Travels in North America, From Modern Writers Trivia Quiz Questions and Answers

Which of these bodies of water is NOT mentioned as a major lake in North America in “Travels in North America, From Modern Writers” by the Rev. William Bingley?

  • Lake Erie
  • Lake Ontario
  • Lake Champlain
  • Lake Michigan
  • Lake Superior

Correct Answer: Lake Michigan

Correct Answer Explanation: While the book discusses Lake Superior, Huron, Erie, Ontario, and Champlain, it doesn’t specifically mention Lake Michigan.

What was the approximate population of New York City in 1817?

  • 25,000
  • 50,000
  • 120,000
  • 200,000

Correct Answer: 120,000

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the text, New York City had a population of 120,000 in 1817, highlighting its rapid growth as a major city in the early 19th century.

What type of dwelling was commonly built by early settlers in North America?

  • Brick houses
  • Stone houses
  • Log houses
  • Adobe houses

Correct Answer: Log houses

Correct Answer Explanation: Early settlers often constructed log houses due to their availability of timber and relative ease of construction. This reflects the practical needs and resourcefulness of settlers in the developing frontier.

What was the approximate salary of Presbyterian and Episcopal ministers in the United States in the early 19th century?

  • $2,000 to $8,000 per year
  • $500 to $2,000 per year
  • $10,000 to $15,000 per year
  • $25,000 to $50,000 per year

Correct Answer: $2,000 to $8,000 per year

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that Presbyterian and Episcopal ministers in the US received salaries ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 per year, offering insights into the economic conditions and social status of religious leaders in early America.

What significant event occurred in Mexico in 1802 that demonstrates the powerful forces shaping the continent’s landscape?

  • A massive earthquake that devastated the city of Mexico
  • The eruption of the Jorullo volcano
  • The discovery of a large gold deposit
  • A major flood that inundated the valley of Mexico

Correct Answer: The eruption of the Jorullo volcano

Correct Answer Explanation: The text describes the emergence of the Jorullo volcano in Mexico, a powerful geological event that showcases the dramatic forces that have shaped the planet’s landscape and highlights the dynamism of the natural world.

Which of these terms describes a vast expanse of grassland commonly found in North America?

  • Canyon
  • Mesa
  • Prairie
  • Tundra

Correct Answer: Prairie

Correct Answer Explanation: The term “prairie” refers to a vast expanse of grassland, a characteristic feature of the North American landscape.

What is the name of the village in Wisconsin that was a gathering place for traders and Native Americans?

  • Prairie des Chiens
  • Teocalli
  • Chinampa
  • Fumorola

Correct Answer: Prairie des Chiens

Correct Answer Explanation: Prairie des Chiens, a village in Wisconsin, served as a hub for trade and exchange between Native Americans and Europeans, highlighting the dynamic interactions between these cultures.

Which of these geographical features is NOT mentioned as a notable bay in North America in “Travels in North America, From Modern Writers”?

  • Hudson’s Bay
  • Delaware Bay
  • Chesapeake Bay
  • Bay of Fundy
  • Bay of Honduras

Correct Answer: Bay of Fundy

Correct Answer Explanation: The text discusses Hudson’s Bay, Delaware Bay, Chesapeake Bay, and the Bay of Honduras, but it doesn’t mention the Bay of Fundy.

What is the approximate length of the Mississippi River, according to the information provided?

  • 500 miles
  • 1,000 miles
  • 1,700 miles
  • 2,500 miles

Correct Answer: 1,700 miles

Correct Answer Explanation: The text states that the Mississippi River is over 1,700 miles long, highlighting its significance as a major waterway in North America.

What was the approximate population of Utica, New York, in 1817?

  • 1,000 to 2,000
  • 3,000 to 4,000
  • 5,000 to 6,000
  • 7,000 to 8,000

Correct Answer: 3,000 to 4,000

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the text, Utica, New York, had 3,000 to 4,000 inhabitants in 1817, providing insights into the growth of smaller towns in the early 19th century.

Which of these statements about the US government in the early 19th century is NOT accurate?

  • The US government is a federal republic.
  • The US government has a legislative branch, an executive branch, and a judicial branch.
  • The US military relies primarily on a standing army.
  • The US Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, press, and religion.

Correct Answer: The US military relies primarily on a standing army.

Correct Answer Explanation: The text explains that the US military in the early 19th century relied primarily on the militia, requiring every male citizen to bear arms or pay a fee. This reflects the evolving structure of the US military and its reliance on citizen participation.

What was the approximate population of Charleston, South Carolina, in 1795?

  • 5,000
  • 10,000
  • 16,000
  • 25,000

Correct Answer: 16,000

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the text, Charleston, South Carolina, had around 16,000 inhabitants in 1795, offering insights into the size and importance of Southern cities in the late 18th century.

What was the annual salary of the President of the United States in the early 19th century?

  • $5,000
  • $10,000
  • $25,000
  • $50,000

Correct Answer: $25,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that the President of the United States earned $25,000 per year in the early 19th century, providing insights into the compensation of the nation’s highest elected official.

What is the name of the extinct elephant-like animal whose bones were discovered in New York in 1799?

  • Mammoth
  • Mastodon
  • Saber-toothed tiger
  • Giant sloth

Correct Answer: Mastodon

Correct Answer Explanation: The text describes the discovery of the bones of the Mastodon, an extinct elephant-like animal, in New York in 1799, highlighting the presence of unique prehistoric creatures in North America.

Which of these statements about the American Revolution is NOT accurate?

  • The American Revolution was a struggle for independence from Great Britain.
  • The American Revolution resulted in the formation of the United States.
  • The American Revolution took place in the late 18th century.
  • The American Revolution was primarily fought in the Southern colonies.

Correct Answer: The American Revolution was primarily fought in the Southern colonies.

Correct Answer Explanation: While the American Revolution had significant battles in the South, it was fought throughout the thirteen colonies.

What is the name of the floating garden that was commonly used in Mexico?

  • Teocalli
  • Chinampa
  • Fumorola
  • Malpais

Correct Answer: Chinampa

Correct Answer Explanation: Chinampas were floating gardens that were commonly used in Mexico, showcasing the ingenuity of early civilizations in adapting to their environment.

What significant event occurred in 1803 that significantly expanded the territory of the United States?

  • The Louisiana Purchase
  • The annexation of Florida
  • The Mexican-American War
  • The Civil War

Correct Answer: The Louisiana Purchase

Correct Answer Explanation: The Louisiana Purchase, a significant event in 1803, saw the United States acquire a vast territory from France, doubling the size of the country and paving the way for westward expansion.

Which of these cities was NOT mentioned as a major city in North America in “Travels in North America, From Modern Writers”?

  • Philadelphia
  • New York City
  • Boston
  • Washington D.C.
  • Baltimore

Correct Answer: Boston

Correct Answer Explanation: The text focuses on New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore as major cities, but doesn’t specifically mention Boston.

What was the approximate population of Washington, D.C., in 1795?

  • 5,000
  • 10,000
  • 20,000
  • 30,000

Correct Answer: 20,000

Correct Answer Explanation: Washington, D.C., had around 20,000 inhabitants in 1795, highlighting its growth as the new capital of the United States.

What was the approximate price of uncleared land in Pennsylvania in 1817?

  • $1 to $5 per acre
  • $5 to $10 per acre
  • $15 to $50 per acre
  • $50 to $100 per acre

Correct Answer: $15 to $50 per acre

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that uncleared land in Pennsylvania was selling for $15 to $50 per acre in 1817, providing insights into the cost of land and the economic opportunities in the developing frontier.

What is the name of the impressive waterfall on the Mohawk River mentioned in the book?

  • The Falls of Niagara
  • The Falls of St. Anthony
  • The Cohoz Waterfall
  • The Burning Spring

Correct Answer: The Cohoz Waterfall

Correct Answer Explanation: The text describes the Cohoz Waterfall on the Mohawk River, showcasing the power and beauty of nature in North America.

Which of these geographical features is NOT mentioned as a major mountain range in North America in “Travels in North America, From Modern Writers”?

  • The Appalachian Mountains
  • The Rocky Mountains
  • The Sierra Nevada Mountains
  • The Cascade Mountains

Correct Answer: The Cascade Mountains

Correct Answer Explanation: While the text discusses the Appalachian Mountains and the Rocky Mountains, it doesn’t specifically mention the Cascade Mountains.

Which of these statements about the institution of slavery in the United States is NOT accurate?

  • The United States allowed slavery despite its commitment to freedom and equality.
  • Slavery had a devastating impact on African populations.
  • Slavery was primarily practiced in the Northern states.
  • Slavery played a significant role in shaping the country’s social and political landscape.

Correct Answer: Slavery was primarily practiced in the Northern states.

Correct Answer Explanation: Slavery was primarily practiced in the Southern states, not the Northern states. This highlights the deep divisions in the country over the issue of slavery and its lasting impact on American society.

Which of these terms describes a person who settles on unoccupied land without legal ownership?

  • Surveyor
  • Squatter
  • Homesteader
  • Rancher

Correct Answer: Squatter

Correct Answer Explanation: A squatter is a person who settles on unoccupied land without legal ownership, highlighting the challenges and conflicts that arose during westward expansion.

Which of these statements about the natural resources of North America is NOT accurate?

  • North America contains over 42 species of oaks.
  • North America has a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers.
  • North America is rich in minerals like iron, lead, and copper.
  • North America has a large number of navigable rivers.

Correct Answer: North America has a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers.

Correct Answer Explanation: While North America has a wide range of wildlife, tigers are not native to the continent. This highlights the specific fauna found in North America and the unique ecosystems it supports.

Which of these statements about the discovery and exploration of North America is NOT accurate?

  • Europeans first discovered North America in the late 15th century.
  • Spanish adventurers conquered and colonized the southern districts of North America.
  • The Expedition of Lewis and Clark was a significant exploration of the Western territories.
  • The United States acquired Louisiana from Great Britain in 1803.

Correct Answer: The United States acquired Louisiana from Great Britain in 1803.

Correct Answer Explanation: The Louisiana Purchase was made from France, not Great Britain, in 1803. This highlights the shifting political landscape of North America during this period.

What is the name of the natural phenomenon in New York State where gas seeps from the ground and continuously burns?

  • The Burning Spring
  • The Cohoz Waterfall
  • The Falls of Niagara
  • The Dismal Swamp

Correct Answer: The Burning Spring

Correct Answer Explanation: The text describes the Burning Spring, a natural phenomenon in New York State, where gas seeps from the ground and continuously burns, showcasing the unique geological features of the region.

Which of these statements about the early American cities is NOT accurate?

  • Early American cities were characterized by rapid growth.
  • Early American cities had diverse economic activities.
  • Early American cities were primarily located in the Southern colonies.
  • Early American cities had a complex social dynamic.

Correct Answer: Early American cities were primarily located in the Southern colonies.

Correct Answer Explanation: While some major cities were in the South, early American cities were located throughout the colonies, reflecting the spread of European settlement and the development of diverse urban centers.

What is the name of the pyramid-shaped temple built by the ancient Aztecs?

  • Teocalli
  • Chinampa
  • Fumorola
  • Malpais

Correct Answer: Teocalli

Correct Answer Explanation: Teocallis were pyramid-shaped temples built by the ancient Aztecs, showcasing the architectural ingenuity and religious beliefs of these civilizations.

What was the approximate size of Lake Superior?

  • 100 miles long and 50 miles wide
  • 150 miles long and 75 miles wide
  • 200 miles long and 100 miles wide
  • 300 miles long and 150 miles wide

Correct Answer: 300 miles long and 150 miles wide

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the text, Lake Superior is nearly 300 miles long and over 150 miles wide, highlighting its vast size and importance as a major body of water in North America.

What was the name of the vast swamp in Virginia mentioned in the book?

  • The Dismal Swamp
  • The Burning Spring
  • The Falls of Niagara
  • The Cohoz Waterfall

Correct Answer: The Dismal Swamp

Correct Answer Explanation: The Dismal Swamp, a vast swamp in Virginia, is mentioned in the text, showcasing the untamed nature of the continent and its diverse ecosystems.

What was the name of the administrative division of New Spain mentioned in the book?

  • Intendancy
  • Teocalli
  • Chinampa
  • Fumorola

Correct Answer: Intendancy

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions intendancies, administrative divisions of New Spain, providing insights into the organization of the Spanish colonial government.

What was the approximate population of Natchez, Mississippi, in 1817?

  • 30
  • 300
  • 3,000
  • 30,000

Correct Answer: 30

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the text, Natchez, Mississippi, had around 30 inhabitants in 1817, showcasing the small size of settlements in the developing frontier.

Which of these statements about the early 19th-century United States is NOT accurate?

  • The United States was still a young nation.
  • The United States was grappling with the establishment of a stable government.
  • The United States was facing challenges in managing its diverse population.
  • The United States was primarily an agricultural society.

Correct Answer: The United States was primarily an agricultural society.

Correct Answer Explanation: While agriculture was a major part of the economy, the United States was also experiencing rapid industrialization and urbanization in the early 19th century.

What was the name of the village that served as a hub for trade and exchange between Native Americans and Europeans?

  • Prairie des Chiens
  • Teocalli
  • Chinampa
  • Fumorola

Correct Answer: Prairie des Chiens

Correct Answer Explanation: Prairie des Chiens, a village in Wisconsin, served as a hub for trade and exchange between Native Americans and Europeans, highlighting the dynamic interactions between these cultures.

What was the approximate population of Lexington, Kentucky, in 1802?

  • 100
  • 150
  • 1,000
  • 10,000

Correct Answer: 150

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that Lexington, Kentucky, had over 150 houses in 1802, providing insights into the size and growth of settlements in the early 19th century.

Which of these statements about the impact of Europeans on indigenous cultures is NOT accurate?

  • The arrival of Europeans had a profound impact on indigenous cultures.
  • European settlers often displaced indigenous populations.
  • European settlers sometimes assimilated indigenous peoples into their culture.
  • European settlers always treated indigenous peoples with respect and fairness.

Correct Answer: European settlers always treated indigenous peoples with respect and fairness.

Correct Answer Explanation: The text highlights the tensions and conflicts between European settlers and indigenous populations, as well as the varying degrees of assimilation and displacement. This reflects the complex and often negative impact of European colonization on indigenous cultures.

What was the approximate revenue of Columbia College in the late 18th century?

  • $1,000
  • $2,000
  • $4,000
  • $8,000

Correct Answer: $4,000

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the text, Columbia College had an annual revenue of $4,000 in the late 18th century, offering insights into the financial resources of educational institutions in early America.

Which of these statements about the early 19th-century United States is NOT accurate?

  • The United States was a rapidly growing nation.
  • The United States had a diverse population.
  • The United States was experiencing a period of political stability.
  • The United States was grappling with the issue of slavery.

Correct Answer: The United States was experiencing a period of political stability.

Correct Answer Explanation: While the United States had achieved independence, it was still facing challenges in establishing a stable government and resolving the issue of slavery. This highlights the dynamic and often contentious political landscape of the early 19th century.

What was the approximate annual rent for a small house in New York City in 1817?

  • $25 to $50
  • $50 to $75
  • $75 to $80
  • $100 to $125

Correct Answer: $75 to $80

Correct Answer Explanation: The text mentions that small houses in New York rented for $75 to $80 per year in 1817, providing insights into the cost of housing and the economic conditions of urban dwellers in early America.

Which of these features is NOT mentioned as a characteristic of the landscape of North America in “Travels in North America, From Modern Writers”?

  • Mountain ranges
  • Prairie grasslands
  • Coastal plains
  • Deserts

Correct Answer: Deserts

Correct Answer Explanation: While the book discusses mountain ranges, prairie grasslands, and coastal plains, it doesn’t specifically mention deserts. This highlights the focus on the specific landscapes and geographical features that were particularly prominent in the early 19th century.

Which of these statements about the early 19th-century United States is NOT accurate?

  • The United States was facing challenges in expanding its territory.
  • The United States was grappling with the tensions between freedom and democracy and the realities of westward expansion.
  • The United States was experiencing a period of economic growth.
  • The United States was a unified nation with a shared sense of national identity.

Correct Answer: The United States was a unified nation with a shared sense of national identity.

Correct Answer Explanation: The text highlights the diverse and often conflicting viewpoints and interests within the young nation, reflecting the challenges of building a cohesive national identity amidst rapid expansion and societal tensions.

Which of these terms describes a swathe of land devastated by a hurricane?

  • Hurricane Tract
  • Prairie
  • Teocalli
  • Chinampa

Correct Answer: Hurricane Tract

Correct Answer Explanation: The term “Hurricane Tract” refers to a swathe of land devastated by a hurricane, highlighting the destructive power of natural disasters and their impact on the environment.

What is the name of the falls on the Mississippi River mentioned in the book?

  • The Falls of Niagara
  • The Falls of St. Anthony
  • The Cohoz Waterfall
  • The Burning Spring

Correct Answer: The Falls of St. Anthony

Correct Answer Explanation: The text describes the Falls of St. Anthony on the Mississippi River, demonstrating the importance of water to transportation and commerce and highlighting the unique geological features of the region.

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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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