California History Quiz

What unusual combination of items does the California state flag feature?

• A bald eagle, a green star, and the words "Golden State"

• A grizzly bear, a lone red star, and the words "California Republic"

• A mountain lion, a single blue star, and the words "Pacific State"

• A coyote, a yellow star, and the words "West Coast Republic"

What was the main idea behind the United States taking control of New Mexico and California?

• The United States wanted to expand its territory for trade purposes.

• The United States took control after winning a battle against the French.

• The United States took control of New Mexico and California after forcing Mexico to surrender at the end of the Mexican-American War.

• The United States was interested in the natural resources found in New Mexico and California.

Who did not fight against the United States, leading to the claim of the New Mexico Territory without a single soldier firing a weapon?

• General Stephen Kearny

• Santa Fe's Mexican governor, Manuel Armijo

• American explorer John C. Frémont

• The Mexican troops and militia

What name was given to the insurrection by American settlers in California on June 14, 1846?

• California Independence Movement

• Sonoma Freedom Uprising

• California Gold Rush

• Bear Flag Revolt

Who supported the settlers in Sonoma during their declaration of independence from Mexico?

• General Stephen Kearny

• Santa Fe's Mexican governor, Manuel Armijo

• American explorer John C. Frémont

• The Mexican troops and militia

Who was the elected leader of the short-lived Republic of California?

• General Winfield Scott

• Zachary Taylor

• Santa Anna

• Frémont

What action did American forces take in August 1846 during the conflict over California?

• They fought Santa Anna at Buena Vista

• They captured the city of Los Angeles

• They landed at Veracruz

• They raised the flag of the United States in Mexico City

By 1847, which territories did the United States control?

• California and New Mexico

• California and Texas

• New Mexico and Texas

• Texas and Mexico City

Who did President Polk order to take his troops to Mexico by sea?

• Frémont

• Santa Anna

• Zachary Taylor

• General Winfield Scott

Where did General Winfield Scott and his men land during their campaign in Mexico?

• Mexico City

• Rio Grande

• Veracruz

• Buena Vista