Social Studies Weekly: Week #9 Quiz

Because of grains, the United States was nicknamed the ______________ of the world.

• grain center

• breadbasket

• grain basket

• bread center

Answer explanation

The United States is often referred to as the 'breadbasket of the world' due to its vast agricultural production, particularly grains. This term highlights its role in supplying food globally, making 'breadbasket' the correct choice.

Horses are from the...

• New World

• Old World

Answer explanation

Horses originated in the Old World, specifically in regions like Europe and Asia. The term 'Old World' refers to these areas, distinguishing them from the 'New World' of the Americas.

Which country established a settlement on the eastern coast of the United States?

• Spain

• Portugal

• Britain

• France

Answer explanation

Britain established several settlements on the eastern coast of the United States, including Jamestown in 1607 and Plymouth in 1620, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What food, high in vitamin C, helped make settlers, sailors and American Indians healthier?

• corn

• citrus fruit

• sugarcane

• potatoes

Answer explanation

Citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, are high in vitamin C, which helps prevent scurvy and boosts the immune system. This made them essential for settlers, sailors, and American Indians in maintaining better health.

What staple crop, originally from the Americas, became a major food source in Europe?

• Barley

• Wheat

• Rice

• Potatoes

Answer explanation

Potatoes, originally from the Americas, became a major food source in Europe after their introduction in the 16th century. They provided a nutritious and calorie-dense food option, significantly impacting European diets.

Gunpowder was originally developed in ____________ about 1,100 years ago.

• China

• France

• Africa

• Spain

Answer explanation

Gunpowder was originally developed in China around the 9th century. This invention played a crucial role in warfare and technology, making China the correct answer.

Which country in South America was largely claimed by Portugal?

• Chile

• Peru

• Brazil

• Argentina

Answer explanation

Brazil was largely claimed by Portugal during the colonial period, making it the only country in South America primarily under Portuguese control, unlike Chile, Peru, and Argentina which were Spanish colonies.

What is the name of the group that introduced chocolate to European explorers?

• Puebloans

• Cortés

• Navajo

• Aztec

Answer explanation

The Aztec civilization was known for its use of cacao, which they consumed as a beverage. When European explorers, including Hernán Cortés, arrived in the Americas, they were introduced to chocolate by the Aztecs.

What kinds of animals did people in the New World raise for food?

• sheep

• pigs

• chickens

• none of these

Answer explanation

In the New World, indigenous peoples primarily raised animals like llamas and turkeys for food. Sheep, pigs, and chickens were introduced later by European settlers, making 'none of these' the correct answer.

Which country introduced sheep, pigs, chickens and horses to the Americas?

• Spain

• Portugal

• France

• Netherlands

Answer explanation

Spain introduced sheep, pigs, chickens, and horses to the Americas during the Columbian Exchange, significantly impacting agriculture and livestock in the New World.