The editorial team at ProProfs Quizzes consists of a select group of subject experts, trivia writers, and quiz masters who have authored over 10,000 quizzes taken by more than 100 million users. This team includes our in-house seasoned quiz moderators and subject matter experts. Our editorial experts, spread across the world, are rigorously trained using our comprehensive guidelines to ensure that you receive the highest quality quizzes.
The Great American Revolution; everything you have ever known about this so far will be tested here in this quiz. It's a pretest though. Anyway, let's get started!
Questions and Answers
1.
Who was NOT completing for the land in North America in the 1700's?
A.
England
B.
France
C.
China
D.
Spain
Correct Answer
C. China
Explanation China was not competing for land in North America in the 1700s. During this time, England, France, and Spain were the major European powers involved in colonization and territorial disputes in North America. China, on the other hand, was primarily focused on internal affairs and its own territorial expansion in East Asia. Thus, China's absence in North America during the 1700s makes it the correct answer.
Rate this question:
2.
What was the most valuable trade item in the Ohio River Valley in the mid 1700's?
A.
Peace pipes
B.
Corn
C.
Furs
D.
Feathery jewelry
Correct Answer
C. Furs
Explanation In the mid 1700s, the most valuable trade item in the Ohio River Valley was furs. During this time, fur trading was a significant economic activity in the region, with beaver, otter, and other animal furs being highly sought after by European traders. The fur trade played a crucial role in the colonization and exploration of North America, as well as in the relationships between Native American tribes and European settlers. Furs were in high demand for their use in fashion, as well as for their practical applications in making hats, coats, and other garments.
Rate this question:
3.
Who did NOT support the French in the French and Indian War?
A.
Hurons
B.
Algonquins
C.
Iroquois
Correct Answer
C. Iroquois
Explanation The Iroquois did not support the French in the French and Indian War. This is because the Iroquois had a long-standing alliance with the British and saw the French as a threat to their territory and trade interests. They actively fought against the French and their Native American allies, such as the Hurons and Algonquins, in the war.
Rate this question:
4.
How old was George Washington when he first volunteered for military service?
A.
13
B.
15
C.
19
D.
21
Correct Answer
B. 15
Explanation George Washington was 15 years old when he first volunteered for military service. This suggests that he showed a strong sense of duty and patriotism at a relatively young age. It also highlights his early commitment to serving his country and his willingness to take on responsibilities beyond his years.
Rate this question:
5.
What modern-day city is at the fork of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers?
A.
Pittsburgh
B.
Philadelphia
C.
Allentown
D.
Harrisburg
E.
Gettysburg
Correct Answer
A. Pittsburgh
Explanation Pittsburgh is the correct answer because it is located at the fork of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers. These two rivers come together to form the Ohio River, and Pittsburgh's location at this confluence has played a significant role in its history and development as a major industrial and transportation hub.
Rate this question:
6.
The English colonies sent representatives to discuss defense plans in this city (the current capital of New York state)
A.
New York City
B.
Saratoga
C.
Trenton
D.
Albany
E.
Buffalo
Correct Answer
D. Albany
Explanation During the colonial period, English colonies in North America often sent representatives to discuss important matters, such as defense plans. Albany, the current capital of New York state, was a significant city where these discussions took place. It was strategically located along the Hudson River, making it a suitable meeting point for representatives from different colonies. Additionally, Albany had a strong military presence and was considered a key location for defense planning. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that Albany was the city where English colonies sent representatives to discuss defense plans.
Rate this question:
7.
What nickname was given to the head general for the British during the French and Indian War?
A.
Fat Cat
B.
Bulldog
C.
Poodle
D.
Pit Bull
E.
Scaredy Cat
Correct Answer
B. Bulldog
Explanation During the French and Indian War, the head general for the British was given the nickname "Bulldog." This nickname likely symbolizes the general's tenacity, strength, and determination, characteristics often associated with bulldogs. It suggests that the general was a fearless and relentless leader, willing to fight fiercely to protect British interests during the war.
Rate this question:
8.
Which of these did NOT happen under the leadership of William Pitt?
A.
Best generals were sent to North America
B.
George Washington was captured and released
C.
Taxes were raised
D.
More supplies sent
Correct Answer
B. George Washington was captured and released
Explanation During the leadership of William Pitt, the best generals were sent to North America to lead the British forces. Taxes were raised as a means to fund the war efforts. More supplies were sent to support the British troops. However, George Washington, who later became the first President of the United States, was never captured and released under Pitt's leadership.
Rate this question:
9.
What was an important outpost for the French near Nova Scotia?
A.
Quebec
B.
Montreal
C.
St. Louis
D.
Louisbourg
Correct Answer
D. Louisbourg
Explanation Louisbourg was an important outpost for the French near Nova Scotia. It was a fortified town located on Cape Breton Island, strategically positioned to protect the entrance to the St. Lawrence River and the French colonies in North America. The fortress of Louisbourg played a crucial role in the French colonial presence in the region, serving as a trading hub and military stronghold. Its location made it a key point of control in the struggle between the French and British for dominance in North America during the 18th century.
Rate this question:
10.
Who won the French and Indian War?
A.
The French
B.
The Indians
C.
The British
D.
The Americans
Correct Answer
C. The British
Explanation The British won the French and Indian War. This conflict, which took place between 1754 and 1763, was fought primarily between the British and French forces, with the support of their respective Native American allies. The British emerged victorious after a series of battles and negotiations, resulting in the Treaty of Paris in 1763. This treaty granted the British control over French territories in North America, marking the end of French colonial power in the region.
Rate this question:
11.
Who was a Native American leader who led attacks against the British near Detroit?
A.
Pontiac
B.
Cadillac
C.
Chevrolet
D.
Buick
E.
Flint
Correct Answer
A. Pontiac
Explanation Pontiac was a Native American leader who led attacks against the British near Detroit. He was a prominent figure in the resistance against British colonization during the 1760s. Pontiac's War, named after him, was a series of conflicts between Native American tribes and the British Empire. Pontiac's leadership and strategic attacks played a significant role in the resistance movement, aiming to drive the British out of Native American territories. His actions and influence made him a respected and feared leader among Native American tribes in the region.
Rate this question:
12.
Which mountains were the English colonists forbidden to cross for their own safety (in 1763)?
A.
Rocky Mountains
B.
Appalachian Mountains
C.
Green Mountains
D.
The White Cliffs of Dover
Correct Answer
B. Appalachian Mountains
Explanation In 1763, the English colonists were forbidden to cross the Appalachian Mountains for their own safety. This was because the British government wanted to prevent conflicts between the colonists and Native American tribes who resided on the other side of the mountains. By prohibiting the colonists from venturing into Native American territories, the British hoped to maintain peace and stability in the region.
Rate this question:
13.
Which of the following were NOT taxed under the Stamp Act?
A.
Wills
B.
Diplomas
C.
Stamps
D.
Playing cards
E.
Dice
Correct Answer
C. Stamps
Explanation The question asks which of the following were NOT taxed under the Stamp Act. The Stamp Act was a tax imposed on various legal documents, publications, and other paper goods in the American colonies by the British government in 1765. The answer "stamps" is correct because stamps themselves were not taxed under the Stamp Act. Instead, the tax was imposed on the use of stamps on various documents and goods.
Rate this question:
14.
Which word means to take away a law?
A.
Articulate
B.
Modify
C.
Ratify
D.
Repeal
Correct Answer
D. Repeal
Explanation The word "repeal" means to take away a law. It refers to the act of officially revoking or abolishing a law, making it no longer valid or in effect. This is done through a legislative process, where a law is repealed by passing another law that explicitly nullifies or cancels the original one. Therefore, "repeal" is the correct answer in this context.
Rate this question:
15.
No __________________ without representation was the slogan for the colonists in the English colonies after the Stamp Act was issued.
Correct Answer taxation
Explanation The slogan "No taxation without representation" was used by the colonists in the English colonies after the Stamp Act was issued. This slogan expressed their dissatisfaction with being taxed by the British government without having any representation or say in the decision-making process. The colonists believed that they should have a voice in the government that was imposing taxes on them, and this slogan became a rallying cry for their fight against unfair taxation policies.
Rate this question:
16.
Which were powerful search warrants for the British called?
A.
Townshend Acts
B.
Writs of assistance
C.
Nonimportation agreements
D.
Committees of correspondence
Correct Answer
B. Writs of assistance
Explanation During the colonial period, writs of assistance were powerful search warrants used by the British. These warrants allowed British officials to search any location they suspected of housing smuggled goods without needing to provide a specific reason or evidence. This broad authority granted by the writs of assistance was highly controversial and seen as a violation of individual rights. The use of these warrants played a significant role in increasing tensions between the American colonies and the British government, ultimately leading to the American Revolution.
Rate this question:
17.
Which were leaders in protesting against the British policies?
A.
Sons of Liberty
B.
Daughters of Liberty
C.
Committees of correspondence
D.
All of the above
E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation During the American Revolution, all three groups mentioned - Sons of Liberty, Daughters of Liberty, and committees of correspondence - played significant roles in protesting against British policies. The Sons of Liberty were a secret society that organized protests and boycotts, while the Daughters of Liberty supported the cause through non-importation agreements and promoting American-made goods. Committees of correspondence were established to exchange information and coordinate resistance efforts among the colonies. Together, these groups actively opposed British policies and played a crucial role in the fight for American independence.
Rate this question:
18.
How many people died during the Boston Massacre?
A.
5 citizens
B.
5 soldiers
C.
5 African Americans
D.
No one died
Correct Answer
A. 5 citizens
Explanation During the Boston Massacre, 5 citizens lost their lives. This event took place on March 5, 1770, when British soldiers fired into a crowd of colonists, leading to the deaths of Crispus Attucks, Samuel Gray, James Caldwell, Samuel Maverick, and Patrick Carr. The incident played a significant role in fueling anti-British sentiments and further escalating tensions between the American colonists and the British government.
Rate this question:
19.
Who did John Adams defend at the trial after the Boston Massacre?
A.
Colonists
B.
Soldiers
C.
Tax collectors
D.
The governor
Correct Answer
B. Soldiers
Explanation John Adams defended the soldiers at the trial after the Boston Massacre. As a lawyer and advocate for justice, Adams believed in the importance of providing a fair trial for all individuals, regardless of their actions. Despite the public outrage against the soldiers, Adams took on the unpopular task of defending them, arguing that they were acting in self-defense. Adams' defense of the soldiers showcased his commitment to the principles of due process and the right to legal representation.
Rate this question:
20.
Under the Tea Act, the overall price of tea...
A.
Went up
B.
Went down
C.
Stayed exactly the same
Correct Answer
B. Went down
Explanation The correct answer is "went down." The Tea Act was a British law passed in 1773 that allowed the British East India Company to sell tea directly to the American colonies, bypassing colonial merchants. This resulted in a decrease in the price of tea because the British East India Company could sell it at a lower cost without the additional markups from colonial merchants. Therefore, under the Tea Act, the overall price of tea went down.
Rate this question:
21.
What costumes were used during the Boston Tea Party?
A.
Clowns
B.
Horses
C.
Lions
D.
Native Americans
E.
Red coats
Correct Answer
D. Native Americans
Explanation During the Boston Tea Party, participants disguised themselves as Native Americans to conceal their identity. This was done to protest against the British government's taxation policies without being easily identified. By dressing as Native Americans, they were able to carry out their act of rebellion without fear of direct reprisal or punishment. This disguise allowed them to carry out the protest covertly and further emphasized their message of fighting for American rights and independence.
Rate this question:
22.
Which was NOT one of the Intolerable Acts?
A.
Closed the port of Boston
B.
Forced trials to be held in England
C.
Soldiers stayed in your house
D.
The guilty had to sign the Olive Branch Petition
E.
One town meeting per year
Correct Answer
D. The guilty had to sign the Olive Branch Petition
Explanation The correct answer is "the guilty had to sign the Olive Branch Petition." The Intolerable Acts were a series of punitive measures imposed by the British government on the American colonies in response to the Boston Tea Party. These acts included the closure of the port of Boston, the requirement for trials to be held in England, the quartering of soldiers in colonists' homes, and the restriction of town meetings to once a year. However, signing the Olive Branch Petition was not one of the Intolerable Acts. The Olive Branch Petition was a last-ditch effort by the colonists to reconcile with the British government and avoid a full-blown conflict.
Rate this question:
23.
What was the nickname of the Colonial militia?
A.
Second hand men
B.
Split second men
C.
Minute men
D.
Minute Maid men
E.
Minute Rice men
Correct Answer
C. Minute men
Explanation The correct answer is "minute men." During the Colonial era, the nickname "minute men" was given to the Colonial militia. This term originated from the concept that these men were ready to fight at a minute's notice. They were known for their quick response and readiness to defend their communities during times of conflict or war.
Rate this question:
24.
Who was involved in the Midnight Ride?
A.
Paul Revere
B.
William Dawes
C.
Both
D.
Neither
Correct Answer
C. Both
Explanation Paul Revere and William Dawes were both involved in the Midnight Ride. They were messengers who rode on horseback to warn the American colonists of the approaching British troops during the American Revolutionary War. Revere is particularly famous for his role in this event, but Dawes also played a significant part. Together, they helped spread the alarm and mobilize the colonial militia to prepare for the British attack.
Rate this question:
25.
The Shot heard round the World occurred at which two towns?
A.
Lexington & Concord
B.
Boston and New York City
C.
Philadelphia and Valley Forge
D.
Yorktown and Charleston
Correct Answer
A. Lexington & Concord
Explanation The Shot heard round the World refers to the first shot fired in the American Revolutionary War. This event took place in the towns of Lexington and Concord. The British army was marching to confiscate colonial weapons and supplies when they were confronted by colonial militia in Lexington. A shot was fired, and this marked the beginning of the war. Therefore, the correct answer is Lexington & Concord.
Rate this question:
26.
Who led the Green Mountain Boys?
A.
Edgar Allen Poe
B.
Ethan Allen
C.
John Allen
D.
Alan Shepard Jr.
Correct Answer
B. Ethan Allen
Explanation Ethan Allen led the Green Mountain Boys. The Green Mountain Boys were a militia group formed in the late 1760s in the territory that is now Vermont. They played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, particularly in capturing the British-held Fort Ticonderoga in 1775. Ethan Allen, a prominent figure in the early American independence movement, was chosen to lead this group due to his leadership skills and his commitment to the cause of liberty.
Rate this question:
27.
"Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes." These were famous words from which location?
A.
Saratoga
B.
Yorktown
C.
King's Mountain
D.
Bunker Hill
Correct Answer
D. Bunker Hill
Explanation The famous words "Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes" were spoken at the Battle of Bunker Hill. This battle took place during the American Revolutionary War in 1775, and it was a significant early conflict between the American colonists and the British forces. The quote is attributed to Colonel William Prescott, who commanded the American troops at Bunker Hill. He instructed his soldiers to hold their fire until the British soldiers were close enough for their shots to be accurate, emphasizing the importance of conserving ammunition.
Rate this question:
28.
Who was the author of "Common Sense" and "the Crisis" ?
A.
Benjamin Franklin
B.
Thomas Jefferson
C.
Thomas Paine
D.
King George III
Correct Answer
C. Thomas Paine
Explanation Thomas Paine was the author of "Common Sense" and "The Crisis". "Common Sense" was a pamphlet published in 1776 that advocated for American independence from Britain and played a significant role in inspiring the American Revolution. "The Crisis" was a series of pamphlets published during the American Revolutionary War, which aimed to boost morale and encourage support for the American cause. Thomas Paine's writings were influential in shaping public opinion and rallying support for the American Revolution.
Rate this question:
29.
Which is NOT a section in the Declaration of Independence?
A.
Basic rights
B.
British Wrongs
C.
Bill of Rights
D.
An Independent Nation
Correct Answer
C. Bill of Rights
Explanation The Declaration of Independence is a document that outlines the grievances of the American colonists against British rule and proclaims their independence. It does not include a section called "Bill of Rights." The Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution, which were added later to protect individual rights and liberties. Therefore, "Bill of Rights" is not a section in the Declaration of Independence.
Rate this question:
30.
The people that wanted to break away from the British government were called
A.
Patriots
B.
Loyalists
C.
Hessians
D.
Prussians
Correct Answer
A. Patriots
Explanation The correct answer is Patriots because during the American Revolution, the individuals who wanted to separate from the British government and establish an independent nation were known as Patriots. They were committed to the cause of American independence and fought against British rule. The term "Patriots" reflects their strong patriotic sentiment and their desire for self-governance.
Rate this question:
31.
Where did Washington surprise the Hessians after his famous crossing?
A.
Princeton
B.
Trenton
C.
Albany
D.
Philadelphia
Correct Answer
B. Trenton
Explanation During the American Revolutionary War, George Washington led his troops in a surprise attack on the Hessian soldiers stationed in Trenton, New Jersey. This famous crossing of the Delaware River took place on Christmas night in 1776. Washington's army successfully surprised and defeated the Hessians, boosting morale and gaining a much-needed victory for the American forces.
Rate this question:
32.
Which was the most important battle for the Americans?
A.
Valley Forge
B.
Brandywine
C.
Germantown
D.
Saratoga
Correct Answer
D. Saratoga
Explanation Saratoga was the most important battle for the Americans because it marked a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. The American victory at Saratoga convinced the French to openly support the American cause, providing crucial military and financial aid. This support from France was instrumental in securing American independence. Additionally, Saratoga boosted American morale and demonstrated to other nations that the American forces were capable of defeating the powerful British army.
Rate this question:
33.
Which countries did NOT assist the Americans during the American Revolution?
A.
France
B.
Prussia
C.
Poland
D.
Spain
E.
Canada
Correct Answer
E. Canada
Explanation During the American Revolution, Canada did not assist the Americans. While France, Prussia, Poland, and Spain provided support to the American colonists, Canada remained loyal to the British Crown and did not support the American cause. This lack of assistance from Canada was due to the fact that Canada was a British colony at the time and had a significant British military presence, which prevented them from aiding the American Revolution.
Rate this question:
34.
Who attacked British ships near the English coast?
A.
Davy Jones
B.
John Paul Jones
C.
Nathan Hale
D.
Nathaniel Hawthorne
Correct Answer
B. John Paul Jones
Explanation John Paul Jones is the correct answer because he was a Scottish-American naval officer who is known for his role in the American Revolutionary War. He gained fame for his daring attacks on British ships near the English coast, which disrupted British naval operations and boosted American morale. Jones is considered one of the founding fathers of the United States Navy and his actions played a significant role in the eventual American victory in the war.
Rate this question:
35.
What was the nickname of Mary Ludwig Hays?
A.
Dolly Madison
B.
Molly Pitcher
C.
Dolly Parton
D.
The Unsinkable Molly Brown
Correct Answer
B. Molly Pitcher
Explanation Mary Ludwig Hays was known by the nickname "Molly Pitcher" because of her actions during the American Revolutionary War. She gained fame for carrying pitchers of water to soldiers on the battlefield, providing them with much-needed refreshment. During the Battle of Monmouth in 1778, when her husband collapsed, she took his place at the cannon and continued firing at the enemy. Her bravery and dedication to the cause made her a symbol of women's contributions to the war effort.
Rate this question:
36.
Which general was considered a traitor to the Patriot cause?
A.
Francis Marion
B.
Daniel Morgan
C.
Benedict Arnold
D.
Nathaniel Green
Correct Answer
C. Benedict Arnold
Explanation Benedict Arnold is considered a traitor to the Patriot cause because he was a high-ranking officer in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War who defected to the British side. He conspired to surrender the American fort at West Point to the British in exchange for money and a commission in the British Army. Arnold's betrayal was seen as a major blow to the Patriot cause and he is remembered as one of the most notorious traitors in American history.
Rate this question:
37.
Who was NOT involved in the final capture of General Cornwallis at Yorktown?
A.
George Washington's army
B.
Rochambeau's army
C.
French fleet
D.
British fleet
Correct Answer
D. British fleet
Explanation The British fleet was not involved in the final capture of General Cornwallis at Yorktown. It was George Washington's army, Rochambeau's army, and the French fleet that played a crucial role in the capture. The British fleet did not have a significant presence or impact during this event.
Rate this question:
38.
When was the American Revolution finally over?
A.
1763
B.
1773
C.
1776
D.
1783
Correct Answer
D. 1783
Explanation The American Revolution was finally over in 1783. This is because the Treaty of Paris was signed in that year, officially ending the war between Great Britain and the United States. The treaty recognized the United States as an independent nation and established its boundaries. Therefore, 1783 marks the end of the American Revolutionary War and the beginning of the United States as a sovereign nation.
Rate this question:
39.
What was the westernmost natural boundary of the United States as a result of the (2nd) Treaty of Paris?
A.
Mississippi River
B.
Appalachian Mountains
C.
Rocky Mountains
D.
Rio Grande River
Correct Answer
A. Mississippi River
Explanation The westernmost natural boundary of the United States as a result of the (2nd) Treaty of Paris was the Mississippi River. This treaty, signed in 1783, ended the American Revolutionary War and established the boundaries of the newly formed United States. The Mississippi River was recognized as the western boundary, separating the United States from Spanish territory. This boundary remained until the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, when the United States acquired the land west of the Mississippi River.
Rate this question:
40.
Who controlled a majority of North America as a result of the (2nd) Treaty of Paris?
A.
United States
B.
Spain
C.
France
D.
Great Britain
Correct Answer
B. Spain
Explanation As a result of the (2nd) Treaty of Paris, Spain controlled a majority of North America. This treaty, signed in 1783, ended the American Revolutionary War and granted Spain control over Florida and the Louisiana Territory, which encompassed a significant portion of North America. This control gave Spain a dominant presence in the region, allowing them to exert influence and establish colonies in areas such as present-day Louisiana, Texas, and parts of the Midwest.
Rate this question:
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.