STAAR - THE RANDOM STUFF

Front

Which African American patriot rode over 400 miles during the Revolutionary War to warn of a British attack?

Back

Wentworth Cheswell

Answer explanation

Wentworth Cheswell was an African American patriot who rode over 400 miles to alert colonists of British troop movements, similar to Paul Revere's famous ride, making him a key figure in the Revolutionary War.

Front

Which English legal scholar influenced American law with his writings on common law and natural rights?

Back

William Blackstone

Answer explanation

William Blackstone's writings on common law and natural rights significantly influenced American legal thought, particularly through his work 'Commentaries on the Laws of England', which shaped the foundation of U.S. law.

Front

Which Enlightenment thinker advocated for the separation of powers in government?

Back

Charles de Montesquieu

Answer explanation

Charles de Montesquieu is known for advocating the separation of powers in government, a concept that influenced modern democratic systems. His work 'The Spirit of the Laws' outlines this idea, distinguishing legislative, executive, and judicial powers.

Front

Which Medal of Honor recipient served in the U.S. Navy during the Civil War?

Back

Phillip Bazaar

Answer explanation

Phillip Bazaar was a U.S. Navy sailor who received the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Civil War, making him the correct answer. The other individuals listed were not Navy members during that time.

Front

Who was the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Civil War?

Back

William Carney

Answer explanation

William Carney was the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Civil War, specifically for his actions at the Battle of Fort Wagner in 1863.

Front

Who was the first African American to serve in the U.S. Senate?

Back

Hiram Revels

Answer explanation

Hiram Revels was the first African American to serve in the U.S. Senate, representing Mississippi from 1870 to 1871. The other figures listed, such as Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois, were influential but did not serve in the Senate.

Front

Who was a Revolutionary-era writer who used plays and pamphlets to support the Patriot cause?

Back

Mercy Otis Warren

Answer explanation

Mercy Otis Warren was a prominent Revolutionary-era writer who used her plays and pamphlets to advocate for the Patriot cause, making her a key figure in promoting independence and political thought during that time.

Front

Which African American spy provided critical intelligence during the Revolutionary War?

Back

James Armistead

Answer explanation

James Armistead was an African American spy who provided crucial intelligence to the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, significantly aiding in the American victory.

Front

What political party opposed Andrew Jackson and supported a strong Congress?

Back

Whig Party

Answer explanation

The Whig Party opposed Andrew Jackson's policies and advocated for a stronger role of Congress in government, contrasting with Jackson's emphasis on presidential power.

Front

What political party was known for its anti-immigrant and nativist views?

Back

Know-Nothing Party

Answer explanation

The Know-Nothing Party, active in the 1850s, was explicitly anti-immigrant and nativist, opposing the influx of immigrants and promoting American nationalism. This distinguishes it from the other parties listed.