A Trip to Cuba Trivia Quiz Questions and Answers

How much did a barrel of wheaten flour imported from the United States cost in Cuba in 1860, after taxes?

Correct Answer: $8

Correct Answer Explanation: The Cuban government levied a substantial tax on imported flour, driving up the price for consumers. This illustrates the financial burdens imposed by Spanish colonial rule and the impact on daily life in Cuba.

What type of transportation was considered a symbol of social status in Cuba in 1860?

Oxcarts
Horse-drawn carriages
Trains
Boats

Correct Answer: Horse-drawn carriages

Correct Answer Explanation: Horse-drawn carriages, known as volantes, were highly sought-after for their elegance and style, making them a status symbol for those who could afford them. They were a fixture of Cuban society, serving as a means of transportation and a way to showcase wealth and social standing.

What type of fruit caused a digestive issue for Julia Ward Howe during her travels in Cuba?

Mangoes
Guava
Papayas
Pineapples

Correct Answer: Pineapples

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe described a negative reaction to pineapples after indulging in them at a plantation, highlighting the potential for unforeseen consequences when consuming unfamiliar tropical fruits. This reveals a humorous aspect of her journey and emphasizes the importance of caution when trying new foods.

What type of musical instrument was described as being used in Cuban music, and was made from a gourd filled with dry seeds?

Tambourine
Maracas
Xylophone
Guitar

Correct Answer: Maracas

Correct Answer Explanation: Maracas, a traditional Latin American percussion instrument, are described as being used in Cuban music, reflecting the cultural influence of Africa on the island. These instruments, crafted from gourds filled with seeds, produce a rhythmic sound that adds to the vibrant energy of Cuban music.

What was the primary purpose of the Beneficenza, a charitable institution visited by Howe?

To provide medical care for the poor
To educate orphaned children
To offer shelter to travelers
To house the elderly

Correct Answer: To educate orphaned children

Correct Answer Explanation: The Beneficenza served as an orphan asylum and foundling hospital, providing care and support for abandoned children. The author’s encounter with the Beneficenza highlighted the social challenges faced by vulnerable populations in Cuba.

What type of weather condition was described as affecting health in Cuba, and was referred to as a “President’s Message” by the locals?

Hurricanes
Heavy Rain
Tropical Heat
The Norther

Correct Answer: The Norther

Correct Answer Explanation: The Norther, a strong cold wind that swept through Cuba, could cause illness and discomfort, particularly for those already weakened by tropical diseases. The locals referred to it as a “President’s Message” due to its potential to impact health, drawing a humorous connection to political rhetoric.

What type of animal was raised and trained for fighting by a wealthy Cuban planter?

Dogs
Bulls
Roosters
Horses

Correct Answer: Roosters

Correct Answer Explanation: Cockfighting was a popular form of entertainment in Cuba, with significant financial stakes involved in these contests. This planter, with his 140 roosters, exemplified the passion and dedication that some Cubans had for this activity, highlighting a cultural practice that involved gambling and entertainment.

What was the average cost of a room at a hotel in Havana in 1860?

$1-$1.50 per day
$2-$2.50 per day
$3-$3.50 per day
$4-$4.50 per day

Correct Answer: $3-$3.50 per day

Correct Answer Explanation: Hotel costs in Cuba were relatively high compared to the United States, highlighting the expense of travel in the region and the costs associated with staying in more established areas like Havana. This further showcases the challenges faced by travelers in the era.

What term was used to describe a Cuban country stew?

Ajiaco
Arroz con pollo
Ropa Vieja
Empanadas

Correct Answer: Ajiaco

Correct Answer Explanation: Ajiaco, a flavorful Cuban stew, is mentioned in Howe’s account, offering a glimpse into the culinary traditions of Cuba. The use of local ingredients and the combination of Spanish and African culinary influences are evident in this dish.

What kind of dance was popular in Cuba in 1860, described as having a lively and energetic tempo?

Salsa
Tango
Contra-danza
Mambo

Correct Answer: Contra-danza

Correct Answer Explanation: Contra-danza, a lively and popular dance in Cuba, reflects the island’s vibrant cultural scene. This dance, with its energetic rhythm and emphasis on intricate footwork, showcases the unique blend of European and African influences that shaped Cuban culture.

What did Julia Ward Howe note as a common practice among enslaved people in Cuba that highlighted their resilience and desire for self-sufficiency?

Farming
Cooking
Selling Goods
Saving Money

Correct Answer: Saving Money

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe observed that enslaved people in Cuba were able to save money, accumulating small sums that reflected their desire for financial independence and their determination to improve their lives within the confines of their situation. This showcases a remarkable aspect of their resilience and ability to maintain a sense of autonomy.

Howe described a “flour tax” that was levied on imported flour. What was the reason for this tax?

To protect local flour producers
To generate revenue for the Cuban government
To discourage the consumption of flour
To promote the consumption of rice

Correct Answer: To generate revenue for the Cuban government

Correct Answer Explanation: The Cuban government imposed taxes on imported goods, such as flour, to generate revenue for its coffers. This practice exemplified the economic policies of the Spanish colonial administration, which aimed to extract wealth from the island.

What did Julia Ward Howe observe about the attitudes toward education for girls in Cuba?

Girls received a comprehensive education on par with boys.
Girls were primarily educated in domestic skills, like sewing.
Girls were encouraged to pursue higher education.
Girls were not allowed to attend school.

Correct Answer: Girls were primarily educated in domestic skills, like sewing.

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe noted that the education system in Cuba offered limited opportunities for girls, focusing on traditional domestic skills. This reflects the limited roles assigned to women in Cuban society at the time and the lack of emphasis on intellectual development for females.

Julia Ward Howe described the “Morro Fortress” in Havana as a formidable military stronghold. What was the main purpose of this fortress?

To protect the city from pirate attacks
To defend against potential rebellions
To house prisoners of war
To serve as a naval base

Correct Answer: To defend against potential rebellions

Correct Answer Explanation: The Morro Fortress, a massive structure built to defend Havana from attack, symbolized the Spanish government’s control over Cuba. Its primary purpose was to defend against rebellions and any threats to Spanish dominance, demonstrating the importance of maintaining military control.

What was the term used to describe workers brought from India under indentured labor contracts?

Coolie Workers
African Slaves
Indigenous Laborers
Spanish Colonists

Correct Answer: Coolie Workers

Correct Answer Explanation: Coolie workers, brought from India under indentured labor contracts, often faced harsh working conditions and exploitation. Their presence highlights the international nature of labor migration and the complex dynamics of colonialism.

What did Julia Ward Howe describe as a common problem that plagued travelers in Cuba due to the tropical climate?

Food poisoning
Mosquito bites
Heatstroke
Dengue Fever

Correct Answer: Mosquito bites

Correct Answer Explanation: Mosquitoes were a persistent nuisance throughout Cuba, requiring travelers to use mosquito nets for protection. The presence of these insects reflects the challenges of traveling in a tropical environment and the need for preventative measures against disease.

What was the term used to describe a Cuban coachman?

Calesero
Volante
Ayacco
Granizada

Correct Answer: Calesero

Correct Answer Explanation: Calesero, a term for a Cuban coachman, highlights the role of these individuals in transportation. They were essential for navigating Cuban cities and countryside, often driving volantes, the iconic horse-drawn carriages of the era.

Julia Ward Howe described the “Dominica” in Havana, which was known for its coffee and ice cream. What type of establishment was this?

A hotel
A restaurant
A cafe
A bar

Correct Answer: A cafe

Correct Answer Explanation: The Dominica was a bustling cafe in Havana, serving coffee, ice cream, and likely other refreshments. It represented a hub of social activity, attracting a diverse clientele.

What was a common complaint expressed by Julia Ward Howe about American hotels in Cuba?

They were too expensive.
They were too crowded.
They were not as comfortable as hotels in the United States.
They lacked proper sanitation.

Correct Answer: They were not as comfortable as hotels in the United States.

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe found the accommodations at American hotels in Cuba to be lacking in comfort, highlighting the challenges of finding suitable lodgings for travelers in the region. This underscores the limitations of infrastructure and the difficulties of navigating unfamiliar environments.

What was the term used to describe a Spanish cloak worn for protection from the elements?

Capa
Volante
Ayacco
Granizada

Correct Answer: Capa

Correct Answer Explanation: Capa, a Spanish cloak, provided protection from the elements, particularly in the cooler months. This garment reflected the influence of Spanish culture on Cuban society and the need for practical attire in a tropical climate.

How did Julia Ward Howe describe the Cuban government in her writings?

Ineffective and corrupt
Efficient and well-organized
Supportive of education and social reform
Focused on protecting the rights of enslaved people

Correct Answer: Ineffective and corrupt

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe’s account highlights the corrupt practices of the Spanish government in Cuba, exposing its oppressive policies and lack of investment in the well-being of the island’s inhabitants. This criticism underscores the challenges faced by Cubans under Spanish colonial rule.

What term was used to describe a half-frozen water ice, often enjoyed in Cuba?

Granizada
Ayacco
Capa
Volante

Correct Answer: Granizada

Correct Answer Explanation: Granizada, a refreshing half-frozen water ice, provided a welcome respite from the tropical heat in Cuba. Its popularity reflects the unique culinary traditions of the island and the adaptability of food to the climate.

What was the average cost of a volante in Matanzas, Cuba, in 1860?

$2 per day
$4 per day
$6 per day
$8 per day

Correct Answer: $6 per day

Correct Answer Explanation: The cost of renting a volante, a horse-drawn carriage, in Matanzas highlights the expense of transportation in Cuba. This cost reflects the economic realities of the time and the value placed on these vehicles.

Julia Ward Howe visited a plantation owned by Don Jacinto Gonzales, a wealthy planter. What type of crop was primarily cultivated on his plantation?

Sugar
Coffee
Tobacco
Cotton

Correct Answer: Sugar

Correct Answer Explanation: Don Jacinto Gonzales owned a sugar plantation, representing a key industry in Cuba’s economy. The production of sugar relied heavily on enslaved labor, making it a significant factor in the social and economic structure of the island.

Julia Ward Howe described a type of fever that was prevalent in Cuba, often caused by tropical conditions. What was the term used to describe this type of fever?

Calentura
Flue
President’s Message
Malaria

Correct Answer: Calentura

Correct Answer Explanation: Calentura, a type of tropical fever, reflects the health challenges faced by travelers in Cuba. The presence of such illnesses underscores the importance of preventative measures and the potential impact of the island’s climate on health.

What did Julia Ward Howe note about the availability of fresh produce in Nassau, the Bahamas?

It was plentiful and inexpensive.
It was limited and expensive.
It was of high quality and imported from the United States.
It was scarce and difficult to obtain.

Correct Answer: It was limited and expensive.

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe observed that Nassau, the Bahamas, imported most of its necessities due to limited local production. This highlights the reliance on external sources for basic goods and the challenges of self-sufficiency in this region.

What did Julia Ward Howe observe about the attitudes toward religion in Cuba?

It was a deeply held personal belief for all Cubans.
It played a significant role in daily life, but not everyone was devout.
It was largely ignored by the population.
It was strictly enforced by the Spanish government.

Correct Answer: It played a significant role in daily life, but not everyone was devout.

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe described the influence of the Catholic Church on Cuban society, but also acknowledged that not everyone practiced religion devoutly. This highlights the complexity of religious beliefs and practices in a diverse society.

Julia Ward Howe described a cultural practice in Cuba that involved gambling and often resulted in passionate competition. What was this practice?

Cockfighting
Bullfighting
Horse racing
Gambling at the lottery

Correct Answer: Cockfighting

Correct Answer Explanation: Cockfighting was a popular form of entertainment in Cuba, with significant financial stakes involved in these contests. This practice reflects a cultural tradition that involved both gambling and a love of animals, though it was often criticized for its cruelty.

Julia Ward Howe described a visit to a coffee plantation owned by Don Juan Torres. What was a significant detail she noted about the hospitality she received there?

The planter offered her a luxurious meal.
The planter gave her a tour of his plantation.
The planter invited her to stay overnight.
The planter presented her with a gift of coffee beans.

Correct Answer: The planter offered her a luxurious meal.

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe’s encounter with Don Juan Torres demonstrated the hospitality extended to visitors at Cuban plantations, showcasing the generosity and luxurious lifestyles of the elite. However, she also cautioned against overindulging in unfamiliar fruits.

What was the term used to describe the treacherous shoals off the coast of the Bahamas, notorious for shipwrecks?

The Bahamas Banks
The Florida Straits
The Gulf Stream
The Caribbean Sea

Correct Answer: The Bahamas Banks

Correct Answer Explanation: The Bahamas Banks, treacherous shoals off the coast of the Bahamas, posed a hazard to ships, causing numerous shipwrecks. This geographic feature played a role in the local economy, providing a source of income for those who salvaged goods from these shipwrecks.

What was the estimated worth of a game chicken, according to Julia Ward Howe?

$50
$100
$150
$200

Correct Answer: $100

Correct Answer Explanation: Game chickens, trained for fighting, were valuable assets in Cuba, reflecting the financial stakes involved in cockfighting. Their worth highlights the economic significance of this cultural practice.

Julia Ward Howe mentioned a wealthy planter who had accumulated a significant sum of money. How much money did this planter have?

$1,000
$2,000
$3,000
$4,000

Correct Answer: $2,000

Correct Answer Explanation: This planter’s significant savings, though earned through slave labor, highlights the economic potential of plantation ownership in Cuba. The accumulation of such wealth reflected the social and economic hierarchy of the time.

What was the average cost of a four-wheeled carriage in Matanzas, Cuba, in 1860?

$1 per hour
$2 per hour
$3 per hour
$4 per hour

Correct Answer: $2 per hour

Correct Answer Explanation: The cost of renting a four-wheeled carriage in Matanzas, compared to the cost of a volante, highlights the differences in luxury and affordability. This showcases the variety of options available for transportation in Cuba and the differences in cost.

What did Julia Ward Howe observe about the treatment of enslaved people in Cuba, comparing it to the United States?

It was considered more humane than in the United States.
It was similar to the treatment of enslaved people in the United States.
It was considered harsher than in the United States.
It was viewed as more equal and just than in the United States.

Correct Answer: It was considered more humane than in the United States.

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe noted that Cuban slave laws, while still oppressive, were viewed as more humane than those in the United States. However, the author also observed that these laws were not always effectively enforced, leaving enslaved people vulnerable to abuse.

Julia Ward Howe noted that the price of teapots varied significantly between Boston and San Antonio, Cuba. What was the price of a teapot in San Antonio?

$0.50
$1.00
$1.50
$2.00

Correct Answer: $1.00

Correct Answer Explanation: The difference in price between Boston and San Antonio illustrates the impact of tariffs and the costs associated with transporting goods across regions. It also highlights the economic disparities between Cuba and the United States.

Julia Ward Howe encountered a young Cuban woman named Maria Luisa. What did Howe observe about the social expectations placed on women in Cuban society?

They were free to move about as they pleased.
They were expected to be chaperoned when out in public.
They had access to education and employment opportunities.
They were encouraged to pursue careers in the arts.

Correct Answer: They were expected to be chaperoned when out in public.

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe noted that Cuban women were expected to be chaperoned when out in public, reflecting the social restrictions placed on women and the importance of maintaining a certain level of decorum. This showcases the limitations on women’s freedom of movement in Cuban society.

Julia Ward Howe described a common exclamation used by Cubans, often expressing surprise or excitement. What was this exclamation?

Ay, Caramba!
Buenos noches!
Muy bonito!
Nada!

Correct Answer: Ay, Caramba!

Correct Answer Explanation: “Ay, Caramba!” is a common Spanish exclamation used to express surprise, excitement, or frustration. Its use reflects the influence of the Spanish language on Cuban culture and provides a glimpse into everyday expressions used by the islanders.

What did Julia Ward Howe describe as a contributing factor to the high price of fish in Cuba?

A monopoly held by a single individual
A shortage of fish due to overfishing
High taxes imposed on fishermen
A lack of demand for fish

Correct Answer: A monopoly held by a single individual

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe described a monopoly held by a single individual, Señor Marti, who controlled all the fish caught in Cuba. This created a scarcity and drove up prices, highlighting the impact of monopolies and the potential for exploitation within the Cuban economy.

What was the approximate weekly wage for a slave working on a sugar plantation in Cuba?

$10
$25
$50
$100

Correct Answer: $25

Correct Answer Explanation: The weekly wages for a slave working on a sugar plantation reflect the low value placed on their labor and the exploitation inherent in the system of slavery. This highlights the economic realities of the time and the disparity in compensation between enslaved people and their owners.

What was the estimated cost of a slave child at birth in Cuba?

Correct Answer: $30

Correct Answer Explanation: The price of a slave child at birth underscores the dehumanization of slavery and the commodification of human life. This practice reflected the economic realities of the slave trade and the value assigned to human beings as property.

What did Julia Ward Howe describe as a contributing factor to the lack of development in Cuban arts and culture?

A lack of government support
A lack of skilled artists
A lack of appreciation for the arts
A lack of access to materials

Correct Answer: A lack of appreciation for the arts

Correct Answer Explanation: Howe noted that Cuban society did not place a high value on the arts, with a lack of appreciation for visual arts and a focus on musical forms that were often considered noisy or repetitive. This reflects a cultural bias toward certain art forms and the limitations imposed on artistic expression in Cuba.

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