Questionnaire On The American Revolution & Its Enduring Legacy
Survey conducted byThe American Revolution Center. 83% ofthose surveyed failed. Only 4 questions had a correct response from over 70% of respondents.
- 1.
Is the Bill of Rights part of:
- A.
The U.S. Constitution
- B.
The Declaration of Independence
- C.
The Gettysburg Address
- D.
The Articles of Confederation
- E.
Don’t know
Correct Answer
A. The U.S. ConstitutionExplanation
The Bill of Rights is part of the U.S. Constitution. It is the first ten amendments to the Constitution and guarantees certain fundamental rights and freedoms to the citizens of the United States. These rights include freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. The Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution in 1791, two years after the Constitution itself was ratified. It was added to address concerns about individual liberties and to ensure that the government would not infringe upon these rights.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The most important consequence of the Boston Tea party was:
- A.
The repeal of the tax on tea
- B.
The failure of the other colonies to support Boston’s action
- C.
The opening of negotiations between Britain and Massachusetts
- D.
The enactment by Parliament of the Coercive Acts
- E.
Don’t know
Correct Answer
D. The enactment by Parliament of the Coercive ActsExplanation
The Boston Tea Party was a protest against the British government's tax on tea. The act of throwing tea into the harbor was seen as a direct challenge to British authority. In response, Parliament passed the Coercive Acts, also known as the Intolerable Acts, which were meant to punish the colonists and assert British control. These acts included the closing of the Boston Harbor, the quartering of British troops in private homes, and the restriction of local government in Massachusetts. Therefore, the most important consequence of the Boston Tea Party was the enactment of the Coercive Acts by Parliament.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which document outlines the division of powers between the states and the federal government?
- A.
Declaration of Independence
- B.
Marshall Plan
- C.
U.S. Constitution
- D.
Homestead Act
- E.
Don’t know
Correct Answer
C. U.S. ConstitutionExplanation
The U.S. Constitution outlines the division of powers between the states and the federal government. It establishes a system of federalism, where certain powers are reserved for the federal government, while others are granted to the states. This division of powers helps maintain a balance between a strong central government and individual state autonomy. The Constitution also outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the federal and state governments, ensuring a system of checks and balances.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The last major military action of the American Revolution was at:
- A.
Bunker Hill
- B.
Trenton
- C.
Saratoga
- D.
Yorktown
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. YorktownExplanation
The last major military action of the American Revolution was at Yorktown. This was a significant battle that took place in 1781 between the American Continental Army, led by General George Washington, and the British Army, led by General Charles Cornwallis. The American and French forces successfully surrounded and besieged the British in Yorktown, Virginia, forcing Cornwallis to surrender. This victory marked a turning point in the war and ultimately led to the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which recognized the independence of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following rights is not protected by the Bill of Rights?
- A.
Freedom of Speech
- B.
Trial by Jury
- C.
The right to bear arms
- D.
The right to vote
- E.
Don’t Know
Correct Answer
D. The right to voteExplanation
The right to vote is not protected by the Bill of Rights. While the Bill of Rights guarantees several important rights such as freedom of speech, trial by jury, and the right to bear arms, it does not explicitly mention the right to vote. The right to vote is protected by other amendments and legislation, such as the 15th, 19th, and 26th Amendments, which specifically address voting rights.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following events most directly encouraged the states to send delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787:
- A.
The Whiskey Rebellion
- B.
The Boston Massacre
- C.
Bacon’s Rebellion
- D.
Shay's Rebellion
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. Shay's RebellionExplanation
Shay's Rebellion most directly encouraged the states to send delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787. This rebellion, led by farmers in Massachusetts who were facing economic hardships, highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and the need for a stronger central government. The rebellion demonstrated the inability of the national government to effectively respond to internal conflicts and maintain law and order. This prompted many states to recognize the need for a new constitution and ultimately led to the convening of the Constitutional Convention.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following was responsible for declaring America’s independence from Great Britain?
- A.
The Albany Congress
- B.
The Stamp Act Congress
- C.
The House of Commons
- D.
The Second Continental Congress
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. The Second Continental CongressExplanation
The Second Continental Congress was responsible for declaring America's independence from Great Britain. This congress was a meeting of delegates from the thirteen colonies and played a crucial role in the American Revolution. It convened in 1775 and eventually adopted the Declaration of Independence in 1776, officially severing ties with Great Britain and establishing the United States as an independent nation.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which of the following conflicts most directly led to the Stamp Act?
- A.
The War of the Roses
- B.
The War of 1812
- C.
The Mexican-American War
- D.
The French and Indian War (aka The 7 Years war)
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. The French and Indian War (aka The 7 Years war)Explanation
The French and Indian War, also known as the 7 Years War, directly led to the Stamp Act. This conflict between the British and French, along with their Native American allies, resulted in a massive debt for the British government. To help pay off this debt, the British imposed the Stamp Act in 1765, which required the colonists to pay a tax on printed materials. This act sparked widespread protests and resistance among the colonists, as it was seen as a violation of their rights and an unfair burden.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Benjamin Franklin epitomized which movement in colonial America?
- A.
The Enlightenment
- B.
The Great Awakening
- C.
The Loyalist movement
- D.
The Glorious Revolution
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
A. The EnlightenmentExplanation
Benjamin Franklin epitomized the Enlightenment movement in colonial America. The Enlightenment was a philosophical and intellectual movement that emphasized reason, science, and individualism. Franklin, a polymath and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, exemplified these ideals through his scientific experiments, inventions, and writings. He advocated for education, freedom of speech, and the pursuit of knowledge, all of which were central tenets of the Enlightenment. Franklin's contributions to society, such as his experiments with electricity and his role in drafting the U.S. Constitution, reflect his embodiment of the Enlightenment movement.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Who wrote the influential pamphlet called “Common Sense” which advocated independence from Britain?
- A.
Patrick Henry
- B.
Edmund Burke
- C.
Paul Revere
- D.
Thomas Paine
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. Thomas PaineExplanation
Thomas Paine wrote the influential pamphlet called "Common Sense" which advocated independence from Britain. Paine's pamphlet was published in 1776 and played a significant role in shaping public opinion towards the American Revolution. It argued for the need for American independence and criticized the British monarchy, making a strong case for self-governance. Paine's persuasive writing style and clear arguments made "Common Sense" widely read and influential, ultimately contributing to the movement for independence.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Who took detailed notes at the Constitutional Convention and is widely regarded as the “Father of the Constitution?”
- A.
Abraham Lincoln
- B.
James Madison
- C.
Winston Churchill
- D.
George Washington
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
B. James MadisonExplanation
James Madison took detailed notes at the Constitutional Convention and is widely regarded as the "Father of the Constitution." Madison's extensive notes, known as the "Madison Notes," provide valuable insights into the discussions and debates that took place during the convention. His contributions to the drafting and ratification of the Constitution were significant, earning him the title of the "Father of the Constitution."Rate this question:
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- 12.
Who was the first Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court?
- A.
Alexander Hamilton
- B.
John Marshall
- C.
Charles Evans Hughes
- D.
John Jay
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. John JayExplanation
John Jay was the first Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. He was appointed by President George Washington in 1789 and served until 1795. Jay played a crucial role in establishing the authority and independence of the Supreme Court. He also authored several landmark decisions that shaped the early development of American jurisprudence.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following are the inalienable rights stated in the Declaration of Independence?
- A.
Life, liberty and property
- B.
Honor, liberty and peace
- C.
Life, respect and equal protection
- D.
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness
- E.
Don"t Know
Correct Answer
D. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happinessExplanation
The Declaration of Independence states that individuals have the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These rights are considered fundamental and cannot be taken away or denied by any government or authority. The inclusion of "the pursuit of happiness" reflects the belief that individuals have the freedom to seek and strive for their own personal fulfillment and well-being. This phrase encapsulates the idea that people have the right to pursue their own goals and happiness, as long as it does not infringe upon the rights of others.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The US Constitution establishes which of the following forms of government in the United States?
- A.
A Direct Democracy
- B.
A Republic
- C.
A Confederacy
- D.
An Oligarchy
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
B. A RepublicExplanation
The US Constitution establishes a Republic form of government in the United States. A Republic is a system where the power is held by the people and their elected representatives, who are responsible for making and enforcing laws. This form of government allows for the protection of individual rights and promotes the rule of law. It is different from a Direct Democracy, where citizens directly participate in decision-making, and from a Confederacy, where power is held by individual states. An Oligarchy, on the other hand, is a system where a small group of people holds the power.Rate this question:
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- 15.
John Locke developed the concept of the “consent of the governed,” an important principle underlying the War for Independence, in a theory known as:
- A.
Natural Law
- B.
Law of Relativity
- C.
Common Law
- D.
Statutory Law
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
A. Natural LawExplanation
John Locke developed the concept of the "consent of the governed" in his theory known as natural law. According to Locke, individuals have certain natural rights that cannot be taken away by any government. He argued that legitimate governments are established through the consent of the people, who have the right to overthrow a government that violates their natural rights. This concept of natural law and the consent of the governed was influential in shaping the ideas of the American Revolution and the War for Independence.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of the following nations played an important role in helping the colonies defeat the British in the American Revolution?
- A.
Canada
- B.
Mexico
- C.
Denmark
- D.
France
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. FranceExplanation
France played an important role in helping the colonies defeat the British in the American Revolution. France provided military and financial support to the American colonists, including sending troops, supplies, and loans. The French navy also played a crucial role in the decisive American victory at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. France's involvement in the war weakened the British position and ultimately contributed to the American victory and the establishment of the United States as an independent nation.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which of the following phrases are the opening words to the US Constitution?
- A.
When in the course of human events
- B.
We the People
- C.
Fourscore and seven years ago
- D.
I have a dream
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
B. We the PeopleExplanation
The correct answer is "We the People." This phrase is the opening words to the US Constitution. It signifies the idea that the power of the government comes from the people and establishes the principles of democracy and self-governance.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following events came BEFORE the Declaration of Independence?
- A.
Founding of Jamestown, VA
- B.
The Civil War
- C.
The Emancipation Proclamation
- D.
The War of 1812
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
A. Founding of Jamestown, VAExplanation
The correct answer is the founding of Jamestown, VA. Jamestown, Virginia was established in 1607, while the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. Therefore, the founding of Jamestown occurred before the Declaration of Independence.Rate this question:
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- 19.
How many children do celebrities “Jon and Kate” have?
- A.
4
- B.
6
- C.
8
- D.
10
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
C. 8Explanation
The correct answer is 8. Jon and Kate are celebrities known for having a large family. They have a total of 8 children.Rate this question:
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- 20.
How many states were there after the United States won its independence from Britain?
- A.
7
- B.
13
- C.
15
- D.
21
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
B. 13Explanation
After the United States won its independence from Britain, there were 13 states. This is because the original 13 colonies that had rebelled against British rule became the first 13 states of the newly formed United States of America.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Who said the following: “From each according to his ability, to each according to his needs”?
- A.
George Washington
- B.
Barack Obama
- C.
Karl Marx
- D.
Thomas Paine
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
C. Karl MarxExplanation
The quote "From each according to his ability, to each according to his needs" is a famous statement associated with Karl Marx. This phrase encapsulates the principle of communism, which Marx advocated for. According to Marx, in a communist society, individuals would contribute to society based on their abilities, and the distribution of resources would be based on the needs of each individual. This quote reflects Marx's belief in creating a more equitable and just society.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Who was the first athlete to win a record 8 gold medals at a single Olympics?
- A.
Scott Hamilton
- B.
Kobe Bryant
- C.
Shannon Miller
- D.
Michael Phelps
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. Michael pHelpsExplanation
Michael Phelps is the correct answer because he is the first athlete to win a record 8 gold medals at a single Olympics. He achieved this feat in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, surpassing the previous record of 7 gold medals set by Mark Spitz in 1972. Phelps is a highly decorated swimmer and one of the most successful Olympians of all time.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Who famously sang the songs “Beat it” and “Billie Jean”?
- A.
Elvis
- B.
Bruce Springsteen
- C.
N*SYNC
- D.
Michael Jackson
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. Michael JacksonExplanation
Michael Jackson famously sang the songs "Beat it" and "Billie Jean". He was a highly acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and dancer. Known as the "King of Pop," Jackson's music and performances had a significant impact on popular culture. "Beat it" and "Billie Jean" were both chart-topping hits and are considered iconic songs in his discography.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What river did George Washington cross on Christmas Eve in 1776 in a surprise attack on the Hessian troops?
- A.
Rhine
- B.
Potomac
- C.
Delaware
- D.
Michigan
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
C. DelawareExplanation
George Washington crossed the Delaware River on Christmas Eve in 1776 in a surprise attack on the Hessian troops. This attack, known as the Battle of Trenton, was a pivotal moment in the American Revolutionary War. Washington's army successfully crossed the icy river and launched a surprise attack on the Hessian forces, achieving a crucial victory and boosting morale for the American troops. The crossing of the Delaware River has since become an iconic event in American history.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Who was the first Secretary of the Treasury?
- A.
James Monroe
- B.
Alexander Hamilton
- C.
Larry Summers
- D.
John Seward
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
B. Alexander HamiltonExplanation
Alexander Hamilton was the first Secretary of the Treasury. He was appointed by President George Washington in 1789 and served in this position until 1795. Hamilton played a crucial role in establishing the financial system of the United States, including the creation of a national bank and the implementation of economic policies to strengthen the young nation's economy. He also authored several influential reports on public credit and manufacturing, leaving a lasting impact on American economic policy.Rate this question:
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- 26.
In what state did the Valley Forge winter encampment occur?
- A.
New York
- B.
Delaware
- C.
Ohio
- D.
Pennsylvania
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
D. PennsylvaniaExplanation
The Valley Forge winter encampment occurred in Pennsylvania. Valley Forge was the site where George Washington and the Continental Army camped during the winter of 1777-1778. The harsh winter and lack of supplies made it a difficult time for the soldiers, but it also served as a turning point in the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 27.
When did the American Revolution begin? Was it in the . . .
- A.
1770s
- B.
1640s
- C.
1490s
- D.
1800s
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
A. 1770sExplanation
The American Revolution began in the 1770s. This was a period of significant political and social unrest in the American colonies, marked by events such as the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party. These events eventually led to the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the subsequent war for independence against British rule. The 1770s is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the historical timeline of the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Which side of the American War of Independence did American Indians support?
- A.
British
- B.
American
- C.
Both
- D.
Neither
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
C. BothExplanation
During the American War of Independence, American Indians had varied alliances and loyalties. Some tribes, like the Iroquois Confederacy, supported the British as they saw an opportunity to maintain their lands and autonomy. On the other hand, other tribes, like the Oneida and Tuscarora, sided with the American colonists, hoping to secure their own interests and protect their territories. Therefore, it can be concluded that American Indians supported both sides during the American War of Independence.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The westernmost military action of the American Revolution took place at:
- A.
St. Louis
- B.
Austin
- C.
Richmond
- D.
Atlanta
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
A. St. LouisExplanation
During the American Revolution, the westernmost military action occurred in St. Louis. This is because St. Louis was a strategic location situated on the western frontier of the American colonies. The British and their Native American allies launched attacks on American settlements in the region, prompting American forces to defend and retaliate. St. Louis, being a key settlement in the western frontier, became a focal point of military action during the revolution.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Who famously implored her husband to “remember the ladies” in drafting laws for the newly independent United States of America?
- A.
Martha Washington
- B.
Abigail Adams
- C.
Molly Pitcher
- D.
Phyllis Wheatley
- E.
Don't Know
Correct Answer
B. Abigail AdamsExplanation
Abigail Adams famously implored her husband to "remember the ladies" in drafting laws for the newly independent United States of America. As the wife of John Adams, the second President of the United States, Abigail Adams was a strong advocate for women's rights and believed that women should have a voice in the formation of the new nation's laws. Her letter to her husband in 1776 expressed her concerns and urged him to consider the rights and interests of women in the new government. Abigail Adams's plea for gender equality is seen as an important early example of women's activism in American history.Rate this question:
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