What is the traditional belief in Abyssinia about the origins of their kingdom?
- The kingdom was founded by a descendant of the prophet Mohammed.
- The kingdom was founded by a descendant of Noah.
- The kingdom was founded by a group of escaped Roman slaves.
- The kingdom was founded by a group of Egyptian explorers.
Correct Answer: The kingdom was founded by a descendant of Noah.
Correct Answer Explanation: The Abyssinians believe that Cush, a grandson of Noah, founded the kingdom of Axum, their ancient capital. This belief is shared by both the Jews and Christians in Abyssinia.
What was the name of the powerful Abyssinian chieftain who often controlled the province of Tigré?
- Ras Michael
- Abuna
- Baharnagash
- Iteghe
Correct Answer: Baharnagash
Correct Answer Explanation: The Baharnagash was a powerful Abyssinian chieftain, often associated with the province of Tigré. He was a significant figure in Abyssinian politics and wielded considerable influence in the region.
What is the name of the beer made from barley that is popular in Abyssinia?
- Bouza
- Firman
- Aque
- Agow
Correct Answer: Bouza
Correct Answer Explanation: Bouza, a beer made from barley, is a popular drink in Abyssinia. It is often consumed during social gatherings and celebrations.
Which of these tribes is known for its horsemanship and fierce loyalty, earning Bruce their protection?
- The Galla
- The Shangalla
- The Arabs Ababdé
- The Bisharreen
Correct Answer: The Arabs Ababdé
Correct Answer Explanation: The Arabs Ababdé, a powerful tribe, are renowned for their horsemanship and fierce loyalty. Bruce gains their protection after securing the friendship of their chief, Nimmer, the Tiger.
What is the approximate length of Africa in miles?
- 2,500 miles
- 5,000 miles
- 10,000 miles
- 15,000 miles
Correct Answer: 5,000 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Bruce estimates that Africa is about five thousand miles long, which is roughly the distance from the line to Iceland. This immense expanse of land makes it one of the largest continents on Earth.
What is the name of the narrow passage between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean?
- The Straits of Hormuz
- The Straits of Gibraltar
- The Straits of Babelmandel
- The Straits of Malacca
Correct Answer: The Straits of Babelmandel
Correct Answer Explanation: The Straits of Babelmandel, which translates to “the gate of affliction,” is a narrow passage between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. This treacherous stretch of water is known for its strong currents and challenging navigation.
What is the name of the lake in Abyssinia that is approximately 50 miles long and 35 miles wide?
- Lake Tana
- Lake Victoria
- Lake Malawi
- Lake Turkana
Correct Answer: Lake Tana
Correct Answer Explanation: Lake Tana, located in Abyssinia, is about fifty miles long and thirty-five miles wide. This vast lake is an important source of water for the region and is also home to diverse wildlife.
Which of these tribes is known for being black, naked, and pagan, and is often hunted and enslaved by the Abyssinians?
- The Galla
- The Shangalla
- The Bisharreen
- The Arabs Ababdé
Correct Answer: The Shangalla
Correct Answer Explanation: The Shangalla, also known as the Cushite people of Abyssinia, are black, naked, and pagan. They are often hunted and enslaved by the Abyssinians, highlighting the brutal nature of Abyssinian society.
What is the name of the ancient city near the Nile that was built by Emperor Hadrian?
- Memphis
- Luxor
- Antinous
- Dendera
Correct Answer: Antinous
Correct Answer Explanation: The ancient city of Antinous, built by Emperor Hadrian, is located near Rhoda on the Nile. Its ruins are still visible, offering a glimpse into the Roman Empire’s influence in the region.
What is the name of the mountain in Abyssinia that Bruce considered to be the highest?
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Mount Kenya
- Mount Tarenta
- Mount Ruwenzori
Correct Answer: Mount Tarenta
Correct Answer Explanation: The Tarenta mountain is considered to be the highest mountain in Abyssinia. Its elevation and prominence make it a significant landmark in the region.
What was the name of the Jesuit missionary who successfully converted King Socinios to Roman Catholicism?
- Peter Paez
- Don Christopher de Gama
- Frumentius
- Nathaniel Pierce
Correct Answer: Peter Paez
Correct Answer Explanation: Peter Paez, a Jesuit missionary, was successful in converting King Socinios to Roman Catholicism. This event marked a significant turning point in the religious landscape of Abyssinia.
What was the approximate length of Bruce’s journey across the Red Sea, a journey usually completed in three days?
- Three days
- Five days
- Seven days
- Seventeen days
Correct Answer: Seventeen days
Correct Answer Explanation: Bruce and his party took seventeen days to cross the Red Sea, a journey typically completed in three days. This extended journey was necessary for Bruce to conduct thorough surveys of the islands in the Red Sea.
What is the name of the ancient capital of Egypt that no longer exists?
- Alexandria
- Cairo
- Memphis
- Thebes
Correct Answer: Memphis
Correct Answer Explanation: Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, no longer exists. Its exact location is still a subject of debate among historians, but its ruins provide valuable insights into Egyptian civilization.
What is the name of the powerful Arab tribe that is exempt from taxes because they eat lions?
- The Bisharreen
- The Arabs Ababdé
- The Galla
- The Welled Sidi Boogannim
Correct Answer: The Welled Sidi Boogannim
Correct Answer Explanation: The Welled Sidi Boogannim, an Arab tribe, are exempt from taxes because they eat lions. This unusual custom was once questioned by European scholars, but Bruce confirmed its authenticity.
What was the approximate amount of Lord Valentia’s presents for the king of Abyssinia?
- £140
- £1,400
- £14,000
- £140,000
Correct Answer: £1,400
Correct Answer Explanation: Lord Valentia’s presents for the king of Abyssinia amounted to upwards of £1400. This reflects the extravagance and significance of these diplomatic gifts.
Which of these was not a major European power that paid tributes to the Dey of Algiers in the 18th century?
- Denmark
- Sweden
- Holland
- Spain
Correct Answer: Spain
Correct Answer Explanation: Denmark, Sweden, and Holland all paid tributes to the Dey of Algiers in the 18th century. Spain, while a major European power, did not pay tributes to the Dey of Algiers.
What was the name of the English sailor who deserted his ship and lived in Abyssinia for thirteen years?
- Nathaniel Pierce
- Peter Paez
- Don Christopher de Gama
- Frumentius
Correct Answer: Nathaniel Pierce
Correct Answer Explanation: Nathaniel Pierce, the English sailor who deserted his ship, lived in Abyssinia for thirteen years. This extended stay suggests his integration into Abyssinian society and the experiences he gained during this period.
What is the name of the river in Abyssinia that is approximately 200 yards wide and 3 feet deep?
- The Tacazzé
- The Blue Nile
- The White Nile
- The Nile
Correct Answer: The Tacazzé
Correct Answer Explanation: The Tacazzé river, in Abyssinia, is about two hundred yards broad and about three feet deep. This gives a general understanding of its size and significance as a water source for the region.
Which of these is not a town or city mentioned in Bruce’s travels?
- Cosseir
- Jidda
- Gondar
- Furshoot
Correct Answer: Jidda
Correct Answer Explanation: Jidda, a major port on the coast of Arabia Deserta, was not visited by Bruce during his travels. While it was a crucial stop on the pilgrimage route to Mecca, Bruce’s journey focused primarily on the interior of Africa.
What was the approximate width of the Nile at Woodan?
- 100 yards
- 200 yards
- 400 yards
- 800 yards
Correct Answer: 400 yards
Correct Answer Explanation: The Nile is approximately a quarter of a mile wide at Woodan, which translates to roughly 400 yards. This emphasizes the scale of the Nile as a major river system.
Which of these locations is known for its extensive ruins, including a magnificent temple covered in hieroglyphics?
- Memphis
- Dendera
- Thebes
- Luxor
Correct Answer: Dendera
Correct Answer Explanation: Dendera, near the Nile, is a town full of ancient ruins, including a magnificent temple covered in hieroglyphics. These ruins provide valuable insights into ancient Egyptian civilization and its religious beliefs.
What is the name of the barren and desolate islands in the Red Sea, whose inhabitants often endure periods without food?
- The Dahalac Islands
- The Socotra Islands
- The Mascarene Islands
- The Comoros Islands
Correct Answer: The Dahalac Islands
Correct Answer Explanation: The Dahalac Islands, in the Red Sea, are barren and desolate. Their inhabitants often endure prolonged periods without food and face extreme hardship. This highlights the harsh realities of life in these remote islands.
What is the name of the volcano in the Red Sea that was smoking during Bruce’s travels?
- Mount Vesuvius
- Mount Etna
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Gibel Teir
Correct Answer: Gibel Teir
Correct Answer Explanation: Gibel Teir, in the Red Sea, was a volcano that was smoking during Bruce’s travels. This observation provides a glimpse into the active geological forces shaping the Red Sea region.
What is the name of the chief priest of the Abyssinian church, traditionally appointed from Cairo?
- Abuna
- Baharnagash
- Iteghe
- Ras
Correct Answer: Abuna
Correct Answer Explanation: The Abuna is the chief priest of the Abyssinian church, traditionally appointed from Cairo. This highlights the influence of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Abyssinian religious life.
What is the name of the queen-mother, a position of great influence in Abyssinian society?
- Iteghe
- Abuna
- Baharnagash
- Ras
Correct Answer: Iteghe
Correct Answer Explanation: The Iteghe, the queen-mother, holds a position of great influence in Abyssinian society. Her authority and wisdom are often respected, and she plays a significant role in shaping political affairs.
What is the name of the high-ranking Abyssinian governor or chieftain, often exercising significant political power?
- Ras
- Iteghe
- Baharnagash
- Abuna
Correct Answer: Ras
Correct Answer Explanation: A Ras is a high-ranking Abyssinian governor or chieftain, often wielding considerable political power. These individuals are key players in Abyssinian politics and hold significant influence in their respective regions.
What is the name of the nomadic tribe inhabiting the Nubian desert, known for their raiding and banditry?
- The Arabs Ababdé
- The Shangalla
- The Galla
- The Bisharreen
Correct Answer: The Bisharreen
Correct Answer Explanation: The Bisharreen, a nomadic tribe inhabiting the Nubian desert, are known for their raiding and banditry. They pose a constant threat to travelers and caravans traversing the desert, adding to the dangers of the journey.
What was the name of the type of malaria that plagued Bruce throughout his travels?
- Aque
- Agow
- Firman
- Bouza
Correct Answer: Aque
Correct Answer Explanation: Aque, a type of malaria commonly contracted in hot climates, plagued Bruce throughout his travels. This debilitating disease added to the hardships of his journey and highlights the health risks faced by explorers in these regions.
What is the name of the pagan tribe inhabiting the mountainous region around the source of the Blue Nile?
- The Galla
- The Arabs Ababdé
- The Bisharreen
- The Agows
Correct Answer: The Agows
Correct Answer Explanation: The Agows, a pagan tribe, inhabit the mountainous region around the source of the Blue Nile. Their distinct religious beliefs and cultural practices set them apart from the Abyssinian population.
What is the name of the royal decree or official document often used for granting permission or conferring authority?
- Firman
- Agow
- Bouza
- Aque
Correct Answer: Firman
Correct Answer Explanation: A Firman is a royal decree or official document, often used for granting permission or conferring authority. It was a vital tool for navigating the complex political landscape of Abyssinia and securing the necessary permissions for Bruce’s explorations.
What is the name of the large nomadic tribe inhabiting the southern and western regions of Abyssinia?
- The Arabs Ababdé
- The Bisharreen
- The Galla
- The Shangalla
Correct Answer: The Galla
Correct Answer Explanation: The Galla, a large nomadic tribe, inhabit the southern and western regions of Abyssinia. They are known for their skilled horsemanship and warrior culture, posing a constant threat to the Abyssinians.
What is the approximate circumference of the Jesuit convent at Fremoga?
- 1/2 mile
- 1 mile
- 2 miles
- 4 miles
Correct Answer: 1 mile
Correct Answer Explanation: The circumference of the Jesuit convent at Fremoga is about a mile. This impressive structure demonstrates the scale and significance of the Roman Catholic presence in Abyssinia.
What is the approximate distance between Gondar and the sources of the Nile?
- 10 miles
- 25 miles
- 50 miles
- 100 miles
Correct Answer: 50 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: The distance between Gondar and the sources of the Nile is less than 50 miles. This emphasizes the relative proximity of Bruce’s destination and highlights his determined pursuit of reaching the source of the Nile.
What is the name of the small mud-walled village on the Red Sea that is known for its trade in corn and is guarded by a small fort to deter bandits?
- Cosseir
- Jidda
- Gondar
- Furshoot
Correct Answer: Cosseir
Correct Answer Explanation: Cosseir, a small mud-walled village on the Red Sea, is known for its trade in corn and is guarded by a small fort to deter bandits. It served as an important trading hub and a point of entry for goods traveling between Abyssinia and the Red Sea.
What is the name of the perilous journey across the Nubian desert, often subject to attacks by bandits?
- The caravan from Syene to Cosseir
- The caravan from Gondar to the source of the Nile
- The caravan from Axum to the Red Sea
- The caravan from Jidda to Mecca
Correct Answer: The caravan from Syene to Cosseir
Correct Answer Explanation: The caravan from Syene to Cosseir is a perilous journey across the Nubian desert. It is often subject to attacks by bandits and threatened by the dangers of the desert, making it a challenging route for travelers.
What is the name of the ancient city near the Nile that is known for its extensive ruins, considered even more magnificent than those of Thebes and Dendera?
- Memphis
- Luxor
- Antinous
- Dendera
Correct Answer: Luxor
Correct Answer Explanation: The ruins of Luxor and Carnac, located near the Nile, are more extensive and magnificent than those of Thebes and Dendera. These ancient sites offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.
What is the name of the event that highlights the instability and violence inherent in Abyssinian politics, involving the massacre of Abyssinian princes?
- The capture and execution of prisoners at Gondar
- The story of Welleta Selasse’s suicide
- The massacre of the Abyssinian princes on the Mountain of Damo
- The incident of Bruce shooting a pigeon in the air
Correct Answer: The massacre of the Abyssinian princes on the Mountain of Damo
Correct Answer Explanation: The massacre of the Abyssinian princes on the Mountain of Damo is a tragic event that showcases the brutality and instability of Abyssinian politics. This act of violence highlights the power struggles and rivalries within the ruling elite.
What is the name of the event that showcases Bruce’s horsemanship and his ability to win the admiration of the local population?
- The massacre of the Abyssinian princes on the Mountain of Damo
- The incident of Bruce shooting a pigeon in the air
- The capture and execution of prisoners at Gondar
- The story of Welleta Selasse’s suicide
Correct Answer: The incident of Bruce shooting a pigeon in the air
Correct Answer Explanation: The incident of Bruce shooting a pigeon in the air demonstrates his horsemanship and his ability to impress the local population. This act of skill and precision earns him admiration and respect from those who witnessed it.
What is the name of the event that highlights the lengths to which individuals would go to escape the tyrannical rule of Ras Michael?
- The incident of Bruce shooting a pigeon in the air
- The capture and execution of prisoners at Gondar
- The story of Welleta Selasse’s suicide
- The massacre of the Abyssinian princes on the Mountain of Damo
Correct Answer: The story of Welleta Selasse’s suicide
Correct Answer Explanation: The story of Welleta Selasse’s suicide illustrates the desperation and despair felt under the tyrannical rule of Ras Michael. This tragic event highlights the lengths to which individuals would go to escape the oppressive regime.
What is the name of the event that highlights the cruelty and prevalence of the slave trade in Abyssinia?
- The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
- The massacre of the Abyssinian princes on the Mountain of Damo
- The capture and execution of prisoners at Gondar
- The incident of Bruce shooting a pigeon in the air
Correct Answer: The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
Correct Answer Explanation: The horrifying tale of the two priests who sold their families into slavery illustrates the prevalence and cruelty of the slave trade in Abyssinia. This event highlights the dark side of Abyssinian society and the suffering caused by the institution of slavery.
What is the name of the event that highlights Bruce’s ability to secure protection from dangerous tribes through negotiation and understanding?
- The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
- The massacre of the Abyssinian princes on the Mountain of Damo
- The capture and execution of prisoners at Gondar
- Bruce’s encounter with the Arabs Ababdé
Correct Answer: Bruce’s encounter with the Arabs Ababdé
Correct Answer Explanation: Bruce’s encounter with the Arabs Ababdé showcases his ability to navigate dangerous situations through diplomacy and understanding. This event highlights his resourcefulness and his capacity to forge alliances with potentially hostile tribes.
What is the name of the event that highlights the dangers faced by Bruce on his return journey to Europe?
- Bruce’s journey across the Nubian desert
- The story of Welleta Selasse’s suicide
- The capture and execution of prisoners at Gondar
- The incident of Bruce shooting a pigeon in the air
Correct Answer: Bruce’s journey across the Nubian desert
Correct Answer Explanation: Bruce’s journey across the Nubian desert highlights the dangers and hardships he faced on his return to Europe. This harrowing experience underscores the challenges of traveling through treacherous and hostile environments.
What is the name of the event that provides a historical context for the Portuguese influence in Abyssinia?
- Don Christopher de Gama’s expedition to Abyssinia
- The story of Peter Paez, a Jesuit missionary who successfully converted King Socinios
- The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
- Bruce’s encounter with the Arabs Ababdé
Correct Answer: Don Christopher de Gama’s expedition to Abyssinia
Correct Answer Explanation: Don Christopher de Gama’s expedition to Abyssinia provides a historical context for Portuguese influence in the region. This event highlights their attempts to establish the Roman Catholic faith in Abyssinia and their ultimate failure.
What is the name of the event that highlights the strong influence of the Roman Catholic church in Abyssinia during the 17th century?
- Don Christopher de Gama’s expedition to Abyssinia
- The story of Peter Paez, a Jesuit missionary who successfully converted King Socinios
- The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
- Bruce’s encounter with the Arabs Ababdé
Correct Answer: The story of Peter Paez, a Jesuit missionary who successfully converted King Socinios
Correct Answer Explanation: The story of Peter Paez, a Jesuit missionary, successfully converting King Socinios to Roman Catholicism, highlights the influence of the Roman Catholic church in Abyssinia during the 17th century. This event reflects the religious landscape of the region and the power of the church during that era.
What is the name of the event that highlights the extravagant nature of the Abyssinian court?
- The story of Peter Paez, a Jesuit missionary who successfully converted King Socinios
- Don Christopher de Gama’s expedition to Abyssinia
- The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
- Socinios, the King of Abyssinia, was crowned in a palace adorned with pomp and grandeur
Correct Answer: Socinios, the King of Abyssinia, was crowned in a palace adorned with pomp and grandeur
Correct Answer Explanation: The coronation of King Socinios in a palace adorned with pomp and grandeur highlights the extravagant nature of the Abyssinian court. This event showcases the opulence and ceremony surrounding the ruling class and their displays of power.
What is the name of the event that demonstrates the enduring influence of the Queen of Sheba’s actions?
- The story of Peter Paez, a Jesuit missionary who successfully converted King Socinios
- The Abyssinian throne is hereditary, passing through the male line of Solomon’s descendants
- Don Christopher de Gama’s expedition to Abyssinia
- The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
Correct Answer: The Abyssinian throne is hereditary, passing through the male line of Solomon’s descendants
Correct Answer Explanation: The Abyssinian throne being hereditary, passing through the male line of Solomon’s descendants, demonstrates the enduring influence of the Queen of Sheba’s actions. Her journey to Jerusalem and subsequent conversion to Judaism left a lasting impact on Abyssinian society and its political structures.
What is the name of the event that highlights the challenges of exploration in the 18th century, from the harshness of the natural world to the dangers posed by hostile populations and political instability?
- The Abyssinian throne is hereditary, passing through the male line of Solomon’s descendants
- Don Christopher de Gama’s expedition to Abyssinia
- The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
- Bruce’s journey to discover the sources of the Nile
Correct Answer: Bruce’s journey to discover the sources of the Nile
Correct Answer Explanation: James Bruce’s journey to discover the sources of the Nile highlights the immense challenges faced by explorers in the 18th century. From the harshness of the natural world to the dangers posed by hostile populations and political instability, Bruce’s journey serves as a testament to the difficulties of exploration.
What is the name of the event that showcases the power of the human spirit and the enduring allure of exploration?
- Bruce’s journey to discover the sources of the Nile
- The story of the two priests who sold their families into slavery
- Don Christopher de Gama’s expedition to Abyssinia
- The Abyssinian throne is hereditary, passing through the male line of Solomon’s descendants
Correct Answer: Bruce’s journey to discover the sources of the Nile
Correct Answer Explanation: James Bruce’s “Travels to Discover the Sources of the Nile” is a captivating account of a remarkable journey through some of the most challenging and fascinating regions of the world. It offers a window into the harsh realities of life in the deserts of North Africa and the complex politics and religious landscape of Abyssinia. Bruce’s bravery, determination, and resourcefulness in the face of danger, as well as his keen observations of the diverse cultures and landscapes he encountered, make his narrative a timeless testament to the power of the human spirit and the enduring allure of exploration.