1.
Which of the following states is the least populous?
Correct Answer
A. Wyoming
Explanation
Wyoming is the least populous state in the United States, with a population of just over 580,000 residents. Its low population density is due to its vast, rugged terrain, much of which is comprised of mountains, high plains, and national parks. Despite its small population, Wyoming is rich in natural resources and boasts a unique Western culture.
2.
What is the capital of Texas?
Correct Answer
A. Austin
Explanation
Austin is the capital of Texas. It is the fourth-most populous city in Texas and the 11th-most populous city in the United States. The decision to make Austin the capital of Texas was made in 1839, and the city has since grown to become a major cultural and economic center in the state.
3.
Bismarck is the capital of which state?
Correct Answer
D. North Dakota
Explanation
Bismarck is the capital of North Dakota. It is named after Otto von Bismarck, a German statesman who played a significant role in the unification of Germany. Bismarck is located on the eastern bank of the Missouri River and is the second most populous city in North Dakota. It serves as an important economic hub and is known for its historic sites, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
4.
What is the capital of Florida?
Correct Answer
B. Tallahassee
Explanation
Tallahassee, located in the Florida Panhandle, is the capital of the state of Florida. It was chosen as the capital in 1824, primarily because of its central location between Florida's two principal cities at the time, Pensacola and St. Augustine, which were 403 miles apart and the travel between them was arduous. This central positioning was deemed a more practical choice for conducting administrative duties in the newly acquired territory.
5.
Baton Rouge is the capital of which southern state?
Correct Answer
C. Louisiana
Explanation
Baton Rouge, located on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, is the capital of the state of Louisiana. It became the state's capital in 1849, replacing New Orleans due to its more central location, which was seen as more defensible and less susceptible to flooding than the low-lying areas closer to the Gulf of Mexico. Baton Rouge’s selection as the capital was also influenced by its position as a geographic hub for the state, making it more accessible from different parts of Louisiana.
6.
What is the capital of Wisconsin?
Correct Answer
B. Madison
Explanation
Madison is the capital of Wisconsin. It is the second-largest city in the state and is known for its beautiful lakes, vibrant cultural scene, and prestigious University of Wisconsin-Madison. The city was chosen as the capital in 1836 due to its central location within the state. Madison is home to the Wisconsin State Capitol building, which is an iconic landmark and a symbol of the state's government.
7.
What is the capital of Maine?
Correct Answer
D. Augusta
Explanation
Augusta became the capital of Maine in 1832, succeeding Portland, which was the previous capital. The decision to move the capital was largely driven by Augusta's more central location within the state, making it more accessible for legislators from across Maine. This geographical centrality was considered important for balancing political power and facilitating state governance, especially as the population grew and spread further inland.
8.
Salem is the capital of which state?
Correct Answer
A. Oregon
Explanation
Salem, located in the heart of the Willamette Valley alongside the Willamette River, is the capital of Oregon. It was designated as the capital in 1851, five years before Oregon was admitted as a state to the Union in 1859. The choice of Salem as the state capital was part of a compromise to balance political power between different regions of the territory.
9.
Montgomery is the capital of the US state of Alabama.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Montgomery, located along the Alabama River, is the capital of the state of Alabama. It became the state capital in 1846, succeeding Tuscaloosa. The move to Montgomery was influenced by its more central location, facilitating easier access for more of the state's residents at a time when transportation options were limited. This central positioning was seen as beneficial for the state's governance and economic development.
10.
Atlanta is the capital of the US state of California.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Atlanta, often recognized for its significant role in both the Civil War and the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, is the capital city of Georgia, a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is not only Georgia's capital but also its largest city, serving as a major cultural and economic center.