Alaska Days with John Muir Trivia Quiz Questions and Answers

What was the name of the potent form of fermented liquor invented by the Hootz-noo tribe of Tlingit Indians?

  • Hootz-noo Rum
  • Tlingit Brew
  • Alaskan Hooch
  • Potlatch Potion

Correct Answer: Alaskan Hooch

Correct Answer Explanation: The Hootz-noo tribe, known for their strong cultural identity and traditions, created a unique alcoholic beverage they called “hooch” made from molasses, dried fruit, and spices.

What was the name of the author’s canoe captain who tragically died at the hands of the Hootz-noo tribe?

  • Tow-a-att
  • Stickeen
  • Hootz-too
  • Kladushu

Correct Answer: Tow-a-att

Correct Answer Explanation: Tow-a-att, the author’s trusted canoe captain and a devout Christian, faced a tragic demise at the hands of the Hootz-noo tribe. His death highlights the violence and unrest that existed in Alaska during this period.

What was the name of the U.S. Revenue Cutter that served as a sign of authority in Alaska during this time?

  • The Jamestown
  • The George W. Elder
  • The Harriman
  • The White Pass

Correct Answer: The Jamestown

Correct Answer Explanation: The U.S. Revenue Cutter Jamestown was a prominent presence in Alaska during the late 19th century, representing the authority of the United States government. It was particularly active in surveying and charting the uncharted waters of Alaska.

What was the term used to refer to newcomers to Alaska, particularly gold prospectors during the Klondike gold rush?

  • Cheechakoes
  • Tlingit
  • Hootz-noo
  • Kladushu

Correct Answer: Cheechakoes

Correct Answer Explanation: “Cheechakoes” became the common term used to describe those new to Alaska, especially during the gold rush era. It was often used to distinguish them from seasoned residents, the “Sourdoughs.”

Which prominent glacier, unlike most others in Alaska at the time, was advancing instead of receding?

  • Taylor Glacier
  • Muir Glacier
  • Young Glacier
  • The Lost Glacier

Correct Answer: Taylor Glacier

Correct Answer Explanation: While many Alaskan glaciers were experiencing retreat, Taylor Glacier, with its powerful forces of glacial movement, was advancing at an impressive rate, demonstrating the dynamic nature of these geological formations.

What was the name of the large brown bear native to Southeast Alaska that was rarely hunted by the Tlingit people?

  • Hootz Bear
  • Tlingit Bear
  • Alaskan Brown Bear
  • Glacier Bear

Correct Answer: Hootz Bear

Correct Answer Explanation: The “hootz,” a large brown bear, earned respect from the Tlingit people due to its ferocity. They generally avoided hunting this formidable creature, acknowledging its power and role in the ecosystem.

What was the estimated height of Muir Glacier’s face?

  • 100-200 feet
  • 400-700 feet
  • 800-1200 feet
  • 1500-2000 feet

Correct Answer: 400-700 feet

Correct Answer Explanation: Muir Glacier, a breathtaking natural wonder, towered over the landscape with its sheer ice face, estimated to be between 400 and 700 feet tall.

What was the name of the steamship chartered by E. H. Harriman for his scientific expedition to Alaska?

  • The George W. Elder
  • The Jamestown
  • The White Pass
  • The Harriman

Correct Answer: The George W. Elder

Correct Answer Explanation: The George W. Elder, a prominent steamship, served as the primary vessel for E. H. Harriman’s scientific expedition to Alaska, carrying John Muir and other distinguished scientists on their journey of discovery.

What was the traditional Tlingit canoe, measuring six fathoms (36 feet) in length, called?

  • Kladushu etlan
  • Saanah
  • Potlatch
  • Hootz

Correct Answer: Kladushu etlan

Correct Answer Explanation: The Tlingit people, known for their skilled boat building, crafted canoes of various sizes, including the “kladushu etlan,” a six-fathom canoe, well-suited for navigating the intricate waterways of Southeast Alaska.

What was the name of the scientific expedition led by railroad magnate E. H. Harriman in 1899, which included John Muir and other eminent scientists?

  • The Harriman Expedition
  • The George W. Elder Expedition
  • The Muir Glacier Expedition
  • The Alaska Scientific Expedition

Correct Answer: The Harriman Expedition

Correct Answer Explanation: The Harriman Expedition, a significant scientific undertaking led by E. H. Harriman, a prominent railroad magnate, included John Muir and other renowned scientists who documented the natural wonders of Alaska.

Which strong southeast rain-wind prevails in Southeast Alaska?

  • Saanah
  • Kladushu etlan
  • Potlatch
  • Hootz

Correct Answer: Saanah

Correct Answer Explanation: The “saanah,” a powerful southeast rain-wind, is a characteristic feature of Southeast Alaska, bringing with it heavy rain and strong winds that shape the region’s landscape.

What is the estimated length of the Yukon River?

  • 500 miles
  • 1,000 miles
  • 2,000 miles
  • 3,000 miles

Correct Answer: 2,000 miles

Correct Answer Explanation: The Yukon River, a major artery of Alaska, flows for a remarkable 2,000 miles, making it one of the longest rivers in North America.

What is the estimated length of the White Pass Railroad?

  • 10 miles
  • 20 miles
  • 30 miles
  • 40 miles

Correct Answer: 30 miles

Correct Answer Explanation: The White Pass Railroad, a crucial link during the Klondike gold rush, spanned 30 miles, connecting Skagway to Lake Bennett and transporting miners and supplies.

What was the name of the lost glacier that the author and John Muir searched for and later named?

  • Young Glacier
  • Muir Glacier
  • Taylor Glacier
  • The Lost Glacier

Correct Answer: Young Glacier

Correct Answer Explanation: The author and John Muir embarked on a journey to find a lost glacier, which they successfully located and named Young Glacier, a testament to their persistent exploration and scientific curiosity.

What was the name of the Harvard graduate who was living among the Kake Indians in a state of utter degradation?

  • The Harvard Graduate
  • The Idiot Boy
  • Tow-a-att
  • Stickeen

Correct Answer: The Harvard Graduate

Correct Answer Explanation: This tragic tale recounts the downfall of a Harvard graduate who had become lost and degraded, highlighting the vulnerability of even educated individuals in harsh and unfamiliar environments.

What was the name of the Hootz-noo chief’s son who was a severe idiot and protected by his mother from a mob seeking to kill him?

  • Hootz-too
  • Tow-a-att
  • The Harvard Graduate
  • Stickeen

Correct Answer: Hootz-too

Correct Answer Explanation: Hootz-too, the son of the Hootz-noo chief, was known for his severe mental disability, causing him to be a target of the tribe. However, his mother fiercely protected him from harm, illustrating the unwavering devotion of a mother.

What was the name of the dog that accompanied Muir and the author on their journey?

  • Stickeen
  • Hootz
  • The Harvard Graduate
  • Tow-a-att

Correct Answer: Stickeen

Correct Answer Explanation: Stickeen, a resourceful and intelligent dog, accompanied Muir and the author on their expeditions, often proving invaluable in navigation and demonstrating his uncanny instincts.

What was the traditional Tlingit gift-giving ceremony used to demonstrate wealth and social standing?

  • Potlatch
  • Saanah
  • Hootz
  • Kladushu etlan

Correct Answer: Potlatch

Correct Answer Explanation: The Tlingit people practiced a ceremony called the “potlatch,” where they would give away gifts, often of great value, as a way to showcase their wealth and social position.

What was the name of the spectacular canyon with numerous waterfalls and towering granite cliffs that Muir and the author discovered?

  • Yosemite Bay
  • Glacier Bay
  • Taylor Bay
  • Young Bay

Correct Answer: Yosemite Bay

Correct Answer Explanation: Yosemite Bay, named for its resemblance to the famous Yosemite Valley in California, impressed Muir and the author with its breathtaking scenery, complete with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine beauty.

What was the name of the spirit that the Tlingit chief sacrificed two slaves to in an attempt to stop the advance of a glacier?

  • The Spirit of the Glacier
  • The Saanah Wind
  • The Hootz
  • The Kladushu

Correct Answer: The Spirit of the Glacier

Correct Answer Explanation: This story illustrates the Tlingit belief in the spiritual forces that govern nature, as they believed that glaciers were inhabited by powerful spirits that could influence their movements.

Which phrase did the Tlingit use to mean “very good”?

  • Hyas klosh
  • U-ha, u-ha!
  • Hlitsin!
  • Tatlum-pe-ict

Correct Answer: Hyas klosh

Correct Answer Explanation: “Hyas klosh,” meaning “very good,” reflects the Tlingit language’s rich vocabulary and expression, showcasing their appreciation for quality and excellence.

What was the Tlingit phrase used to encourage paddlers?

  • U-ha, u-ha!
  • Hyas klosh
  • Hlitsin!
  • Tatlum-pe-ict

Correct Answer: U-ha, u-ha!

Correct Answer Explanation: “U-ha, u-ha!” was a common phrase among the Tlingit people, meaning “pull, pull!” and used to encourage paddlers in their canoes, reflecting the importance of teamwork and coordination.

Which phrase did the Tlingit use to mean “strong”?

  • Hlitsin!
  • U-ha, u-ha!
  • Hyas klosh
  • Tatlum-pe-ict

Correct Answer: Hlitsin!

Correct Answer Explanation: “Hlitsin!” is a Tlingit term signifying “strong,” reflecting their appreciation for power, endurance, and resilience.

What was the Tlingit word for the number eleven?

  • Tatlum-pe-ict
  • Hlitsin!
  • Hyas klosh
  • U-ha, u-ha!

Correct Answer: Tatlum-pe-ict

Correct Answer Explanation: “Tatlum-pe-ict” is the Tlingit word for eleven, showcasing their unique system of numeration and linguistic heritage.

What was the estimated population of the Tlingit tribes in Southeast Alaska at the time of the expedition?

  • 1,000
  • 2,000
  • 3,000
  • 4,000

Correct Answer: 3,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The author estimated the population of the Tlingit tribes in Southeast Alaska to be around 3,000, providing insight into the cultural landscape of the region at the time.

What was the approximate daily rate of movement of Muir Glacier?

  • 50-60 feet
  • 100-150 feet
  • 200-250 feet
  • 300-350 feet

Correct Answer: 50-60 feet

Correct Answer Explanation: Muir Glacier was observed to be moving at an estimated rate of 50 to 60 feet per day, demonstrating the constant and powerful dynamics of glacial movement.

What was the approximate annual rate of advancement of Taylor Glacier?

  • 1/2 mile
  • 1 mile
  • 1.5 miles
  • 2 miles

Correct Answer: 1 mile

Correct Answer Explanation: Taylor Glacier, unlike most glaciers, was advancing at a rate of at least one mile per year, indicating its remarkable force and geological significance.

How many marines and sailors were part of the crew of the U.S. Revenue Cutter Jamestown?

  • 10
  • 20
  • 30
  • 40

Correct Answer: 20

Correct Answer Explanation: The U.S. Revenue Cutter Jamestown had a crew of 20 marines and sailors, providing a tangible representation of the U.S. presence and authority in the Alaskan region during this period.

What was the primary reason why John Muir objected to the killing of wild animals, even though he was a meat-eater?

  • He believed in the spiritual connection between humans and animals.
  • He thought it was wasteful and unnecessary.
  • He was concerned about the impact on the ecosystem.
  • He felt it was unethical and cruel.

Correct Answer: He felt it was unethical and cruel.

Correct Answer Explanation: John Muir, despite being a meat-eater, had a strong moral objection to the unnecessary killing of wild animals, believing it to be unethical and cruel.

What was the name of the gold rush in 1899 that brought thousands of prospectors to the bleak northwestern coast of Alaska?

  • The Nome Gold Rush
  • The Klondike Gold Rush
  • The Alaska Gold Rush
  • The Yukon Gold Rush

Correct Answer: The Nome Gold Rush

Correct Answer Explanation: The Nome Gold Rush, occurring in 1899, attracted a large influx of prospectors to the harsh northwestern coast of Alaska, creating a boom in the region’s economy and population.

What was the name of the story in which Stickeen, the dog, successfully finds his way back to the canoe after swimming away from Pleasant Island?

  • Stickeen’s Escapade
  • Stickeen’s Loyalty
  • Stickeen’s Adventure
  • Stickeen’s Journey

Correct Answer: Stickeen’s Escapade

Correct Answer Explanation: The story of Stickeen’s escapade highlights the dog’s intelligence and uncanny intuition, as he successfully navigated his way back to the canoe after swimming away from Pleasant Island.

What was the name of the story in which John Muir makes a solo traversal of Muir Glacier, a journey of 30 miles?

  • Muir’s Glacier Crossing
  • Muir’s Glacier Adventure
  • Muir’s Glacier Journey
  • Muir’s Glacier Expedition

Correct Answer: Muir’s Glacier Crossing

Correct Answer Explanation: This story highlights Muir’s adventurous spirit and endurance as he undertook a solo journey across Muir Glacier, a challenging feat that demonstrates his dedication to exploration.

What was the name of the story that highlights the deep bond between Muir and Stickeen, as they climb up Taylor Glacier in a storm?

  • Taylor Glacier’s Advance
  • Taylor Glacier’s Challenge
  • Muir’s Glacier Crossing
  • Stickeen’s Escapade

Correct Answer: Taylor Glacier’s Advance

Correct Answer Explanation: This story showcases the strong relationship between Muir and Stickeen, as they face the challenging conditions of a storm while climbing up Taylor Glacier, demonstrating their resilience and shared spirit of adventure.

What was the main reason why Muir and the author decided to search for the lost glacier, which they eventually named Young Glacier?

  • They were intrigued by the stories they had heard about it.
  • They were curious to explore the unexplored region.
  • They were hoping to find a new source of gold.
  • They were trying to prove the existence of glaciers.

Correct Answer: They were curious to explore the unexplored region.

Correct Answer Explanation: Driven by their shared love for exploration and discovery, Muir and the author embarked on a quest to find the lost glacier, motivated by a desire to uncover the secrets of the unexplored Alaskan wilderness.

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Jessmyn Solana

Jessmyn Solana is the Digital Marketing Manager of Interact, a place for creating beautiful and engaging quizzes that generate email leads. She is a marketing enthusiast and storyteller. Outside of Interact Jessmyn loves exploring new places, eating all the local foods, and spending time with her favorite people (especially her dog).

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