1.
Which country was the first to gain independence in the 1950s?
Correct Answer
A. Ghana
Explanation
Ghana was the first country to gain independence in the 1950s. This was a significant milestone in African history as it marked the beginning of the decolonization process in the continent. Ghana's independence in 1957 inspired other African nations to fight for their own independence from colonial rule.
2.
The ethnic conflict between the Hutus and the Tutsis in the early 1990s was mostly in the countries of
Correct Answer
C. Rwanda and Burundi.
Explanation
The correct answer is Rwanda and Burundi. This is because the ethnic conflict between the Hutus and the Tutsis occurred mainly in these two countries during the early 1990s. The conflict resulted in a genocide in Rwanda in 1994, where an estimated 800,000 Tutsis were killed by extremist Hutus. Burundi also experienced ethnic violence during this period, with tensions between the Hutus and Tutsis leading to a civil war. Therefore, Rwanda and Burundi are the countries where the ethnic conflict between the Hutus and Tutsis was most prevalent.
3.
This is the highest mountain on the African continent.
Correct Answer
D. Kilimanjaro
Explanation
Kilimanjaro is the correct answer because it is widely recognized as the highest mountain in Africa. Located in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro stands at an impressive height of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers from around the world, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Kilimanjaro is known for its diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, making it a unique and breathtaking natural wonder.
4.
What was the purpose of the "Berlin Conference?"
Correct Answer
B. To divide Africa between the major European colonial powers
Explanation
The purpose of the "Berlin Conference" was to divide Africa between the major European colonial powers. This conference, held in 1884-1885, was organized by Otto von Bismarck, the Chancellor of Germany, and aimed to avoid conflicts between European nations over African territories. During the conference, European powers agreed on the rules for the colonization of Africa, resulting in the arbitrary division of the continent into various territories controlled by different European nations. This division ultimately led to the colonization and exploitation of Africa by European powers.
5.
The Harmattan is a hot, dry wind that blows out of the
Correct Answer
D. Interior of Africa.
Explanation
The Harmattan is a hot, dry wind that blows out of the interior of Africa. This wind is characterized by its high temperatures and low humidity, which can have significant impacts on the climate and environment of the region. The Harmattan is known for carrying large amounts of dust and sand, reducing visibility and causing respiratory issues. It is a seasonal wind that typically occurs between November and March, affecting countries in West Africa such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Niger.
6.
Benin and this modern country were once known as the "Slave Coast."
Correct Answer
A. Nigeria
Explanation
Benin and Nigeria were once known as the "Slave Coast" due to their significant involvement in the transatlantic slave trade during the 16th to 19th centuries. This region was a major source of enslaved Africans who were captured and sold to European slave traders. The term "Slave Coast" refers to the coastal areas of these countries where European powers established forts and trading posts to facilitate the slave trade.
7.
This is the largest city on the African continent.
Correct Answer
C. Lagos
Explanation
Lagos is the correct answer because it is the largest city in Africa by population. It is estimated that Lagos has over 14 million residents, making it the most populous city on the continent. Additionally, Lagos is a major economic and financial hub in Africa, with a thriving business and commercial sector. Its size and economic significance contribute to its status as the largest city on the African continent.
8.
This is the largest island near Africa.
Correct Answer
E. Madagascar
Explanation
Madagascar is the correct answer because it is the largest island near Africa. It is located off the east coast of the continent and is known for its unique wildlife and biodiversity. With an area of approximately 587,000 square kilometers, it is significantly larger than the other options listed. Sao Tome, Cape Verde, Mozambique, and Mauritius are all islands in Africa or near the continent, but they are smaller in size compared to Madagascar.
9.
The highlands in this modern country were one of the centers of domestication of plants and animals in Sub-Sahara Africa.
Correct Answer
C. Ethiopia
Explanation
Ethiopia is the correct answer because it is known for its highlands, which have a favorable climate for agriculture and domestication of plants and animals. The highlands of Ethiopia have a long history of agricultural practices and are considered one of the centers of plant and animal domestication in Sub-Saharan Africa. This region has been home to various crops such as coffee, teff, and barley, as well as domesticated animals like cattle and goats.
10.
Which one of the following diseases is caused by the tsetse fly?
Correct Answer
B. Sleeping Sickness
Explanation
Sleeping Sickness is caused by the tsetse fly. The tsetse fly is known to transmit a parasite called Trypanosoma brucei, which causes the disease. The fly bites an infected animal or human and ingests the parasite. When it bites another individual, it injects the parasite into their bloodstream, leading to the development of Sleeping Sickness. This disease primarily affects people in sub-Saharan Africa and is characterized by symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headaches, and eventually, neurological problems.
11.
__________ is famous for diamonds in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Correct Answer
B. South Africa
Explanation
South Africa is famous for diamonds in Sub-Saharan Africa. The country has a long history of diamond mining and is one of the world's leading producers of diamonds. The discovery of diamonds in South Africa in the late 19th century led to a diamond rush and the establishment of large-scale diamond mines. The country's diamond industry has played a significant role in its economy and has contributed to its global reputation as a major diamond producer.
12.
Zambia is most noted for exports of
Correct Answer
A. Copper.
Explanation
Zambia is most noted for its exports of copper. Copper mining has been a major industry in Zambia for decades, and the country is one of the world's top producers and exporters of copper. The mineral is abundant in Zambia, and its mining and exportation have played a significant role in the country's economy. Copper is used in various industries, including construction, electrical wiring, and telecommunications, making it a valuable commodity in the global market. Therefore, it is no surprise that Zambia is most noted for its exports of copper.
13.
What is the major purpose of the Kimberley Process?
Correct Answer
B. Eliminate the use of diamonds to finance armed conflict
Explanation
The major purpose of the Kimberley Process is to eliminate the use of diamonds to finance armed conflict. This international certification scheme was established in 2003 to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds, which are diamonds that are mined in war zones and sold to finance armed conflict against governments. The Kimberley Process requires participating countries to certify that their diamond exports are conflict-free, ensuring that the revenue from diamond sales does not fund violence or human rights abuses. By eliminating the use of diamonds as a source of financing for armed conflict, the Kimberley Process aims to promote peace and stability in diamond-producing regions.
14.
Which of the following is true of Sub-Saharan Africa?
Correct Answer
E. All of these are true.
Explanation
All of the statements provided are true about Sub-Saharan Africa. Sub-Saharan Africa has one of the highest average birth rates in the world, indicating a high fertility rate in the region. Despite this, the population density in Sub-Saharan Africa is lower than the global average, suggesting that the population is spread out over a larger area. Additionally, about 43% of the African population is under 15 years of age, indicating a relatively young population. Lastly, the overall population growth rate in Sub-Saharan Africa is 2% per year, which leads to a doubling of the population in approximately 29 years.
15.
This is the largest Christian denomination in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Correct Answer
A. Roman Catholicism
Explanation
Roman Catholicism is the largest Christian denomination in Sub-Saharan Africa. This is because Catholicism was introduced to the region during the colonial period by European powers, particularly Portugal and Spain. The Catholic Church established a strong presence in many African countries and has since grown in popularity and membership. The Roman Catholic Church has also invested heavily in education, healthcare, and social services in Sub-Saharan Africa, further contributing to its influence and appeal in the region.
16.
This is the largest country in population in Africa.
Correct Answer
D. Nigeria
Explanation
Nigeria is the correct answer because it has the largest population among the listed countries in Africa. With over 200 million people, Nigeria surpasses the populations of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Africa, Sudan, and Ghana.
17.
After World War I, who lost their colonies in Africa?
Correct Answer
B. Germany
Explanation
After World War I, Germany lost its colonies in Africa. As part of the Treaty of Versailles, Germany was required to give up its overseas territories, including its colonies in Africa. This was a consequence of Germany's defeat in the war and the reorganization of territories among the victorious powers. Great Britain, France, and Portugal were able to retain their colonies in Africa.
18.
Petroleum is the major mineral export from this country.
Correct Answer
A. Nigeria
Explanation
Petroleum is the major mineral export from Nigeria. Nigeria is known for its vast oil reserves and is one of the largest oil-producing countries in the world. The oil industry plays a crucial role in Nigeria's economy, accounting for a significant portion of its export revenue. With its rich oil resources, Nigeria has become a major player in the global petroleum market, making it the correct answer to the question.
19.
The Savanna Grasslands of Africa have
Correct Answer
B. A long dry season.
Explanation
The correct answer is a long dry season. The explanation for this is that the Savanna Grasslands of Africa experience a prolonged period of little to no rainfall, resulting in dry conditions. This extended dry season is a characteristic of savanna ecosystems, where the lack of precipitation creates a challenging environment for plant and animal life. The dry season is typically followed by a wet season, during which the grasslands receive rainfall and become lush and green. However, the question specifically focuses on the dry season, indicating that it is the prominent feature of the Savanna Grasslands in Africa.
20.
The first European settlers in South Africa originated from this country.
Correct Answer
E. The Netherlands
Explanation
The first European settlers in South Africa originated from the Netherlands. This is because the Dutch East India Company established a trading post in Cape Town in 1652, which eventually led to the colonization and settlement of the area by the Dutch. The Dutch settlers, known as Boers, played a significant role in the history and development of South Africa.