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Explanation The Maya civilization is credited with inventing the idea of the number zero. They developed a sophisticated numerical system that included a symbol for zero, which was a significant mathematical breakthrough. This concept of zero was then passed on to other civilizations, ultimately becoming an integral part of the number system used worldwide today.
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2.
Which was the Aztec capital city.
A.
Hogsmeade
B.
Mesa Verde
C.
Tenochtitlan
D.
Tikal
Correct Answer
C. Tenochtitlan
Explanation Tenochtitlan was the Aztec capital city. It was founded in 1325 and served as the political, economic, and cultural center of the Aztec Empire. Located on an island in Lake Texcoco, Tenochtitlan was known for its impressive architecture, intricate canal system, and bustling markets. The city was eventually conquered by the Spanish in 1521 and became the basis for modern-day Mexico City.
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3.
Mesa Verde was built by the
A.
Anasazi.
B.
Aztec.
C.
Maya.
D.
Mound Builders.
Correct Answer
A. Anasazi.
Explanation Mesa Verde was built by the Anasazi, an ancient Native American civilization that inhabited the southwestern United States. The Anasazi people constructed impressive cliff dwellings and villages within the cliffs of Mesa Verde in what is now Colorado. These structures were built using stone and mortar, and they provided shelter and protection for the Anasazi people. The cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde are a remarkable archaeological site and offer insights into the advanced building techniques and lifestyle of the Anasazi civilization.
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4.
Which was an ancient Mayan city?
A.
The Great Serpent Mound
B.
Mesa Verde
C.
Tenochtitlan
D.
Tikal
Correct Answer
D. Tikal
Explanation Tikal was an ancient Mayan city. It was one of the largest and most important Mayan cities, located in present-day Guatemala. Tikal was a major political, economic, and cultural center during the Classic Period of Mayan civilization. It was known for its impressive architecture, including large pyramids, temples, and palaces. Tikal was also a center for scientific and artistic achievements, with advancements in astronomy, mathematics, and writing. The city was eventually abandoned and rediscovered in the 19th century, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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5.
The Anasazi lived in what region of the U.S.?
A.
The southeast
B.
The northwest
C.
The southwest
D.
The northeast
Correct Answer
C. The southwest
Explanation The Anasazi lived in the southwest region of the U.S. This region includes present-day states such as Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah. The Anasazi were known for their impressive cliff dwellings and their advanced agricultural practices, such as building irrigation systems to farm in the arid desert environment. They left behind a rich archaeological record, including pottery, tools, and rock art, which provide insights into their culture and way of life.
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6.
At its height, Tenochtitlan had a population of about
A.
100,000.
B.
200,000.
C.
300,000
D.
150,000.
Correct Answer
B. 200,000.
Explanation Tenochtitlan, the capital city of the Aztec Empire, reached its peak population at around 200,000 people. This was a significant number considering the time period and the technological advancements of that era. The city was known for its impressive urban planning, advanced infrastructure, and architectural marvels such as the Templo Mayor. The population size demonstrates the city's ability to sustain a large number of people and highlights the power and influence of the Aztec civilization.
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7.
Present day Mexico City used to be known as
A.
Tikal
B.
Mesa Verde
C.
Tenochtitlan
D.
Four Corners
Correct Answer
C. Tenochtitlan
Explanation Tenochtitlan is the correct answer because it refers to the ancient capital city of the Aztec Empire, which is now present-day Mexico City. The Aztecs founded Tenochtitlan in 1325 and it became a major cultural, political, and economic center in Mesoamerica. The city was built on an island in Lake Texcoco and was known for its impressive architecture, intricate canal system, and vibrant markets. Tenochtitlan was conquered by the Spanish in 1521 and later destroyed, but its influence can still be seen in modern-day Mexico City.
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8.
Four Corners is a place where the borders of which four states meet?
A.
Colorado, Mexico, Arizona, Utah
B.
Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah
C.
Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, California
D.
Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Wyoming
Correct Answer
B. Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah
Explanation Four Corners is a place where the borders of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah meet.
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9.
Having more than you need of something
A.
Surplus
B.
Drought
C.
Kiva
D.
Tribute
Correct Answer
A. Surplus
Explanation Surplus refers to having more than you need of something. It implies an excess or abundance of a particular item or resource. This term is often used in economics to describe a situation where the supply of a product exceeds the demand for it. A surplus can also refer to a surplus of food or other resources, indicating that there is more than enough to meet the needs of a population.
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10.
A long period without rain
A.
Kiva
B.
Artifact
C.
Tribute
D.
Drought
Correct Answer
D. Drought
Explanation The correct answer is "drought". A drought refers to a long period without rain. This can result in a lack of water for crops, livestock, and human consumption, leading to severe water shortages and negative impacts on agriculture and the environment.
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11.
An object left behind by people who lived long ago
A.
Artifact
B.
Tribute
C.
Archaeologist
D.
Empire
Correct Answer
A. Artifact
Explanation An artifact is an object that is left behind by people who lived long ago. It can be a tool, weapon, piece of pottery, or any other item that provides insight into the culture and lifestyle of past civilizations. Archaeologists study artifacts to learn about the history and practices of ancient societies. A tribute refers to a gift or payment given to show respect or admiration, while an empire is a large political unit or state.
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12.
A culture that has developed complex systems of government, education, and religion
A.
Archaeologist
B.
Empire
C.
Civilization
D.
Tribute
Correct Answer
C. Civilization
Explanation The correct answer is "civilization". A civilization refers to a society or culture that has advanced and developed complex systems of government, education, and religion. It is characterized by its organized and structured way of life, including the establishment of cities, the development of writing systems, and the creation of art and architecture. This term is often used to describe ancient societies such as the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Mayans, who had highly developed social, political, and cultural systems.
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13.
A scientist who looks for and studies evidence from long ago
A.
Tribute
B.
Archaeologist
C.
Civilization
D.
Empire
Correct Answer
B. Archaeologist
Explanation An archaeologist is a scientist who looks for and studies evidence from long ago. They specialize in excavating and analyzing artifacts, structures, and other physical remains in order to learn about past civilizations and empires. Archaeologists use various techniques and tools to uncover and interpret historical information, providing valuable insights into ancient cultures and societies.
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14.
A payment to a leader in the form of valuable goods
A.
Tribute
B.
Artifact
C.
Kiva
D.
Empire
Correct Answer
A. Tribute
Explanation Tribute refers to a payment made to a leader in the form of valuable goods. It is a way for subordinate groups or nations to acknowledge the authority and power of a leader or empire. This payment is usually made as a sign of respect or to maintain a peaceful relationship.
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15.
A large area of different groups of people controlled by one ruler or government
A.
Civilization
B.
Artifact
C.
Tribute
D.
Empire
Correct Answer
D. Empire
Explanation An empire refers to a large area that is controlled by one ruler or government, consisting of different groups of people. This ruler or government has authority and power over the various regions within the empire. The term "empire" typically implies a centralized system of governance where the ruler or government exercises control over diverse territories and populations.
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16.
An underground room used by Native American men for religious ceremonies
A.
Drought
B.
Empire
C.
Kiva
D.
Tribute
Correct Answer
C. Kiva
Explanation A kiva is an underground room used by Native American men for religious ceremonies. This space is considered sacred and is used for various rituals and ceremonies. It is an important part of Native American culture and spirituality.
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17.
The Anasazi took prisoners to use as slaves and to sacrifice to Aztec gods.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement is false because the Anasazi did not sacrifice prisoners to Aztec gods. The Anasazi were an ancient Native American civilization that existed in the southwestern United States. While they did practice human sacrifice, it was not to Aztec gods as the Aztec civilization existed in a different time and place. Additionally, there is no evidence to suggest that the Anasazi used prisoners as slaves.
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18.
The Maya built monuments to ask their gods for success in war and for a good harvest.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation The Maya built monuments as a form of religious expression and to seek blessings from their gods. These monuments were often dedicated to specific deities associated with warfare and agriculture, reflecting the Maya's desire for success in war and a bountiful harvest. These structures served as a means of communication with the gods and were believed to bring prosperity and protection to the Maya civilization.
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19.
The Anasazi built an island city with bridges and causeways.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
20.
The Maya lived in present day Mexico and Guatemala.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation The statement is true because the Maya civilization did indeed inhabit present-day Mexico and Guatemala. The Maya civilization thrived from around 2000 BC to the 16th century AD in this region. They built impressive cities, developed a sophisticated writing system, and made significant advancements in mathematics, astronomy, and architecture. The ruins of their cities, such as Chichen Itza and Tikal, still stand as testament to their rich cultural heritage.
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21.
The Aztec lived in present day Arizona.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement is false because the Aztecs did not live in present-day Arizona. The Aztecs were a Mesoamerican civilization that lived in central Mexico, specifically in the area that is now known as Mexico City. They built a powerful empire and were known for their advanced agricultural practices, complex social structure, and impressive architecture. Arizona, on the other hand, is located in the southwestern United States and was inhabited by various indigenous groups, but not the Aztecs.
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22.
The Maya were called People of the Sun.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement "The Maya were called People of the Sun" is false. The Maya civilization, which existed in Mesoamerica from approximately 2000 BC to 1500 AD, did not refer to themselves as "People of the Sun." This title is more commonly associated with the Inca civilization of South America. The Maya had their own unique cultural and religious beliefs, including a complex pantheon of gods and a strong connection to astronomy, but they did not specifically identify themselves as "People of the Sun."
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23.
The Maya used symbols in place of written words.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation The Maya civilization did not have a complete writing system like the modern alphabets, but they did use symbols to represent words and concepts. These symbols were often combined to form sentences and were used in their artwork, monuments, and codices. These symbols, known as hieroglyphs, were a form of writing that allowed the Maya to record historical events, religious rituals, and other important information. Therefore, it is true that the Maya used symbols in place of written words.
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24.
The Aztec built apartment-style villages beneath cliffs.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement is false because the Aztec did not build apartment-style villages beneath cliffs. They built their cities on the shores of lakes and created artificial islands called chinampas. These chinampas were used for farming and were supported by wooden stakes driven into the lakebed. The Aztec also constructed their homes and buildings using adobe bricks and thatched roofs.
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