A History Of The Western Colonial Period Quiz
What do you know about the history of the western colonial period? When America was being colonized by the British, many regions thrive, and many things went wrong. Do you know some of the facts surrounding this period? Do take up the quiz below and get to see just how knowledgeable you actually are about the events.
- 1.
What did the New England Colonies have in common?
- A.
Long, hot summers and mild winters
- B.
Broad rivers, swamps, and wetlands
- C.
Broad coastal plains with fertile soil
- D.
Harsh winters and rocky, hilly land
Correct Answer
D. Harsh winters and rocky, hilly landExplanation
The New England Colonies were characterized by harsh winters and rocky, hilly land. This geographical feature made agriculture difficult, leading to a reliance on other industries such as fishing, shipbuilding, and trade. The harsh winters also influenced the colonists' way of life, forcing them to develop self-sufficiency and strong community bonds in order to survive. The rocky, hilly land provided natural defenses against potential threats and also limited the expansion of the colonies.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The people who settled in the Middle Colonies represented:
- A.
Many countries and cultures.
- B.
Debtors from England.
- C.
Pilgrims and Puritans.
- D.
Africans escaping slavery.
Correct Answer
A. Many countries and cultures.Explanation
The Middle Colonies were known for their diversity as they attracted settlers from various countries and cultures. Unlike the New England colonies, which were predominantly settled by English Puritans, and the Southern colonies, which were mainly settled by English aristocrats, the Middle Colonies saw a mix of immigrants from different European countries, including England, Germany, Scotland, Ireland, and the Netherlands. This diverse group of settlers brought with them their own traditions, languages, and customs, contributing to the multicultural nature of the Middle Colonies.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What feature made the Southern Colonies unique?
- A.
Shipbuilding centers
- B.
Large plantations
- C.
Town meetings
- D.
Quaker communities
Correct Answer
B. Large plantationsExplanation
The Southern Colonies were unique because they had large plantations. These plantations were primarily used for the cultivation of cash crops such as tobacco, rice, and indigo. The presence of these large-scale agricultural operations shaped the economy, society, and culture of the Southern Colonies. The plantations relied heavily on enslaved labor, which further differentiated the Southern Colonies from other regions. The abundance of land and favorable climate in the South allowed for the establishment of these large plantations, making them a defining feature of the Southern Colonies.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The Mayflower Compact, the Fundamental Orders, and town meetings all showed the determination of colonists to:
- A.
Build societies based on religious freedom.
- B.
Stop indentured servants from coming to America.
- C.
Govern themselves and solve their own problems.
- D.
Solve conflicts with Native Americans peacefully.
Correct Answer
C. Govern themselves and solve their own problems.Explanation
The Mayflower Compact, the Fundamental Orders, and town meetings all demonstrate the colonists' determination to govern themselves and solve their own problems. The Mayflower Compact was a written agreement among the Pilgrims to establish a self-governing colony in Plymouth. The Fundamental Orders, adopted by the Connecticut Colony, established a democratic government with a written constitution. Town meetings allowed colonists to come together and make decisions on local matters. These actions reflect the colonists' desire for self-governance and the ability to address their own issues without relying on outside authorities.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Virginians replaced indentured servants with African slaves for all of these reasons except:
- A.
Slaves were cheaper to buy than indentured servants.
- B.
Africans were hard workers and used to farming.
- C.
Slaves did not gain their freedom after a few years.
- D.
Africans' dark skin made it harder for them to escape to freedom.
Correct Answer
A. Slaves were cheaper to buy than indentured servants.Explanation
The given answer is incorrect because one of the reasons Virginians replaced indentured servants with African slaves was because slaves were cheaper to buy than indentured servants.Rate this question:
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- 6.
In most colonies, laws were made by:
- A.
Church leaders.
- B.
An elected assembly.
- C.
The king's governor.
- D.
Large landowners.
Correct Answer
B. An elected assembly.Explanation
In most colonies, laws were made by an elected assembly. This means that the colonists themselves had a say in the creation of laws and regulations, rather than having them imposed by church leaders, the king's governor, or large landowners. Having an elected assembly allowed for a more democratic process and representation of the people's interests in the decision-making process.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Nine out of ten colonists:
- A.
Worked in shops and stores.
- B.
Attended free public schools.
- C.
Came to America as slaves.
- D.
Lived on small family farms.
Correct Answer
D. Lived on small family farms.Explanation
The correct answer is "lived on small family farms." This can be inferred from the given options as it is the only choice that is not contradicted by any of the other statements. The fact that nine out of ten colonists lived on small family farms suggests that this was a common occupation and way of life for the majority of colonists during that time period.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Compared to today's cities, colonial cities were very:
- A.
Large
- B.
Small
- C.
Noisy
- D.
Quiet
Correct Answer
B. SmallExplanation
Colonial cities were small compared to today's cities. This is because during the colonial period, urbanization was not as advanced as it is now. The population was smaller, and cities were often built around a central core with limited expansion. Additionally, transportation and infrastructure were not as developed, limiting the size and growth of colonial cities. Therefore, colonial cities were generally smaller in scale and population compared to the larger and more populous cities we see today.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The Magna Carta, which was signed by King John in 1215, made it clear that:
- A.
Only Parliament had the power to impose taxes.
- B.
The people had the right to petition the government.
- C.
Even the king of England must obey the law.
- D.
The king did not have to share power with anyone.
Correct Answer
C. Even the king of England must obey the law.Explanation
The Magna Carta, signed by King John in 1215, established the principle that even the king of England must obey the law. This document limited the absolute power of the monarchy and introduced the concept of rule of law, ensuring that the king was not above the law and had to follow its provisions. It marked a significant shift in power dynamics and laid the foundation for the development of constitutional rights and limitations on the monarchy.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The English Bill of Rights was important to colonists because it:
- A.
Spelled out the rights they had as English citizens.
- B.
Gave them the right to elect members of Parliament.
- C.
Defined crimes and punishments for the colonists.
- D.
Ended the king's power to appoint colonial governors.
Correct Answer
A. Spelled out the rights they had as English citizens.Explanation
The English Bill of Rights was important to colonists because it spelled out the rights they had as English citizens. This document provided colonists with a clear understanding of their rights, such as freedom of speech, freedom from cruel and unusual punishment, and the right to a fair trial. It served as a foundation for the colonists' belief in individual liberties and helped shape their demands for similar rights in the American colonies. The English Bill of Rights was a significant step towards the establishment of democratic principles that would later influence the development of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The right to petition in the English Bill of Rights gave citizens the right to:
- A.
Choose how they should be punished for minor crimes.
- B.
Ask the government to do something or make a change.
- C.
Educate their children in church schools or at home.
- D.
Organize fairs with contests and entertainment.
Correct Answer
B. Ask the government to do something or make a change.Explanation
The right to petition in the English Bill of Rights allowed citizens to ask the government to do something or make a change. This means that individuals had the freedom to express their grievances, concerns, or requests to the government, seeking action or reform. It provided a mechanism for citizens to have their voices heard and participate in the decision-making process. This right was essential for promoting accountability, transparency, and citizen engagement in the governance of the country.Rate this question:
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- 12.
In the colonies, the simplest way to climb the social ladder was by:
- A.
Inheriting a title.
- B.
Getting an education.
- C.
Making a lot of money.
- D.
Attending church regularly.
Correct Answer
C. Making a lot of money.Explanation
In the colonies, making a lot of money was the simplest way to climb the social ladder. This is because wealth was highly valued and seen as a sign of success and status. By accumulating wealth, individuals could gain access to better opportunities, higher social circles, and more privileges. Inheriting a title, getting an education, and attending church regularly were also important factors in colonial society, but they were not as direct or effective in elevating one's social status as making a lot of money.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Unlike colonists from Europe, Africans came to America:
- A.
Hoping to build better lives.
- B.
To escape poverty and debt.
- C.
In search of religious freedom.
- D.
As slaves against their will.
Correct Answer
D. As slaves against their will.Explanation
The correct answer is "as slaves against their will." This is because during the period of colonization, Africans were forcibly taken from their homes and brought to America as slaves. They did not have a choice in the matter and were brought against their will to work on plantations and in other forms of forced labor. This was a brutal and inhumane practice that lasted for centuries and had a profound impact on the lives and history of African Americans.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of these is a leisure activity for colonial people?
- A.
Quiltmaking
- B.
Card Playing
- C.
Billiard Playing
- D.
All of above
Correct Answer
D. All of aboveExplanation
All of the activities mentioned - quiltmaking, card playing, and billiard playing - were indeed leisure activities for colonial people. Quiltmaking was a popular pastime for women, allowing them to showcase their creativity and skill. Card playing was a common social activity enjoyed by both men and women, providing entertainment and a chance to socialize. Billiard playing was also a popular leisure activity, particularly among men, offering a competitive and strategic game to enjoy. Therefore, all of the options mentioned were leisure activities for colonial people.Rate this question:
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Dec 29, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Sep 07, 2009Quiz Created by
Jdunnawa
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