Learning About The Past: Geographers study parts of our planet

What is the primary focus of geographers?

• The study of the physical features of our planet and how these features have changed over time

• The study of economic systems

• The study of human behavior

• The study of ancient civilizations

Who were the two young Army captains that led an expedition to explore the Northwestern United States?

• Meriwether Lewis and William Clark

• Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama

• Thomas Jefferson and Sacagawea

• Bartolomeu Dias and Ferdinand Magellan

What was the main instruction given by President Thomas Jefferson to Lewis and Clark regarding their interactions with the natives?

• To avoid any contact with the natives

• To trade only essential goods with them

• To document their languages and customs

• To treat them in the most friendly and conciliatory manner

What significant contribution did Eratosthenes make to geography?

• He created the first world map

• He calculated the Earth's circumference

• He discovered the Cape of Good Hope

• He circumnavigated the planet

What was the main challenge faced by cartographers when creating maps?

• Dealing with political boundaries

• Finding accurate data about distant lands

• Creating maps that were resistant to weather conditions

• Representing the three-dimensional surface of the earth on a two-dimensional page

What is the Mercator projection known for?

• Showing the Earth's curvature accurately

• Accurately representing the size of all landmasses

• Providing a simple way to plot a course for sailors

• Being the first map to include the Americas

What was the main drawback of the Mercator projection?

• It was difficult to read

• It had gross distortions near the poles

• It did not include the Pacific Ocean

• It was not accepted by sailors

What did Magellan's crew resort to eating during their voyage across the Pacific?

• Fish and seaweed

• Sawdust, leather strips, and rats

• Dried fruits and nuts

• Canned food and preserved meat

What is the significance of the title 'Atlas' for a book of maps?

• It was the name of the first cartographer

• It refers to the Greek god carrying the earth upon his back

• It was the name of the first map

• It signifies the accuracy of the maps

What was the main purpose of the supplies carried by Lewis and Clark's expedition?

• To ensure friendly interactions with the natives

• To document their journey

• To survive the harsh weather conditions

• To trade with the natives