Facts You Should Know About U.S. History! Trivia Quiz
Are you educated about the history of the United States? Would you like to try this quiz? Regarding this quiz, you should know what year Christopher Columbus discovered America, who the United States' first president was, who authored the Declaration of Independence, and what the American flag stripes represent? This quiz will provide you with sound wisdom of the United States.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What year did Christopher Columbus discover America?
- A.
1620
- B.
1492
- C.
1942
Correct Answer
B. 1492Explanation
In 1492, Christopher Columbus discovered America. This is a well-known fact in history. Columbus, an Italian explorer, set sail on his voyage funded by Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain. He was searching for a new trade route to Asia but ended up discovering the Americas instead. This event marked the beginning of European colonization in the Americas and had a significant impact on the history of the world.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Who was the first President of the United States of America?
- A.
George Washington
- B.
Thomas Jefferson
- C.
Abraham Lincoln
Correct Answer
A. George WashingtonExplanation
George Washington was the first President of the United States of America. He served as the President from 1789 to 1797. Washington played a crucial role in the formation of the United States and was instrumental in establishing many of the precedents and traditions that are still followed by American presidents today. He was highly respected for his leadership during the American Revolutionary War and his commitment to the principles of democracy and the rule of law. His presidency set the foundation for the future success and stability of the United States as a nation.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Who was the sixteenth President of the United States of America?
- A.
Abraham Lincoln
- B.
John Quincy Adams
- C.
Millard Fillmore
Correct Answer
A. Abraham LincolnExplanation
Abraham Lincoln was the sixteenth President of the United States of America. He served as President from 1861 until his assassination in 1865. Lincoln is widely regarded as one of the greatest Presidents in American history, primarily for his leadership during the American Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery. His Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 declared that all slaves in Confederate territory were to be set free, and he played a crucial role in the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which permanently abolished slavery in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following states is NOT among the original thirteen colonies that formed the United States?
- A.
Rhode Island
- B.
Vermont
- C.
Delaware
- D.
Maryland
Correct Answer
B. VermontExplanation
The original thirteen colonies were the founding states of the United States of America. They were: Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts Bay, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Vermont was not one of the original thirteen colonies; it was the 14th state to join the Union in 1791.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Who wrote most of the Declaration of Independence?
- A.
Napoleon
- B.
Jefferson
- C.
Washington
Correct Answer
B. JeffersonExplanation
Thomas Jefferson wrote most of the Declaration of Independence. As one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Jefferson played a significant role in drafting this historic document. His eloquent writing skills and deep understanding of democratic principles made him the ideal candidate for this task. Jefferson's contributions to the Declaration of Independence helped shape the nation's values and ideals, making him a key figure in American history.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What happened on December 7, 1941?
- A.
World War II ended
- B.
Treaty of Versailles
- C.
Pearl Harbor
Correct Answer
C. Pearl HarborExplanation
On December 7, 1941, the event known as Pearl Harbor occurred. Pearl Harbor was a surprise military attack on the United States naval base in Hawaii by the Imperial Japanese Navy. This attack led to the United States' entry into World War II. The attack resulted in significant damage to the US Pacific Fleet and the loss of many lives. Pearl Harbor is considered a pivotal moment in history and is often remembered as the catalyst for the United States' involvement in the war.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What two countries fought in the American Revolutionary War?
- A.
America & Britain
- B.
America & France
- C.
Britain & France
Correct Answer
A. America & BritainExplanation
The American Revolutionary War was fought between America and Britain. This war occurred from 1775 to 1783 and resulted in the American colonies gaining independence from British rule. The conflict arose due to various factors, including taxation without representation and the desire for self-governance. The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which officially recognized the United States as an independent nation.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Who fought in the Civil War?
- A.
East & West
- B.
North & South
- C.
America & Mexico
Correct Answer
B. North & SouthExplanation
The Civil War was fought between the North and the South. This conflict took place in the United States from 1861 to 1865. The North, also known as the Union, consisted of states that remained loyal to the United States government. The South, also known as the Confederacy, comprised of states that seceded from the Union and formed their own government. The war was primarily fought over issues of slavery, states' rights, and the preservation of the Union.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What are the last 2 states admitted into the Union?
- A.
Texas and Hawaii
- B.
Alaska and Texas
- C.
Hawaii and Alaska
- D.
Texas and Oregon
Correct Answer
C. Hawaii and AlaskaExplanation
Hawaii and Alaska are the last two states admitted into the Union. Hawaii became the 50th state on August 21, 1959, and Alaska became the 49th state on January 3, 1959. Both states were admitted after a long process of territorial status and negotiations with the federal government.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What is the Union?
- A.
What the United States was known as during the Civil War
- B.
What the North was known as during the Civil War
- C.
What the South was known as during the Civil War
Correct Answer
A. What the United States was known as during the Civil WarExplanation
During the Civil War, the United States was divided into two factions: the Union and the Confederacy. The Union refers to the northern states, which remained loyal to the federal government and fought against the secessionist Confederate states in order to preserve the unity of the country. Therefore, the correct answer is "What the United States was known as during the Civil War."Rate this question:
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- 11.
What do the stars on the American Flag represent?
- A.
Presidents
- B.
States
- C.
Colonies
Correct Answer
B. StatesExplanation
The stars on the American Flag represent the states of the United States. Each star represents a state in the country, symbolizing the unity and representation of all the states that make up the United States of America.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What do the stripes on the American flag represent?
- A.
Presidents
- B.
Colonies
- C.
Colors of America
Correct Answer
B. ColoniesExplanation
The stripes on the American flag represent the original thirteen colonies that formed the United States. Each stripe represents one of these colonies, symbolizing their unity and contribution to the nation's foundation. The design of the flag serves as a reminder of America's history and the importance of the colonies in shaping the country's identity.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Who was the first Vice President of the United States?
- A.
Obama
- B.
Palin
- C.
John Adams
Correct Answer
C. John AdamsExplanation
The first Vice President of the United States was John Adams. He served as Vice President from 1789 to 1797 under President George Washington and later became the second President of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Congress is made up of what 2 houses?
- A.
Senate and House of Representatives
- B.
Representation Senate and House
- C.
Cabinet and Senate
Correct Answer
A. Senate and House of RepresentativesExplanation
The correct answer is Senate and House of Representatives. The Congress in the United States is composed of two houses, the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate consists of two senators from each state, while the House of Representatives is based on the population of each state. Both houses play a crucial role in the legislative process and have different powers and responsibilities.Rate this question:
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- 15.
How many Senators are there in the Senate?
- A.
50
- B.
435
- C.
100
Correct Answer
C. 100Explanation
There are 100 Senators in the Senate. The Senate is made up of two Senators from each state, regardless of the state's population. Therefore, the total number of Senators is fixed at 100.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Why are there 100 senators?
- A.
Only 100 seats available in the building
- B.
2 picked per state
- C.
So the votes would equal 100%
Correct Answer
B. 2 picked per stateExplanation
The reason there are 100 senators is because each state is represented by 2 senators. This ensures equal representation for all states, regardless of their population size. By having 2 senators per state, the total number of senators remains constant at 100. This allows for a fair and balanced distribution of power in the legislative branch of the government.Rate this question:
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- 17.
How many representatives are there in the House of Representatives?
- A.
100
- B.
435
- C.
200
Correct Answer
B. 435Explanation
There are 435 representatives because the law says there should be 1 representative for every 30,000 people living in one state.Rate this question:
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- 18.
How many states are there?
- A.
50
- B.
52
- C.
49
Correct Answer
A. 50Explanation
There are 50 states in the United States. This is a well-known fact and is commonly taught in schools. The 50 states include all the states that make up the country, such as California, New York, Texas, and Florida. Each state has its own government, laws, and regulations, and together they form the United States of America.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What is the capital of Massachusetts?
- A.
Boston
- B.
Springfield
- C.
Lowell
- D.
Cambridge
Correct Answer
A. BostonExplanation
Boston is the correct answer because it is the capital of Massachusetts. It is one of the oldest cities in the United States and has a rich history. Boston is known for its prestigious universities, such as Harvard and MIT, as well as its cultural institutions and sports teams. It is a major hub for education, healthcare, finance, and technology, making it an important city in the state of Massachusetts.Rate this question:
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- 20.
How many terms can a President serve?
- A.
One
- B.
Two
- C.
Unlimited
Correct Answer
B. TwoExplanation
A President can serve a maximum of two terms. This is stated in the question itself, where the options are "one," "two," and "unlimited." The correct answer is "two," indicating that a President can serve for a maximum of two terms.Rate this question:
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- 21.
How long is a term for a President?
- A.
2 years
- B.
4 years
- C.
6 years
Correct Answer
B. 4 yearsExplanation
The term for a President is 4 years because this is the standard length of a presidential term in many countries, including the United States. This allows the President enough time to implement their policies and initiatives, while also ensuring that there is regular turnover in leadership to maintain accountability and prevent any potential abuses of power. A longer term, such as 6 years, may lead to a lack of accountability, while a shorter term, such as 2 years, may not provide enough time for the President to effectively govern and implement their agenda.Rate this question:
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- 22.
What is the national anthem of the United States? (This is the song we sign at graduation.)
- A.
Star Spangled Banner
- B.
America the Beautiful
- C.
O Say Can You See
Correct Answer
A. Star Spangled BannerExplanation
The correct answer is Star Spangled Banner because it is the national anthem of the United States. It was written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812 and officially became the national anthem in 1931. The song is often performed at important events and ceremonies, including graduations, to symbolize patriotism and national pride.Rate this question:
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- 23.
How old do you have to be to vote in an election?
- A.
16
- B.
18
- C.
21
Correct Answer
B. 18Explanation
To vote in an election, you have to be 18 years old. This is the legal voting age in most countries, including the United States. At 18, individuals are considered adults and are granted the right to participate in the democratic process by casting their votes in elections. This age requirement ensures that voters have reached a level of maturity and understanding to make informed decisions about their elected representatives.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What is the name of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America?
- A.
Mayflower
- B.
Nina / Pinta / Maria
- C.
Lusitania
Correct Answer
A. MayflowerExplanation
The Mayflower is the correct answer because it is historically known as the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America. In 1620, the Mayflower set sail from England with a group of English Separatists seeking religious freedom. They landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and established the Plymouth Colony, which became one of the first successful English settlements in North America. The Mayflower has since become a symbol of early European colonization in America and is an important part of American history.Rate this question:
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- 25.
What are the first ten Amendments to the Constitution called?
- A.
Preamble
- B.
First Ten Amendments
- C.
Bill of Rights
Correct Answer
C. Bill of RightsExplanation
The first ten Amendments to the Constitution are called the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution to protect individual freedoms and limit the power of the government. It includes important rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to bear arms. These amendments were crucial in ensuring the rights and liberties of the American people and are an integral part of the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 26.
In what month do we elect a new President?
- A.
January
- B.
November
- C.
May
Correct Answer
B. NovemberExplanation
In the United States, a new President is elected in November. This is because the presidential election is held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. This date was established by law in order to allow enough time for the newly elected President to transition into office by Inauguration Day, which is on January 20th. Therefore, November is the correct answer for when we elect a new President.Rate this question:
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- 27.
In what month is a President inaugurated (sworn into office)?
- A.
January
- B.
November
- C.
May
Correct Answer
A. JanuaryExplanation
A President is inaugurated in January. This is because the United States presidential inauguration takes place on January 20th, following the presidential election held in November of the previous year. The President is sworn into office during the inauguration ceremony, which marks the official beginning of their term.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What is the President's official home?
- A.
Camp David
- B.
White House
- C.
State House
Correct Answer
B. White HouseExplanation
The correct answer is White House because it is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. It is located in Washington, D.C. and has been the home of every U.S. President since John Adams in 1800. The White House is where the President carries out their official duties and hosts foreign leaders and dignitaries.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Name three political parties in the United States.
Correct Answer
Democratic
Republic
Independent
Green Party
WhigsExplanation
The question asks for three political parties in the United States, and the given options include Democratic, Republic, Independent, Green Party, and Whigs. These are all valid political parties in the United States. Democratic and Republican are the two major parties, Independent refers to individuals not affiliated with any particular party, Green Party is a third party focused on environmental issues, and Whigs was a historical political party in the 19th century.Rate this question:
- 30.
How many Presidents have there been?
- A.
43
- B.
44
- C.
42
Correct Answer
B. 44Explanation
There have been 44 Presidents.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which President quit?
- A.
Nixon
- B.
Clinton
- C.
Reagan
Correct Answer
A. NixonExplanation
Nixon is the correct answer because he is the only President out of the three options who resigned from office. In 1974, Nixon resigned as President due to his involvement in the Watergate scandal, which led to charges of obstruction of justice, abuse of power, and contempt of Congress. His resignation marked a significant moment in American history and the only instance of a U.S. President quitting before the end of their term.Rate this question:
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- 32.
What was written in 1787?
- A.
Constitution
- B.
Bill of Rights
- C.
Mayflower Compact
Correct Answer
A. ConstitutionExplanation
In 1787, the Constitution was written. The Constitution is a document that outlines the fundamental principles and laws of a country, in this case, the United States. It was written during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia and is considered the supreme law of the land. The Constitution established the framework of the government, including the separation of powers, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the process for amending the Constitution. It is a crucial document that has shaped the political and legal systems of the United States for over 200 years.Rate this question:
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- 33.
What is the capital of the United States?
- A.
Maryland
- B.
Washington D.C.
- C.
District of Columbus
Correct Answer
B. Washington D.C.Explanation
The correct answer is Washington D.C. because it is the capital of the United States. Maryland is a state in the United States, but it is not the capital. District of Columbus is not a correct term, as the correct term is District of Columbia, which is where Washington D.C. is located.Rate this question:
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- 34.
What are the two longest rivers in the United States?
- A.
Mississippi and Michigan
- B.
Missouri and Mississippi
- C.
Ohio and Missouri
Correct Answer
B. Missouri and MississippiExplanation
The correct answer is Missouri and Mississippi. These two rivers are the longest in the United States. The Missouri River stretches for about 2,341 miles, making it the longest river in North America. The Mississippi River follows closely behind, with a length of approximately 2,320 miles. These rivers play a significant role in the country's transportation, economy, and ecology.Rate this question:
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Feb 28, 2025Quiz Edited by
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Jun 10, 2011Quiz Created by
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