1.
Which was the first of these U.S. states to be granted official statehood?
Correct Answer
A. New Jersey
Explanation
New Jersey was the first of these U.S. states to be granted official statehood because it was one of the original 13 colonies and ratified the United States Constitution on December 18, 1787. It became the third state to join the Union on December 18, 1787, following Delaware and Pennsylvania.
2.
Which of these U.S. states was the last to ratify the U.S. Constitution?
Correct Answer
C. Rhode Island
Explanation
Rhode Island was the last state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. This can be attributed to their concerns about the lack of a Bill of Rights in the Constitution. Rhode Island feared that without these explicit protections of individual rights, the federal government would become too powerful. However, after assurances were made that a Bill of Rights would be added, Rhode Island finally ratified the Constitution on May 29, 1790.
3.
Which of these states were granted official statehood the most recent?
Correct Answer
B. South Dakota
Explanation
South Dakota was granted official statehood most recently. The other options, North Dakota, Indiana, and North Carolina, were all granted statehood before South Dakota. Therefore, South Dakota is the correct answer.
4.
Which state was granted official statehood the most recent?
Correct Answer
B. Virginia
Explanation
Virginia was granted official statehood the most recent because it was the last state to join the Union. The question is asking for the state that became a state most recently, and Virginia fits this criteria.
5.
Which of the following U.S. states is also known as a "Commonwealth"?
Correct Answer
C. Kentucky
Explanation
Kentucky is known as a "Commonwealth" because it officially adopted the term in its constitution. While the term "Commonwealth" is often used interchangeably with "State," Kentucky chose to use "Commonwealth" to emphasize its historical and political distinction. This designation does not grant Kentucky any special legal status or privileges compared to other U.S. states.
6.
Which state got its name from an Iroquois word meaning "Happy Hunting Ground"?
Correct Answer
D. Kentucky
Explanation
Kentucky is the correct answer because it got its name from an Iroquois word meaning "Happy Hunting Ground." This name reflects the state's history as a hunting ground for Native American tribes.
7.
Which state is known as "The Old Line State"?
Correct Answer
B. Maryland
Explanation
Maryland is known as "The Old Line State" because of its nickname's historical origin. During the Revolutionary War, Maryland soldiers were referred to as the "Old Line" due to their bravery and steadfastness in battle. This nickname has since become synonymous with the state itself, representing its rich history and the resilience of its people.
8.
Whose state flower is the Black-Eyed Susan?
Correct Answer
D. Maryland
Explanation
Maryland is the correct answer because the Black-Eyed Susan is the state flower of Maryland. The Black-Eyed Susan is a yellow daisy-like flower with a dark brown or black center. It is commonly found in fields and meadows throughout the state and is a symbol of Maryland's natural beauty.
9.
Which U.S. state is home to more corporate headquarters than any other?
Correct Answer
A. Delaware
Explanation
Delaware is home to more corporate headquarters than any other U.S. state because it offers favorable business laws and tax regulations. Many companies choose to incorporate in Delaware due to its business-friendly environment, including its Court of Chancery specialized in corporate law. The state's laws provide flexibility and protection for shareholders and directors, making it an attractive location for corporations. Additionally, Delaware does not impose corporate income tax on companies that do not operate within the state, making it an appealing choice for many businesses.
10.
What U.S. state, known as the "Valentine State", was admitted to the union on February 14?
Correct Answer
D. Arizona
Explanation
Arizona is known as the "Valentine State" because it was admitted to the union on February 14th, which is also Valentine's Day. This makes it a fitting nickname for the state.
11.
Which state has a state flower and a state tree that share the same name?
Correct Answer
B. Virginia
Explanation
Virginia is the correct answer because it is the only state among the options that has a state flower and a state tree that share the same name. The state flower of Virginia is the American dogwood, and the state tree is also the American dogwood. This unique feature sets Virginia apart from the other states listed, making it the correct choice.
12.
Where is the Sock Capital of the World?
Correct Answer
C. Fort Payne, Alabama
Explanation
Fort Payne, Alabama is known as the Sock Capital of the World because it is home to the largest hosiery mill in the United States. The town has a long history of sock manufacturing, dating back to the early 1900s. The hosiery mill in Fort Payne produces millions of socks each year and employs a significant portion of the local population. The town's reputation as the Sock Capital of the World is well-deserved due to its prominent role in the sock industry.
13.
What is the eighth biggest state in the United States?
Correct Answer
D. Colorado
Explanation
Colorado is the correct answer because it is the eighth largest state in the United States. It is known for its diverse geography, including the Rocky Mountains, and it is also home to several national parks and monuments. Colorado's size and varied landscape make it an important state in terms of natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities.
14.
Which U.S. state has the highest percentage of people walking to work?
Correct Answer
A. Alaska
Explanation
Alaska has the highest percentage of people walking to work because it has a unique combination of factors that make walking a popular mode of transportation. Alaska has a relatively small population and a high concentration of urban areas, which makes it easier for people to walk to work. Additionally, the state experiences long daylight hours during certain seasons, making it more feasible for people to walk longer distances. The rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions in some parts of Alaska also contribute to the preference for walking as a means of transportation.
15.
What state has a spoon museum?
Correct Answer
D. New Jersey
Explanation
New Jersey is the correct answer because it is home to the Spoon Museum, which is located in Lambertville. The museum showcases a vast collection of spoons from different eras and cultures, providing visitors with a unique and educational experience.
16.
What U.S. state nicknamed "Yellowhammer State" has the Yellowhammer as its state bird?
Correct Answer
D. Alabama
Explanation
Alabama is known as the "Yellowhammer State" because the Yellowhammer is its state bird. The yellowhammer is a species of woodpecker that is native to Alabama. The nickname "Yellowhammer State" is derived from the Confederate soldiers' uniforms during the Civil War, which had yellow trimmings on their uniforms. This nickname has been associated with Alabama ever since.
17.
Which state in the USA has Borah Peak as its highest point and the Syringa as its state flower?
Correct Answer
B. Idaho
Explanation
Idaho is the correct answer because it is the state in the USA that has Borah Peak as its highest point, which is located in the Lost River Range. Additionally, the Syringa is the state flower of Idaho.
18.
Which state in the USA has Backbone Mountain as its highest point and the Black-eyed Susan as its state flower?
Correct Answer
A. Maryland
Explanation
Maryland is the correct answer because it is the only state listed that has Backbone Mountain as its highest point and the Black-eyed Susan as its state flower. Backbone Mountain, located in Garrett County, Maryland, is the highest point in the state at an elevation of 3,360 feet. The Black-eyed Susan, a yellow wildflower, was designated as the state flower of Maryland in 1918.
19.
Which state in the USA has Black Mesa as its highest point and the Mistletoe as its state flower?
Correct Answer
A. Oklahoma
Explanation
Oklahoma is the correct answer because it is the only state out of the options given that has Black Mesa as its highest point. Black Mesa is located in the far western panhandle of Oklahoma and reaches an elevation of 4,973 feet. Additionally, Oklahoma also has the Mistletoe as its state flower, further confirming that it is the correct answer.
20.
Which state in the USA has Spruce knob as its highest point and the Rhododendron as its state flower?
Correct Answer
D. West Virginia
Explanation
West Virginia is the correct answer because it is the state in the USA that has Spruce Knob as its highest point and the Rhododendron as its state flower. Spruce Knob is the highest peak in West Virginia, reaching an elevation of 4,863 feet. The Rhododendron is the state flower of West Virginia and is known for its beautiful pink and purple flowers.
21.
In what state is the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival held?
Correct Answer
B. California
Explanation
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is held in California.
22.
What state is the town of Santa Claus in?
Correct Answer
A. Arizona
23.
In which one of the following states is the town of Noel located?
Correct Answer
C. Missouri
Explanation
Noel is located in Missouri.
24.
In what state is the original Wheatleigh Hotel located?
Correct Answer
D. Massachusetts
Explanation
The original Wheatleigh Hotel is located in Massachusetts.
25.
Which U.S. state was the first to grow seedless oranges?
Correct Answer
A. California
Explanation
California is the correct answer because it was the first U.S. state to successfully grow seedless oranges. California's climate and soil conditions are ideal for citrus fruit cultivation, and its agricultural industry has a long history of innovation and experimentation. The development of seedless oranges was a significant milestone in the citrus industry, as it made the fruit more convenient and appealing to consumers. California remains one of the largest producers of oranges in the United States, including seedless varieties.