadership in this position were instrumental in ensuring that the British forces had the necessary air power to defend against enemy attacks and support their own military operations.