1.
Mardi Gras in America was begun in New Orleans.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because Mardi Gras was not begun in New Orleans. The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced back to medieval Europe, specifically to the Christian holiday of "Carnival." It was brought to America by French settlers in the late 17th century and has since become associated with New Orleans due to the city's vibrant and elaborate celebrations. However, Mardi Gras itself did not begin in New Orleans.
2.
Which of the following is not one of New Orleans' Mardi Gras colors?
Correct Answer
C. Blue
Explanation
Blue is not one of New Orleans' Mardi Gras colors. The traditional colors of Mardi Gras in New Orleans are green, yellow, and purple, which represent faith, power, and justice respectively. Blue is not typically associated with Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans.
3.
Which of the New Orleans Mardi Gras colors is not a Mobilian Mardi Gras color?
Correct Answer
D. Green
Explanation
Green is not a Mobilian Mardi Gras color. The traditional Mardi Gras colors in Mobile, Alabama, are purple, gold, and white. Green is not one of the official colors associated with the Mobile Mardi Gras celebration.
4.
What medieval tradition can Mardi Gras be traced back to?
Correct Answer
A. Feasting before the arrival of Lent.
Explanation
Mardi Gras can be traced back to the medieval tradition of feasting before the arrival of Lent. This tradition originated in Europe and was brought to the New World by French settlers. Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is the last day of indulgence before the start of the Christian season of Lent, during which fasting and other forms of self-denial are observed. The feasting and celebration of Mardi Gras allowed people to indulge in rich foods and festivities before the period of abstinence and reflection that Lent represents.
5.
What does the French expression 'Mardi Gras' literally translate to in English?
Correct Answer
Fat Tuesday
Explanation
(two words)
6.
What is the name of the first mystic society, created in 1830?
Correct Answer
C. Cowbellion de Rakin Society
Explanation
The correct answer is Cowbellion de Rakin Society. This was the first mystic society created in 1830.
7.
When did this original mystic society hold its parade?
Correct Answer
A. New Year's Eve
Explanation
The original mystic society held its parade on New Year's Eve.
8.
How did the Spanish add their touch to the French Mardi Gras?
Correct Answer
C. By holding lighted torch parades.
Explanation
The Spanish added their touch to the French Mardi Gras by holding lighted torch parades. This tradition of marching with torches added a unique and vibrant element to the festivities, creating a visually stunning spectacle for the participants and spectators. The lighted torch parades became a distinctive feature of the Spanish influence on the French Mardi Gras celebration.
9.
Which of the following was New Orleans' first mystic society?
Correct Answer
B. Crewe of Comos
Explanation
Crewe of Comos was New Orleans' first mystic society because it is the oldest and most well-known of the four options listed. The society was founded in 1857 and is known for its elaborate Mardi Gras parades and balls. The other options, Order of Inca, Comic Cowboys, and Crewe of Columbus, may also be Mardi Gras organizations in New Orleans, but they were not the first mystic society established in the city.
10.
Which of the following individuals gained fame for reviving Mardi Gras after the Civil War?
Correct Answer
D. Joseph Cain
Explanation
Joseph Cain gained fame for reviving Mardi Gras after the Civil War.
11.
Which of the following societies did Joseph Cain found?
Correct Answer
B. Order of Myths
Explanation
Joseph Cain founded the Order of Myths society.
12.
What was the first black mystic society in Mobile?
Correct Answer
B. Order of Doves
Explanation
The correct answer is Order of Doves. The Order of Doves was the first black mystic society in Mobile. Mystic societies are organizations that participate in Mardi Gras celebrations, and the Order of Doves was formed in 1894. They played a significant role in the African American community, promoting unity and cultural pride. They would organize parades and events during Mardi Gras, showcasing their rich traditions and heritage. The Order of Doves paved the way for other black mystic societies in Mobile and contributed to the diversity and inclusivity of Mardi Gras celebrations in the city.
13.
Which of the following was Mobile's first women's society?
Correct Answer
B. Polka Dots
Explanation
Polka Dots was Mobile's first women's society because it is the only option given that specifically mentions a women's society. The other options, Order of Athena, Le Krewe de Bienville, and Mystical Ladies, do not indicate that they are women's societies. Therefore, Polka Dots is the correct answer.
14.
What is Mardi Gras known as in the Christian calendar?
Correct Answer
A. Shrove Tuesday
Explanation
Mardi Gras is known as Shrove Tuesday in the Christian calendar. This day marks the last day before the Lenten season begins, which is a period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter. Shrove Tuesday is traditionally a time for indulgence and feasting before the more solemn observances of Lent. It is also known as "Fat Tuesday" or "Pancake Day" in some cultures, where people consume rich foods before the fasting period begins.
15.
What Mobilian mystic society rides aboard floats that are decorated with sarcastic remarks and drawings and rarely throws candy and trinkets?
Correct Answer
C. Comic Cowboys
Explanation
The correct answer is Comic Cowboys. The Comic Cowboys is a Mobilian mystic society known for their floats that are decorated with sarcastic remarks and drawings. Unlike other mystic societies, they rarely throw candy and trinkets during their parades.