Civil War Assessment: Quiz!

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Civil War Assessment: Quiz! - Quiz

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Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    What lesson did the Union and Confederate armies learn at the First Battle of Bull Run?

    • A.

      The war was not going to be a short war like everyone thought- it was going to be long and bloody

    • B.

      The war was going to fought in the South

    • C.

      The war was going to be won by the South if the Union did not get a new commander soon

    • D.

      The war was expensive

    Correct Answer
    A. The war was not going to be a short war like everyone thought- it was going to be long and bloody
    Explanation
    The Union and Confederate armies learned at the First Battle of Bull Run that the war was not going to be a short war like everyone thought. Instead, it was going to be long and bloody. This battle, also known as the First Manassas, was the first major land battle of the American Civil War. Both sides expected a quick and decisive victory, but the battle's outcome proved otherwise. The Union's defeat at Bull Run made it clear that the war would be more prolonged and costly than initially anticipated.

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  • 2. 

    Lincoln in 1862 took over federal control of the railroads. Why?

    • A.

      Supplies could be moved easily throughout the Union controlled territory

    • B.

      Troops could move to battlefield site easily and quickly

    • C.

      He did not have to deal with privately-owned railroads to negotiate the best price for moving goods and services during the war- much faster and quicker way to move goods

    • D.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    D. All of the above
    Explanation
    During the Civil War, Lincoln took over federal control of the railroads for multiple reasons. Firstly, it allowed supplies to be easily moved throughout the Union controlled territory, ensuring that the army was well-equipped. Secondly, it facilitated the quick and efficient movement of troops to battlefield sites, enabling them to respond rapidly to enemy threats. Lastly, by taking control of the railroads, Lincoln eliminated the need to negotiate with privately-owned railroads for the best price for moving goods and services, resulting in a faster and more efficient transportation system for the war effort. Therefore, all of the given reasons are valid explanations for Lincoln's decision.

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  • 3. 

    Complete the following analogy Washington DC: _____________     Richmond, VA: Confederate Capital 

    • A.

      United States capital

    • B.

      Rebel captial

    • C.

      Both and A and B

    • D.

      None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. United States capital
    Explanation
    The analogy is comparing Washington DC to Richmond, VA. Washington DC is the capital of the United States, while Richmond, VA was the capital of the Confederate States during the American Civil War. Therefore, the correct answer is "United States capital" because it completes the analogy by identifying the respective capitals of each entity being compared.

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  • 4. 

    Select the years for the Civil War.

    • A.

      1861-1865

    • B.

      1845-1865

    • C.

      1900-1910

    • D.

      1860-1870

    Correct Answer
    A. 1861-1865
    Explanation
    The correct answer is 1861-1865 because these are the years that the American Civil War took place. This was a significant conflict between the Northern states (Union) and the Southern states (Confederacy) over issues including slavery and states' rights. The war resulted in the abolition of slavery and the preservation of the Union.

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  • 5. 

    Which of the following statements are true concerning the Emancipation Proclamation?

    • A.

      Lincoln announced this after the victory of Antietam

    • B.

      Did not outlaw slavery in the US

    • C.

      With this announcement, Lincoln will be able to add African American troops to the Union army

    • D.

      All of the Above

    Correct Answer
    D. All of the Above
    Explanation
    The Emancipation Proclamation was announced by Lincoln after the victory of Antietam. It did not outright outlaw slavery in the US, but it declared that all slaves in Confederate territory were to be set free. Additionally, with this announcement, Lincoln was able to recruit African American troops to join the Union army. Therefore, all of the statements mentioned are true concerning the Emancipation Proclamation.

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  • 6. 

    Which side held the most advantages to win the Civil War in 1861 when the war first began?

    • A.

      Union

    • B.

      Confederate

    • C.

      Border States

    • D.

      No one held the advantage- both sides were evenly matched in the beginning of the war

    Correct Answer
    A. Union
    Explanation
    In 1861, at the beginning of the Civil War, the Union held the most advantages to win the war. The Union had a larger population, more industrial power, and a stronger navy compared to the Confederacy. Additionally, the Union had control over the majority of the country's resources and infrastructure, including railroads and telegraph lines. These advantages gave the Union a stronger position to mobilize and sustain their war effort, which ultimately played a significant role in their eventual victory.

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  • 7. 

    What war strategy did the South use try to gain foreign support during the Civil War?

    • A.

      King Cotton Diplomacy

    • B.

      Trade restrictions

    • C.

      Bribing the French for their support

    • D.

      Blockade Runners

    Correct Answer
    A. King Cotton Diplomacy
    Explanation
    During the Civil War, the South used the strategy of King Cotton Diplomacy to try to gain foreign support. This involved the South's belief that their control over the cotton industry would be crucial in gaining the support of European countries, particularly Britain and France, who relied heavily on Southern cotton for their textile industries. The South hoped that by limiting cotton exports, they could create an economic crisis in Europe, forcing these countries to intervene in the war on their behalf. However, this strategy ultimately failed as Britain and France found alternative sources of cotton and did not intervene in the conflict.

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  • 8. 

    After what key event did NC decide to join the Southern war effort?

    • A.

      After the Republicans tried to bring an end to slavery

    • B.

      After the First Battle of Bull Run

    • C.

      Lincoln's call for troops after the attack on Fort Sumter

    • D.

      After the Battle of Gettysburg

    Correct Answer
    C. Lincoln's call for troops after the attack on Fort Sumter
    Explanation
    After the attack on Fort Sumter, Lincoln called for troops, which prompted North Carolina to join the Southern war effort. This event marked a turning point for the state's decision to support the Confederacy in the Civil War.

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  • 9. 

    The Emancipation Proclamation's main purpose would be:

    • A.

      Declared all slaves to be free in those areas controlled by the Confederacy

    • B.

      Immediately freed all the slaves in the United States

    • C.

      Called for an end to the Civil War

    • D.

      Called for only slaves to be freed in the Northern states

    Correct Answer
    A. Declared all slaves to be free in those areas controlled by the Confederacy
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "declared all slaves to be free in those areas controlled by the Confederacy." The Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War and it declared that all slaves held in Confederate territory were to be set free. It did not immediately free all the slaves in the United States, nor did it call for an end to the Civil War. Additionally, it did not specifically call for only slaves in the Northern states to be freed, but rather focused on the areas controlled by the Confederacy.

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  • 10. 

    Sherman targeted military and useable civilian resources to destroy the South's ability to fight and win the war. What type of war was this known as?

    • A.

      Blockade running

    • B.

      Anaconda Plan

    • C.

      King Cotton Diplomacy

    • D.

      Total war

    Correct Answer
    D. Total war
    Explanation
    The correct answer is total war. Total war is a type of warfare in which all resources, including military and civilian, are targeted and utilized to destroy the enemy's ability to fight and win the war. In the context of the given question, Sherman's tactics of targeting military and civilian resources in the South exemplify the concept of total war.

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  • 11. 

    When the Civil War began, what was the main purpose Lincoln gave for fighting this war?

    • A.

      To bring an end to slavery

    • B.

      To preserve the Union

    • C.

      To let the South know that he was the President and that he was in charge

    • D.

      Carry out total war and to destroy the enemy

    Correct Answer
    B. To preserve the Union
    Explanation
    The main purpose Lincoln gave for fighting the Civil War was to preserve the Union. This means that his primary goal was to maintain the unity of the United States and prevent the secession of the Southern states. While ending slavery eventually became an important objective during the war, it was not initially the main purpose stated by Lincoln.

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  • 12. 

    What NC city was important for blockade runner use-for most of the war?

    • A.

      Raleigh

    • B.

      New Bern

    • C.

      Wilmington

    • D.

      Charlotte

    Correct Answer
    C. Wilmington
    Explanation
    During the American Civil War, Wilmington, North Carolina, was an important city for blockade runner use. Located on the Cape Fear River, Wilmington served as a major port and was essential for the Confederacy's efforts to break the Union blockade. The city's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean made it an ideal location for blockade runners to smuggle in supplies and goods. Wilmington's strategic significance as a Confederate supply line persisted throughout most of the war, making it the correct answer to this question.

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  • 13. 

    What was the most significant issue that led the Southern states to break away from the Union?

    • A.

      State Rights

    • B.

      Slavery

    • C.

      Creation of the Republican Party

    • D.

      Desire to create and form own nation

    Correct Answer
    A. State Rights
    Explanation
    The most significant issue that led the Southern states to break away from the Union was the issue of state rights. The Southern states believed that the federal government was encroaching on their rights and that they should have the power to make decisions for themselves. This disagreement over the balance of power between the states and the federal government ultimately led to the secession of the Southern states and the start of the American Civil War.

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  • 14. 

    What is the main idea expressed in the Gettysburg Address?

    • A.

      The war must end quickly because causalities are too high

    • B.

      All men are equal

    • C.

      Slavery should end

    • D.

      The war should continue- total war was announced

    Correct Answer
    B. All men are equal
    Explanation
    The main idea expressed in the Gettysburg Address is that all men are equal. This is evident in the speech when Abraham Lincoln states that the founding fathers believed in the equality of all men, and that the Civil War is a test to see if a nation dedicated to this principle can endure. Lincoln emphasizes the importance of equality and the need to preserve it, highlighting the significance of the war in upholding this fundamental value.

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  • 15. 

    Who was the assassin of Lincoln?

    • A.

      John Adams

    • B.

      William Holden

    • C.

      John Wilkes Booth

    • D.

      Zebulon Vance

    Correct Answer
    C. John Wilkes Booth
    Explanation
    John Wilkes Booth was the assassin of Lincoln. He was a Confederate sympathizer and a well-known actor. On April 14, 1865, Booth shot President Abraham Lincoln at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. Lincoln died the following day. Booth's act was motivated by his strong opposition to the Union and his belief that killing Lincoln would help the Confederate cause. After assassinating Lincoln, Booth fled but was eventually tracked down and killed by Union soldiers. His actions had a significant impact on American history, as Lincoln's death had far-reaching consequences for the Reconstruction era.

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  • 16. 

    Why was the Battle of Vicksburg a turning point in the Civil War?

    • A.

      The South gained full control of the Mississippi River

    • B.

      The North gained full control of the Mississippi River

    • C.

      The South surrendered after losing the battle

    • D.

      The North surrendered weapons at this battle

    Correct Answer
    B. The North gained full control of the Mississippi River
    Explanation
    The Battle of Vicksburg was a turning point in the Civil War because the North gained full control of the Mississippi River. This was significant because it effectively split the Confederacy in two, cutting off vital supply lines and isolating Confederate forces in the western part of the country. Controlling the Mississippi River also allowed the Union to transport troops and supplies more easily, giving them a significant advantage in the war.

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  • 17. 

    The Presidential Election of 1860 marked a turning point for the United States. Why?

    • A.

      The Southern states felt helpless after Lincoln's election and fearful that slavery would end in the US

    • B.

      The Northern states decided to end slavery after Lincoln was elected

    • C.

      The Northern states asked the new western states to ban slavery after 1860

    • D.

      The Southern states decided to ban slavery after Lincoln was elected

    Correct Answer
    A. The Southern states felt helpless after Lincoln's election and fearful that slavery would end in the US
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that the Southern states felt helpless after Lincoln's election and fearful that slavery would end in the US. This marked a turning point because it led to the secession of several Southern states and eventually the start of the American Civil War. The election of Lincoln, who was openly against the expansion of slavery, heightened tensions between the North and the South and ultimately contributed to the dissolution of the Union.

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  • 18. 

    Which statement best describes the outlook of the US before the Civil War broke out:

    • A.

      States in the west were building railroads and the Northern states were all agriculturally based

    • B.

      The North based economies on agriculture and industry and the South based economies on industry

    • C.

      States in the West and the South were all based on agriculture

    • D.

      Northern states economies were industrial, Southern states based economy on agriculture

    Correct Answer
    D. Northern states economies were industrial, Southern states based economy on agriculture
    Explanation
    Before the Civil War broke out, the outlook of the US was that the Northern states had economies that were industrialized, while the Southern states had economies that were primarily based on agriculture.

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  • 19. 

    Who was the Governor of NC for most of the Civil War?

    • A.

      Vance

    • B.

      Holden

    • C.

      Davis

    • D.

      Lincoln

    Correct Answer
    A. Vance
    Explanation
    Vance is the correct answer because Zebulon Vance served as the Governor of North Carolina for most of the Civil War. He was elected in 1862 and re-elected in 1864, serving until 1865. Vance played a crucial role in leading the state through the challenges and hardships of the war, implementing policies to support the Confederate cause and mobilize resources. His leadership and efforts during this time made him a prominent figure in North Carolina's history.

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  • 20. 

    What area was known as the "Gibraltar of the South"?

    • A.

      Fort Macon

    • B.

      Fort Hatteras

    • C.

      Fort Fisher

    • D.

      Bennett Farmhouse

    Correct Answer
    C. Fort Fisher
    Explanation
    Fort Fisher was known as the "Gibraltar of the South" because of its strategic location and strong fortifications. Located near Wilmington, North Carolina, Fort Fisher protected the vital port of Wilmington during the American Civil War. Its position on a narrow peninsula made it difficult to attack, earning it the comparison to the famous fortress of Gibraltar. The fort played a significant role in the Confederate defense of the Southern coast, but was eventually captured by Union forces in 1865.

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  • 21. 

    Where did the last and final surrender of the Civil War take place?

    • A.

      Appomattox Courthouse, VA

    • B.

      Bennett Farmhouse, NC

    • C.

      Gettysburg, PA

    • D.

      Vicksburg, MS

    Correct Answer
    B. Bennett Farmhouse, NC
  • 22. 

    Who was the President of the Confederate States of America?

    • A.

      Thomas Jefferson

    • B.

      JeffersonDavis

    • C.

      Stonewall Jackson

    • D.

      Robert E.Lee

    Correct Answer
    B. JeffersonDavis
    Explanation
    Jefferson Davis was the President of the Confederate States of America. He served as the President from 1861 to 1865 during the American Civil War. Davis was a prominent figure in the secessionist movement and played a crucial role in leading the Confederacy. His presidency was marked by various challenges, including the struggle for recognition from foreign nations and the management of the Confederate war effort. Ultimately, the Confederacy was defeated, and Davis was captured and imprisoned for a brief period before being released.

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  • 23. 

    Which political party was against the spread of slavery into the new territories or states?

    • A.

      Democrat

    • B.

      Unionist

    • C.

      Republican

    • D.

      Whig

    Correct Answer
    C. Republican
    Explanation
    The Republican Party was against the spread of slavery into the new territories or states. This party was formed in the mid-1850s and its main objective was to prevent the expansion of slavery into the western territories. They believed that slavery was morally wrong and sought to limit its influence and eventual abolition. The Republican Party's stance on slavery ultimately played a significant role in the lead up to the American Civil War.

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  • 24. 

    What were the light, fast small ships that the Confederacy used to break up the blockade known as?

    • A.

      Ironclads

    • B.

      Blockaders

    • C.

      Ironclad Runners

    • D.

      Blockader Runners

    Correct Answer
    D. Blockader Runners
    Explanation
    Blockader runners were light, fast small ships that the Confederacy used to break up the blockade. These ships were specifically designed to be swift and agile, allowing them to navigate through the Union blockade and deliver supplies to Confederate ports. By evading the Union navy, blockader runners played a crucial role in sustaining the Confederacy during the American Civil War.

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  • 25. 

    What document did Lincoln draw inspiration from as he was writing the Gettysburg Address?

    • A.

      US Constitution

    • B.

      Articles of Confederation

    • C.

      Declaration of Independence

    • D.

      Treaty of Paris

    Correct Answer
    C. Declaration of Independence
    Explanation
    Lincoln drew inspiration from the Declaration of Independence as he was writing the Gettysburg Address. The Declaration of Independence is a foundational document in American history that proclaims the principles of equality and liberty. Lincoln referenced these principles in his address, emphasizing the importance of preserving the Union and ensuring that all men are created equal. By drawing inspiration from the Declaration of Independence, Lincoln sought to reinforce the ideals upon which the United States was founded and inspire the nation to continue the fight for freedom and equality.

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  • 26. 

    What reason did Sherman give the easier treatment of the state of NC during his March in 1865?

    • A.

      NC had Unionists support

    • B.

      The war had already ended

    • C.

      NC had paid off his troops to go easy on NC's people

    • D.

      NC was broke due to the lack of money

    Correct Answer
    A. NC had Unionists support
    Explanation
    Sherman gave the easier treatment to the state of NC during his March in 1865 because NC had Unionist support. This means that there were people in NC who were supportive of the Union cause and were not actively opposing Sherman's army. This support likely influenced Sherman's decision to show leniency and not cause unnecessary harm or destruction in the state.

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  • 27. 

    Which 2 battles marked the turning point towards Union victory in 1863?

    • A.

      Gettysburg, Bull Run

    • B.

      Bull Run, Fort Sumter

    • C.

      Gettysburg, Vicksburg

    • D.

      Vicksburg, Bull Run

    Correct Answer
    C. Gettysburg, Vicksburg
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Gettysburg, Vicksburg. These two battles were significant turning points in the American Civil War in 1863. The Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1-3, 1863, was the largest and bloodiest battle of the war. The Union victory at Gettysburg halted Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into the North, and marked a major turning point in favor of the Union. The Siege of Vicksburg, which took place from May to July 1863, resulted in a Union victory and gave the Union control over the Mississippi River, effectively splitting the Confederacy in two. These victories boosted Union morale and dealt significant blows to the Confederacy.

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  • 28. 

    What would be the best example of how a civil war can be defined according to a historian?

    • A.

      A group of people fighting each other that live in the same nation

    • B.

      Governments are created and land areas are taken over

    • C.

      Seek support from other nations

    • D.

      All of the above

    Correct Answer
    D. All of the above
    Explanation
    A civil war can be defined by a historian as a conflict in which a group of people within the same nation engage in fighting against each other. It is characterized by the creation of rival governments and the seizure of land areas by the warring factions. Additionally, seeking support from other nations is often a common feature of civil wars. Therefore, the best example of how a civil war can be defined according to a historian is "All of the above".

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  • 29. 

    What was the main purpose of the 13th Amendment?

    • A.

      Forgave the war debts of the Confederacy

    • B.

      Abolished slavery in the US

    • C.

      Lincoln gave his plan for reconstruction of the South

    • D.

      Gave voting rights to women

    Correct Answer
    B. Abolished slavery in the US
    Explanation
    The main purpose of the 13th Amendment was to abolish slavery in the US. This constitutional amendment, ratified in 1865, effectively ended the institution of slavery and prohibited its existence within the United States and its territories. It was a significant step towards ensuring equal rights and freedom for all individuals, regardless of their race or ethnicity. The amendment played a crucial role in shaping the post-Civil War era and laying the foundation for civil rights movements in the future.

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  • 30. 

    Which of the following documents do not connect with Abraham Lincoln?

    • A.

      Emancipation Proclamation

    • B.

      Gettysburg Address

    • C.

      13th Amendment

    • D.

      Declaration of Independence

    Correct Answer
    D. Declaration of Independence
    Explanation
    The Declaration of Independence does not connect with Abraham Lincoln because it was written and signed in 1776, more than 80 years before Lincoln became president. Lincoln's connection lies with the other three documents listed. The Emancipation Proclamation was issued by Lincoln in 1863, declaring that all slaves in Confederate territory were to be set free. The Gettysburg Address was a speech given by Lincoln in 1863, honoring the soldiers who died in the Civil War and emphasizing the importance of equality. The 13th Amendment was ratified in 1865, abolishing slavery in the United States.

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  • 31. 

    Where did General Lee surrender to General Grant? 

    • A.

      Petersburg, VA

    • B.

      Appomattox, VA

    • C.

      Gettysburg, PA

    • D.

      Vicksburg, MS

    Correct Answer
    B. Appomattox, VA
    Explanation
    General Lee surrendered to General Grant in Appomattox, VA. This was a significant event in the American Civil War, marking the end of the Confederacy's Army of Northern Virginia. The surrender took place on April 9, 1865, in the McLean House, where General Lee agreed to the terms of surrender outlined by General Grant. This event symbolized the beginning of the end of the Civil War and ultimately led to the reunification of the United States.

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  • Sep 07, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Feb 28, 2014
    Quiz Created by
    Michelle BYRD
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