The Ultimate European History MCQ Test
Do you know anything about European history? The history of Europe involves the discovery, gathering, examining, and learning from past events and the individuals in Europe throughout time. One of the significant events was the fall of the Roman Empire in AD 476, which is the start of the middle ages. The Greeks and Romans left a lasting impact on Europe. This quiz offers information about European history. All the best.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Charles V, the ruler of Spain, split up the enormous Spanish empire into two parts. He gave one to ________, his brother, and the other part to his son.
Explanation
Charles V, the ruler of Spain, divided the vast Spanish empire into two sections. He allocated one section to his brother, while the other section was given to his son. The name of the person who received one of the parts is Ferdinand.Rate this question:
- 2.
Charles V's son, who inherited Spain, was named Phillip III
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False -
- 3.
One of the first things King Phillip II accomplished as the ruler of Spain was to:
- A.
Establish a trade empire
- B.
Build the palace of Versailles
- C.
Defeat the Incas
- D.
Build up a huge army
Correct Answer
D. Build up a huge armyExplanation
As the ruler of Spain, King Phillip II prioritized building up a huge army. This decision was likely driven by the need to maintain and expand Spain's power and influence both domestically and internationally. A strong military would ensure the protection of Spain's territories and interests, as well as potentially enable the king to pursue his expansionist ambitions. By focusing on strengthening the army, King Phillip II aimed to establish Spain as a formidable force in Europe and solidify his own authority as a ruler.Rate this question:
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- 4.
________ was the campaign to remove all Muslims from Spain.
Correct Answer
Reconquista
The Reconquista
"Reconquista"Explanation
The term "Reconquista" refers to the campaign that aimed to remove all Muslims from Spain. It was a long and ongoing process that took place over several centuries, starting in the 8th century and ending in the 15th century. The Christian kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula sought to regain control of the territories that had been conquered by Muslim forces during the early Middle Ages. The Reconquista resulted in the eventual expulsion of Muslims from Spain and the establishment of Christian rule throughout the entire peninsula.Rate this question:
- 5.
King Phillip II was a very devout Protestant.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement says that King Phillip II was a very devout Protestant, but this is incorrect. King Phillip II was actually a devout Catholic. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The Spanish fleet is called the _________.
Correct Answer
ArmadaExplanation
The correct answer is "Armada" because historically, the Spanish fleet was known as the Armada. The term "Armada" refers to a fleet of warships, and it specifically became associated with the Spanish fleet during the 16th century. The Spanish Armada was a powerful naval force that played a significant role in various conflicts and wars during that time period.Rate this question:
- 7.
After King Phillip II defeats the Ottomans, he sends his fleet to attack the _________.
- A.
French
- B.
Dutch
- C.
Portugese
- D.
British
Correct Answer
D. BritishExplanation
After King Phillip II defeats the Ottomans, he sends his fleet to attack the British. This can be inferred from the context of the question, as it mentions King Phillip II's victory over the Ottomans and his subsequent action of sending his fleet to attack a specific group. The other options (French, Dutch, Portuguese) are not mentioned in the question and therefore cannot be considered as the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 8.
England was a Catholic country.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
England was not a Catholic country. In the 16th century, England underwent the English Reformation, during which it broke away from the authority of the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church. This led to the establishment of the Church of England, which became the dominant religious institution in the country. Therefore, the statement that England was a Catholic country is false.Rate this question:
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- 9.
King Phillip II built a grand, granite palace named the __________. This palace was a symbol of power, strength, and wealth.
Correct Answer
EscorialExplanation
The correct answer is Escorial, which was a grand palace built by King Phillip II. This palace was made of granite and served as a symbol of power, strength, and wealth.Rate this question:
- 10.
While Spain prospered, many became patron of the arts. The country began to enter a golden age in Art and Literature. One of the popular painters of this time was named ________. He showed a deep Catholic faith in his paintings and to paint elongated figures.
Correct Answer
El GrecoExplanation
During Spain's golden age in Art and Literature, El Greco emerged as a popular painter. He was known for his deep Catholic faith reflected in his paintings, as well as his distinctive style of depicting elongated figures.Rate this question:
- 11.
Who wrote Don Quixote de la Mancha?
- A.
El Greco
- B.
King Phillip Proxy-Connection: keep-alive Cache-Control: max-age=0
- C.
Michael Ferdinand
- D.
Miguel de Cervantes
Correct Answer
D. Miguel de CervantesExplanation
Miguel de Cervantes is the correct answer because he is the author of the famous novel "Don Quixote de la Mancha." Cervantes wrote this novel in the early 17th century and it is considered one of the greatest works of literature in the world. The story follows the adventures of a delusional knight named Don Quixote and his loyal squire Sancho Panza. Cervantes' work is known for its satire, humor, and exploration of themes such as chivalry, reality, and imagination.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Whenever a large amount of new money comes flowing into the economy, it causes ________, or the steady increases in prices of goods.
Correct Answer
inflationExplanation
When a large amount of new money enters the economy, it leads to an increase in the overall demand for goods and services. This increase in demand exceeds the supply, causing prices to rise steadily. This phenomenon is known as inflation, where the purchasing power of money decreases over time. Inflation erodes the value of money and affects the cost of living for individuals and businesses.Rate this question:
- 13.
Since the Nobles did not pay taxes in Spain, it was shoved onto the poor class. This destroyed any chance of a(n) ________ developing.
- A.
Economic bubble
- B.
Rise in prices
- C.
Status change
- D.
Middle class
Correct Answer
D. Middle classExplanation
The statement suggests that the lack of taxes paid by the Nobles in Spain resulted in the burden being placed on the poor class. As a result, any possibility of a middle class developing was destroyed. This implies that the middle class, which typically plays a crucial role in economic growth and stability, was unable to emerge due to the unequal distribution of taxes and resources.Rate this question:
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- 14.
How many times did King Phillip II declare bankruptcy?
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
3
- D.
4
Correct Answer
C. 3Explanation
King Phillip II declared bankruptcy three times.Rate this question:
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- 15.
At the peak of Spain's empire, they owned many lands across Europe. One of these was the Dutch. They were very Catholic, as opposed to Spain's Protestant beliefs
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement that Spain owned the Dutch at the peak of their empire is false. The Dutch were not owned by Spain, but rather they gained independence from Spanish rule in the 16th century. Additionally, the statement about their religious beliefs is incorrect as well. The Netherlands, including the Dutch, were predominantly Protestant during this time, while Spain was predominantly Catholic.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The Dutch decide to fight against the oppressive Spanish, until __ years later, they gain their independence.
Correct Answer
11Explanation
The Dutch decided to fight against the oppressive Spanish, and their struggle lasted for 11 years until they finally gained their independence.Rate this question:
- 17.
The Netherlands begin to grow with their newfound freedom. The middle class was very important to their society, completely opposite of what the Spanish thought. Art and Literature flourishes, and with this time period comes some Dutch painters named:
- A.
Picasso, El Greco
- B.
Rembrandt van Ryn, Jan Vermeer
- C.
Jan Vermeer, Michel de Montaigne
- D.
Michelangelo, Picasso
Correct Answer
B. Rembrandt van Ryn, Jan VermeerExplanation
During this time period, the Netherlands experienced a surge in artistic and literary achievements, which was contrary to the Spanish belief. Two renowned Dutch painters who emerged during this period were Rembrandt van Ryn and Jan Vermeer. They made significant contributions to the flourishing art scene in the Netherlands, creating masterpieces that are still celebrated today. The other options listed do not accurately represent the Dutch painters of this time.Rate this question:
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- 18.
As time went on, European monarchs began to want more power for themselves, to become ________.
Correct Answer
absolute monarchsExplanation
As time went on, European monarchs desired to possess more authority and control over their realms, leading them to aspire to become absolute monarchs. Absolute monarchs held complete and unrestricted power, with no limitations from a constitution or other governing bodies. They sought to centralize power, diminish the influence of nobles and clergy, and exert their authority over all aspects of governance, including politics, economics, and society. This shift towards absolute monarchy marked a significant change in the balance of power and governance in Europe during this period.Rate this question:
- 19.
These absolute monarchs supposedly had the "_________", or the idea that God created the monarchy and the monarchy is God's representative on Earth. This way, the King or Queen only had to answer to God.
Correct Answer
Divine RightExplanation
During the time of absolute monarchies, the concept of Divine Right was believed, which meant that the monarchy was established by God and the ruler acted as God's representative on Earth. This ideology allowed the King or Queen to have ultimate power and authority, as they were believed to be chosen by God. As a result, they were not answerable to anyone except God, which justified their absolute rule and made them accountable only to a higher power.Rate this question:
- 20.
St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre was when the Catholics were slayed by the Huguenots.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false. The St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre was actually a targeted attack on the Huguenots (French Protestants) by the Catholics in France. It took place on August 24, 1572, and resulted in the deaths of thousands of Huguenots.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Catherine de Medici's daughter married ________. (One of the two names)
Correct Answer
Henry IV
Henry of NavarreExplanation
Catherine de Medici's daughter married Henry IV, also known as Henry of Navarre.Rate this question:
- 22.
Henry IV installed the ________. This law stated that Huguenots could live in peace with the Catholics.
Correct Answer
Edict of NantesExplanation
The Edict of Nantes was a law implemented by Henry IV that allowed Huguenots, who were French Protestants, to coexist peacefully with Catholics. This law aimed to bring an end to the religious conflicts in France and grant religious freedom to the Huguenots. The Edict of Nantes granted them the right to worship, hold public office, and fortified their rights to education and protection. It played a significant role in establishing religious tolerance and stability in France during the 16th and 17th centuries.Rate this question:
- 23.
King Henry IV's son was named ________. He had no desire to rule and appointed Cardinal Richeliu to take control over the affairs of France.
Correct Answer
Louis XIIIExplanation
King Henry IV's son, Louis XIII, was the one who had no desire to rule and appointed Cardinal Richelieu to take control over the affairs of France. This is evident from the information provided in the question.Rate this question:
- 24.
Because of Richeliu's thirst for power, they get involved in the __________.
Correct Answer
Thirty Years War
Thirty Year's WarExplanation
Richelieu's thirst for power led them to become involved in the Thirty Years War.Rate this question:
- 25.
Richeliu believed in a centralized government. He increased the power of the middle class through creating government agents that didn't consist of nobles.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because Richeliu, a French cardinal and statesman, did believe in a centralized government. He aimed to consolidate power in the hands of the monarchy and reduce the influence of the nobility. To achieve this, he created government agents who were not from the noble class, thus increasing the power and influence of the middle class. This policy helped to strengthen the authority of the monarchy and diminish the power of the nobles.Rate this question:
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- 26.
In French literature rose _________, or the idea that nothing can be known for certain.
Correct Answer
Skeptisism
SkepticismExplanation
The correct answer is "Skepticism". In French literature, the concept of "skepticism" or "scepticisme" is often explored, which refers to the idea that nothing can be known for certain. This philosophical viewpoint challenges the belief in absolute truths and encourages questioning and doubting established knowledge and beliefs.Rate this question:
- 27.
________ invented the essay, or a brief written work that expressed a person's thoughts and opinions
Correct Answer
Michel de Montaigne
Michel MontaigneExplanation
Michel de Montaigne is credited with inventing the essay, a short written work that expresses a person's thoughts and opinions.Rate this question:
- 28.
Rene Descartes was the Father of Modern Philosophy and invented the Scientific Method.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Rene Descartes is widely regarded as the Father of Modern Philosophy due to his significant contributions to the field. He played a crucial role in shaping modern philosophical thought by introducing the concept of skepticism and emphasizing the importance of reason and rationality. Descartes also made significant advancements in mathematics and science, including the invention of the Scientific Method. His approach to systematic doubt and reliance on empirical evidence laid the foundation for the scientific method that is still widely used today. Therefore, the statement that Rene Descartes was the Father of Modern Philosophy and invented the Scientific Method is true.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Louis XIV was _____ years old when he became king of France.
Correct Answer
14Explanation
Louis XIV was 14 years old when he became king of France. This indicates that he ascended to the throne at a very young age, which is historically accurate.Rate this question:
- 30.
______ took control of France while Louis XIV was young.
Correct Answer
Cardinal Mazarin
MazarinExplanation
Cardinal Mazarin took control of France while Louis XIV was young. Mazarin was a trusted advisor and minister to Louis XIV's mother, Queen Anne of Austria. After the death of Louis XIII, Mazarin acted as regent and effectively ruled France until Louis XIV came of age. He continued the policies and centralized power that Louis XIV would later adopt as king. Mazarin's influence and control over the government during Louis XIV's youth laid the groundwork for the absolutist rule that characterized his reign.Rate this question:
- 31.
Mazarin increased taxes on the nobles and limited their power, which was the opposite of what Richeliu did.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Mazarin did not increase taxes on the nobles and limit their power; rather, it was Richelieu who implemented these measures. Therefore, the statement that Mazarin did the opposite of what Richelieu did is false.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Loius XIV was the exact same as his mentor, Cardinal Mazarin. He limited the noble's power and created Intendants, which were similar to Richeliu's government agents.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The given statement is true because it states that Louis XIV was similar to his mentor, Cardinal Mazarin, in terms of limiting the noble's power and creating Intendants. This implies that Louis XIV followed in Mazarin's footsteps and adopted similar policies and structures in his governance. Therefore, the statement is accurate in asserting that Louis XIV was indeed the exact same as his mentor in these aspects.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Louis XIV's minister of Finance was ___________. He wanted France to be 100% self sufficient.
Correct Answer
Jean Baptiste ColbertExplanation
Jean Baptiste Colbert was Louis XIV's minister of Finance and he aimed to make France completely self-sufficient. He implemented various economic policies and reforms to strengthen the French economy and reduce dependence on imports. Colbert promoted industries, encouraged trade, and established colonies to secure raw materials. His policies focused on increasing domestic production, improving infrastructure, and developing a skilled workforce. Colbert's efforts contributed to the economic growth of France during the reign of Louis XIV and laid the foundation for its future prosperity.Rate this question:
- 34.
Colbert tried to improve the French economy in many ways. Some of these were: (check all that apply)
- A.
He lowered taxes on imported goods
- B.
He destroyed the guilds, allowing more businesses to arise
- C.
He offered tax breaks and money to French companies
Correct Answer
C. He offered tax breaks and money to French companiesExplanation
Colbert tried to improve the French economy by offering tax breaks and financial support to French companies. This would incentivize businesses to grow and invest, stimulating economic activity and potentially creating more jobs. By providing these incentives, Colbert aimed to boost the overall performance and competitiveness of French companies, ultimately contributing to the improvement of the country's economy.Rate this question:
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- 35.
The ______ is Louis XIV's nickname.
Correct Answer
Sun KingExplanation
Louis XIV was known as the "Sun King" because he chose the sun as his personal emblem and associated himself with the image of the sun. This nickname reflects his belief in his own power and authority, as the sun was seen as the center of the universe and the source of all life. Additionally, Louis XIV's reign was characterized by his absolute rule and the centralization of power, further emphasizing his comparison to the sun, which is the center of its own solar system.Rate this question:
- 36.
When Louis XIV invades the Netherlands, he is ____.
- A.
Not successful
- B.
Successful
Correct Answer
A. Not successfulExplanation
The given correct answer states that Louis XIV was not successful in invading the Netherlands. This implies that his invasion attempt was unsuccessful and he did not achieve his objective of conquering the Netherlands.Rate this question:
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- 37.
This attack of the Netherlands spurs on the _______, an alliance against France.
Correct Answer
League of AugsburgExplanation
The attack of the Netherlands by France prompted the formation of the League of Augsburg. This alliance was created in response to the aggressive actions of France and aimed to counterbalance its power. The League of Augsburg consisted of various European powers, including England, Spain, and the Holy Roman Empire. Together, they sought to protect their interests and maintain the balance of power in Europe by opposing French expansionism.Rate this question:
- 38.
Charles II, the ruler of Spain, was childless, so he promised the throne to Phillip of Anjou, Louis XIV's grandson. This brought the __________ in 1701.
Correct Answer
War of Spanish SuccessionExplanation
Charles II of Spain, being childless, made a promise to give the throne to Phillip of Anjou, who was the grandson of Louis XIV. This decision led to the outbreak of the War of Spanish Succession in 1701.Rate this question:
- 39.
The Treaty of Utrecht said that Spain and France can be unified as long as they dont attack other countries.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Treaty of Utrecht did not state that Spain and France could be unified as long as they didn't attack other countries. In fact, the treaty was a series of agreements signed in 1713-1715 to end the War of the Spanish Succession. It involved multiple European powers and aimed to establish a balance of power by limiting the expansionist ambitions of France and preventing the union of the French and Spanish crowns. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Loius XIV left France with huge _____ (
Correct Answer
debtExplanation
Louis XIV left France with a huge debt. This means that during his reign, he accumulated a significant amount of money owed by the French government. This could be due to various factors such as costly wars, extravagant spending on the royal court and palaces, or mismanagement of the economy. The large debt left behind by Louis XIV would have had long-lasting consequences for France's financial stability and future generations.Rate this question:
- 41.
Tension mounts when the Lutherans form a ________ and Catholics form a _________. (name one of the two)
Correct Answer
Protestant Union, Catholic League
Catholic League
Protestant Union Catholic League
Protestant UnionExplanation
The tension mentioned in the question arises when the Lutherans form the Protestant Union and the Catholics form the Catholic League. These two groups, representing different religious beliefs, form their respective alliances to protect and promote their interests during a time of religious conflict and rivalry. The formation of these alliances further intensifies the tension between the Lutherans and the Catholics.Rate this question:
- 42.
Ferdinand ruled ______, a Czech kingdom. They were largely Protestant and Ferdinand was Catholic.
Correct Answer
BohemiaExplanation
Ferdinand ruled Bohemia, a Czech kingdom. The people of Bohemia were predominantly Protestant, while Ferdinand himself was Catholic.Rate this question:
- 43.
After Ferdinand began to close down Protestant churches, the Bohemians revolted. This starts the _________.
Correct Answer
Thirty Years War
Thirty Year's WarExplanation
The correct answer is "Thirty Years War." After Ferdinand began to close down Protestant churches, the Bohemians revolted, which led to the outbreak of the Thirty Years War. This war lasted from 1618 to 1648 and involved many European powers. It was primarily a religious conflict between Protestants and Catholics, but it also had political and territorial motivations. The war resulted in significant devastation and loss of life, and it had a lasting impact on the balance of power in Europe.Rate this question:
- 44.
The ______ (religious group) win the Thirty Year's War.
Correct Answer
Protestants
Puritans
LutheransExplanation
The correct answer is Protestants, Puritans, Lutherans. These three religious groups collectively won the Thirty Year's War. The war was primarily fought between the Catholic forces and the Protestant forces, with various Protestant denominations, including the Puritans and the Lutherans, joining forces to defend their religious beliefs and gain religious freedom. Therefore, it was the combined efforts of these three groups that led to their victory in the war.Rate this question:
- 45.
_______ (country) benefits the most from the Thirty Year's War.
Correct Answer
FranceExplanation
France benefited the most from the Thirty Year's War because the conflict weakened its main rivals, the Habsburgs of Spain and Austria. France was able to expand its territory and influence in Europe as a result of the war. Additionally, France gained economic advantages through trade and increased its power and prestige on the international stage. The war also helped solidify France's position as a dominant European power in the 17th century.Rate this question:
- 46.
The ____________ was the treaty between the two opposing sides of the Thirty Year's War. They negotiated this treaty, a revolutionary way of making peace.
Correct Answer
Peace of WestphaliaExplanation
The Peace of Westphalia was a treaty that ended the Thirty Year's War. It was negotiated between the two opposing sides and is considered revolutionary because it introduced a new way of making peace.Rate this question:
- 47.
After the Thirty Year's War, there are ___ religious wars in Europe.
Correct Answer
0
no
none
no moreExplanation
After the Thirty Year's War, there are no religious wars in Europe. The Thirty Year's War was a conflict primarily fueled by religious tensions, and it resulted in significant devastation and loss of life. The war ended with the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, which established the principle of religious tolerance and marked the beginning of a shift towards secularism in European politics. Therefore, the answer options "0," "no," "none," and "no more" all indicate that there are no religious wars in Europe after the Thirty Year's War.Rate this question:
- 48.
Western Europe developed slower than Central Europe.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Western Europe did not develop slower than Central Europe. The statement implies that Western Europe developed at the same pace or even faster than Central Europe.Rate this question:
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- 49.
After the Hapsburg family lost the Thirty Year's War, they took back Bohemia and Hungary. The leader of the Hapsburgs at this time, ___________, ruled over these reconquered lands and the rest of the Hapsburg territories as an absolute monarch.
Correct Answer
Charles VI
King Charles VIExplanation
After the Hapsburg family lost the Thirty Year's War, they regained control of Bohemia and Hungary. The leader of the Hapsburgs at this time, Charles VI, ruled over these territories as well as the rest of the Hapsburg territories as an absolute monarch.Rate this question:
- 50.
King Charles VI's sucessor, ________, was dissaproved by many nobles. It took a lot of convincing by the King for others to recognize his heir as the actual head of the Hapsburg family.
Correct Answer
Maria TheresaExplanation
King Charles VI's successor, Maria Theresa, faced disapproval from many nobles. Despite this, King Charles VI had to put in significant effort to convince others to recognize Maria Theresa as the legitimate head of the Hapsburg family.Rate this question:
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