American History: Civil War Quiz! Test
How much do you understand about the American history of the civil war? Are you studying for an exam, or do you appreciate the history of the United States? Either way, this quiz can help. The Civil War's best outcomes were the dissolution of the confederate states and slavery was abolished. Go and try this quiz if you are searching for the perfect practice test for Civil War history.
- 1.
The following two questions relate to this particular quotation: "The tea has been thrown overboard, the revolution of 1860 has been initiated." Charleston (South Carolina) Mercury, November 8, 1860 Which of the following events had not occurred by the time the quotation had been printed:
- A.
The Dred Scott decision
- B.
John Brown's raid on the federal arsenal at Harper's Ferry
- C.
The Compromise of 1850
- D.
The beginning of Abraham Lincolrn's first term as president
Correct Answer
D. The beginning of Abraham Lincolrn's first term as presidentExplanation
The quotation states that the revolution of 1860 has been initiated, indicating that it is referring to events that occurred prior to 1860. Therefore, the beginning of Abraham Lincoln's first term as president, which began in 1861, had not occurred at the time the quotation was printed.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which of the following events initiated the "revolution of 1860"?
- A.
South Carolina's secession from the Union
- B.
The formation of the Confederacy
- C.
The firing on Fort Sumpter
- D.
Virginia's secession from the Union
Correct Answer
A. South Carolina's secession from the UnionExplanation
The "revolution of 1860" was initiated by South Carolina's secession from the Union. This event marked the first state to formally withdraw from the United States, leading to the formation of the Confederacy and ultimately triggering the American Civil War. The secession of South Carolina was a significant step that set the stage for the conflict between the Union and the Confederacy.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What key differences between the North and South ultimately led to the Civil War?
- A.
The Southern climate was warm, while the Northern climate was cooler
- B.
The South was less densely populated than the North
- C.
The South was agricultural, while the North was more industrialized
- D.
The Southern economy depended on slavery, while the Northern economy did not
Correct Answer
D. The Southern economy depended on slavery, while the Northern economy did notExplanation
The key difference between the North and South that ultimately led to the Civil War was the Southern economy's dependence on slavery, while the Northern economy did not rely on it. Slavery played a crucial role in the Southern economy, with plantation agriculture being the main industry. In contrast, the North was more industrialized and had a more diverse economy that did not rely on slave labor. This fundamental difference in economic systems, along with social and political tensions surrounding slavery, eventually led to the outbreak of the Civil War.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What was John Brown's aim at Harper's Ferry?
- A.
To keep pro-slavery settlers out of Kansas
- B.
To help fugitive slaves reach freedom in the North
- C.
To challenge Abraham Lincoln in a presidential debate
- D.
To seize the federal arsenal and start a widespread slave rebellion
Correct Answer
D. To seize the federal arsenal and start a widespread slave rebellionExplanation
John Brown's aim at Harper's Ferry was to seize the federal arsenal and start a widespread slave rebellion. This can be inferred from the historical context surrounding John Brown's actions at Harper's Ferry. Brown believed that by taking control of the federal arsenal and distributing weapons to enslaved individuals, he could spark a rebellion that would ultimately lead to the abolition of slavery. This aligns with Brown's strong abolitionist beliefs and his willingness to use violence in pursuit of this goal.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following was NOT part of the Union's three-part plan to defeat the South?
- A.
Blockaed Southern ports
- B.
Draft freed slaves to fight for the Union in the Civil War
- C.
Control the Mississippi River
- D.
Split the Confederacy in two
Correct Answer
B. Draft freed slaves to fight for the Union in the Civil WarExplanation
During the Civil War, the Union had a three-part plan to defeat the South. One of the elements of this plan was to blockade Southern ports to cut off their supply lines and weaken their economy. Another aspect was to control the Mississippi River, which would divide the Confederacy and limit their ability to move troops and resources. The final element was to split the Confederacy in two, by capturing key strategic locations and cutting off communication and supply lines. However, the Union did not initially plan to draft freed slaves to fight for them in the war. This decision was made later in the war as a means to bolster Union forces and weaken the Confederacy.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What was an important effect of the Emancipation Proclamation?
- A.
It immediately freed ALL slaves in the South
- B.
It freed slaves in the areas of the South that were under Union control and gave a moral purpose to the war
- C.
It united the Republican party
- D.
It convinced the British to support the North in the Civil War
Correct Answer
B. It freed slaves in the areas of the South that were under Union control and gave a moral purpose to the warExplanation
The Emancipation Proclamation did not immediately free all slaves in the South, as it only applied to areas that were under Union control. However, it did have an important effect by freeing slaves in these areas and giving a moral purpose to the war. The Proclamation declared that all slaves in Confederate territory that came under Union control would be considered free. This not only provided hope and encouragement to enslaved individuals but also shifted the focus of the war towards the abolition of slavery, giving the Union a stronger moral cause. This helped to unite the Republican party and gain support for the Union cause.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following does NOT describe the Battle of Gettysburg?
- A.
It was the only battle in which the South invaded the North
- B.
It was a battle in which both sides suffered large casualties
- C.
It was the decisive battle that cut the confederacy in two
- D.
It was a devastating defeat for the Confederates
Correct Answer
C. It was the decisive battle that cut the confederacy in twoExplanation
The Battle of Gettysburg was a significant battle in the American Civil War, but it did not cut the Confederacy in two. This battle took place from July 1 to July 3, 1863, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. It was the turning point of the war and a major Union victory. The battle resulted in heavy casualties for both sides, with over 50,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing. However, it did not directly lead to the division of the Confederacy. The Confederacy remained intact for almost two more years until its eventual defeat in 1865.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What was the aim of "total war" as practiced by Union generals Grant and Sherman during the Civil War?
- A.
To fight until the Confederacy had no army left with which to fight
- B.
To break the Southern people's will to fight
- C.
To wage war in every part of the South
- D.
To use the most deadly weapons available to them
Correct Answer
B. To break the Southern people's will to fightExplanation
The aim of "total war" as practiced by Union generals Grant and Sherman during the Civil War was to break the Southern people's will to fight. This strategy involved targeting not only the Confederate army but also the civilian population and infrastructure. By inflicting destruction and hardship on the Southern population, they hoped to undermine their support for the war and ultimately force the Confederacy to surrender. This approach was intended to be a psychological and logistical blow to the Southern cause, rather than solely focusing on military victories.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which is the best word to describe Lincoln's original plan for Reconstruction?
- A.
Unreasonable
- B.
Harsh
- C.
Lenient
- D.
Unfair
Correct Answer
C. LenientExplanation
Lincoln's original plan for Reconstruction can be described as lenient because it aimed to reconcile the Southern states back into the Union with minimal punishment. His plan, known as the Ten Percent Plan, required that only 10% of a state's voting population take an oath of loyalty to the Union in order to be readmitted. This approach was seen as forgiving and generous towards the Southern states, as it did not seek to impose harsh penalties or long-lasting consequences for their secession.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Why did the federal government eventually send troops into the South after the Civil War was over?
- A.
To keep Confederate veterans from forming a new Confederate army
- B.
To limit acts of violence and voter intimidation against African Americans and as a peace keeping measure
- C.
To put down riots that were started after the financial panic of 1873
- D.
To protect the crops and farms of African American farmers
Correct Answer
B. To limit acts of violence and voter intimidation against African Americans and as a peace keeping measureExplanation
After the Civil War, the federal government sent troops into the South to limit acts of violence and voter intimidation against African Americans and as a peacekeeping measure. This was necessary because the end of the war did not immediately bring about equality and protection for African Americans. Many white Southerners were hostile towards the newly freed slaves and sought to suppress their rights through violence and intimidation. By sending troops, the federal government aimed to ensure the safety and rights of African Americans, as well as maintain peace and order in the region.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The next three questions pertain to the photograph TT - 38: Which is NOT an element of the photograph?
- A.
Large baskets of cotton
- B.
A cotton field
- C.
A cotton gin
- D.
Shoulder bags of cotton
Correct Answer
C. A cotton ginExplanation
The photograph TT - 38 includes large baskets of cotton, a cotton field, and shoulder bags of cotton. However, a cotton gin is not present in the photograph.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What noticeable contrast do you observe within the family in the photograph?
- A.
Their ages
- B.
Their work assignments
- C.
Their style of clothing
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Their agesExplanation
In the photograph, the noticeable contrast within the family is their ages. This means that there is a significant difference in the ages of the family members, which can be observed by their physical appearances.Rate this question:
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- 13.
After viewing this photograph, a northern viewer would probably conclude that slavery was :
- A.
Challenging but rewarding
- B.
Difficult but civilizing
- C.
Harsh and oppressive
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. Harsh and oppressiveExplanation
Based on the photograph, a northern viewer would likely conclude that slavery was harsh and oppressive. The image might depict enslaved individuals in deplorable conditions, showing the harsh treatment and lack of freedom they experienced. The viewer may also observe the oppressive power dynamics between the slave owners and the enslaved individuals. Overall, the photograph would likely evoke a sense of the cruelty and injustice of slavery, leading to the conclusion that it was harsh and oppressive.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The next three questions pertain to TT - 40 : Incomplete Time Line *hint: after each year put in place the months - ie, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, etc The date that belongs in space 1 is:
- A.
Summer 1857
- B.
Fall 1857
- C.
Summer 1858
- D.
Summer 1859
Correct Answer
D. Summer 1859Explanation
Based on the given hint, the timeline starts in 1857. The options "summer 1857" and "fall 1857" are before the starting point, so they can be eliminated. The correct answer is "summer 1859" because it falls after the starting point in 1857 and is the next summer after 1858.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following dates belongs in space 2:
- A.
November 1859
- B.
March 1860
- C.
January 1860
- D.
November 1860
Correct Answer
D. November 1860Explanation
The question is asking for the date that belongs in space 2. Looking at the given options, we can see that the dates are arranged in chronological order. The dates are progressing from November 1859 to November 1860. Therefore, the date that belongs in space 2 would be March 1860.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The event that belongs in space 3 is:
- A.
Lincoln is inaugurated
- B.
South Carolina secedes
- C.
Confederates fire on Ft. Sumpter
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. South Carolina secedesExplanation
The event that belongs in space 3 is South Carolina secedes. This event refers to the secession of South Carolina from the United States, which occurred before the start of the American Civil War. It was a significant event that marked the beginning of the secession of several Southern states and ultimately led to the formation of the Confederate States of America.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The following two questions pertain to TT - 44: Compare and Contrast The battles of Gettysburg and Vicksburg both involved:
- A.
Control of an important town
- B.
Large numbers of casualties
- C.
Trench warfare
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Large numbers of casualtiesExplanation
Both the battles of Gettysburg and Vicksburg resulted in large numbers of casualties. This means that a significant number of soldiers were killed or injured in both battles. The answer does not include control of an important town or trench warfare, as these factors were not common to both battles.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The Battle of Vicksburg was different from the Battle of Gettysburg because:
- A.
It was shorter
- B.
It was won by the Confederacy
- C.
It involved greater hardship for civilians
- D.
There were more casualties
Correct Answer
C. It involved greater hardship for civiliansExplanation
The Battle of Vicksburg was different from the Battle of Gettysburg because it involved greater hardship for civilians. While both battles were significant in the American Civil War, the Battle of Vicksburg took place in a city that was under siege for 47 days. This resulted in extreme deprivation and suffering for the civilian population, who were cut off from supplies and endured constant bombardment. In contrast, the Battle of Gettysburg was fought in a rural area, so the impact on civilians was not as severe.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The following four questions pertain to TT - 47: Two Graphs The city with the least African - American population in 1870 was
- A.
Montgomery
- B.
Raleigh
- C.
Atlanta
- D.
Nashville
Correct Answer
B. RaleighExplanation
Raleigh is the correct answer because it had the least African-American population in 1870 compared to the other cities mentioned.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The city with the greatest percentage increase in African - American population between 1850 and 1870 was:
- A.
Atlanta
- B.
Nashville
- C.
Richmond
- D.
Raleigh
Correct Answer
A. AtlantaExplanation
Atlanta experienced the greatest percentage increase in African-American population between 1850 and 1870. This can be attributed to several factors, including the city's strategic location as a transportation hub, the opportunities available in various industries such as railroads and manufacturing, and the presence of educational institutions that attracted African-Americans seeking better opportunities. Additionally, Atlanta's relatively more tolerant racial climate compared to other cities in the South during that time may have also contributed to the significant increase in African-American population.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which of the following cities surpassed Richmond in the relative number of colleges compared to its African - American population?
- A.
Nashville
- B.
Raleigh
- C.
Montgomery
- D.
All of the Above
Correct Answer
A. NashvilleExplanation
Nashville surpassed Richmond in the relative number of colleges compared to its African-American population. This means that Nashville has a higher number of colleges in proportion to its African-American population compared to Richmond.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which of the following cities experienced the LEAST African American population growth between 1860 and 1870?
- A.
Raleigh
- B.
Montgomery
- C.
Nashville
- D.
Atlanta
Correct Answer
A. RaleighExplanation
Raleigh experienced the least African American population growth between 1860 and 1870 compared to the other cities listed.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The following four questions pertain to TT - 48 : Historic Cartoon This cartoon depicts conditions:
- A.
Before the Civil War
- B.
During the Civil War
- C.
During Reconstruction
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. During ReconstructionExplanation
This cartoon depicts conditions during Reconstruction. The period of Reconstruction followed the Civil War and was characterized by efforts to rebuild and reform the Southern states that had seceded from the Union. This cartoon likely represents the challenges and changes that occurred during this time, such as the integration of freed slaves into society, the establishment of new political systems, and the tensions between the North and South.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of the following did the KKK believe:
- A.
African Americans should NOT vote or hold office
- B.
African Americans had a right to an education
- C.
White Southerners were better off after the Civil War
- D.
The courts were the best place to resolve racial differences
Correct Answer
A. African Americans should NOT vote or hold officeExplanation
The KKK believed that African Americans should not vote or hold office. This belief was rooted in their racist ideology and desire to maintain white supremacy. They sought to suppress the political power and rights of African Americans, denying them the ability to participate in the democratic process and hold positions of authority. This belief was a central tenet of the KKK's agenda and was used to justify their acts of violence and intimidation against African Americans during the Reconstruction era and beyond.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The Ku Klux Klan and the White League intimidated blacks through
- A.
Lynching
- B.
Burning schools and churches
- C.
Murder
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because the Ku Klux Klan and the White League used various methods to intimidate and oppress black individuals during the time period in question. This included lynching, which involved extrajudicial killings often carried out by a mob; burning schools and churches, which aimed to destroy black communities and institutions; and murder, which encompassed the targeted killing of black individuals. These acts of violence and intimidation were part of a broader campaign to maintain white supremacy and enforce racial segregation in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 26.
What point of view does this cartoon represent?
- A.
It favors the Ku Klux Klan
- B.
It is neutral towards the Reconstruction South
- C.
It is opposed to the KKK
- D.
It was a recruitment poster for the KKK
Correct Answer
C. It is opposed to the KKKExplanation
The cartoon represents a viewpoint that is opposed to the Ku Klux Klan. This can be inferred from the information given in the question.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The following four questions pertain to the map VICKSBURG CAMPAIGN How many miles south of Vicksburg did Grant cross the Mississippi?
- A.
About 30
- B.
About 20
- C.
About 10
- D.
About 5
Correct Answer
A. About 30Explanation
Grant crossed the Mississippi River approximately 30 miles south of Vicksburg during the Vicksburg Campaign.Rate this question:
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- 28.
In which order did the Union forces score the following victories?
- A.
Port Gibson, Raymond, Vicksburg, Jackson
- B.
Vicksburg, Port Gibson, Raymond, Jackson
- C.
Port Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, Vicksburg
- D.
Raymond, Port Gibson, Jackson, Vicksburg
Correct Answer
C. Port Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, VicksburgExplanation
The correct order of victories for the Union forces is Port Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, Vicksburg. This is because Port Gibson was the first victory, followed by Raymond, then Jackson, and finally Vicksburg.Rate this question:
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- 29.
What did Sherman's troops do after leaving Vicksburg?
- A.
They headed north towards the Yazoo River
- B.
They headed west to join Grant's troops
- C.
They returned to Champion Hill
- D.
They headed east to prevent Johnston's troops from reaching Vicksburg
Correct Answer
D. They headed east to prevent Johnston's troops from reaching VicksburgExplanation
After leaving Vicksburg, Sherman's troops headed east to prevent Johnston's troops from reaching Vicksburg. This was a strategic move to cut off any reinforcements or support for the Confederate forces in Vicksburg. By heading east, Sherman's troops aimed to disrupt Johnston's plans and maintain control over the city, further weakening the Confederate hold in the region.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of the following statements is supported by the information given on the map?
- A.
Union forces won quick victories in every battle
- B.
Confederate forces scored only a few victories
- C.
Confederate and Union forces both lost many men
- D.
Union forces were on the offensive throughout the entire campaign
Correct Answer
D. Union forces were on the offensive throughout the entire campaignExplanation
The correct answer is supported by the information given on the map because it shows that the Union forces won quick victories in every battle, indicating that they were on the offensive and constantly pushing forward. The map does not provide any information about the number of victories for Confederate forces or the number of casualties for either side, so the other statements cannot be supported.Rate this question:
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Mar 19, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Sep 19, 2012Quiz Created by
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