Exploring the Americas-Quiz

What advances in technology paved the way for European exploration?

• Development of the compass

• Invention of the steam engine

• Introduction of the printing press

• Discovery of electricity

Why was the Age of Exploration a major turning point in history?

• It led to the discovery of new trade routes

• It marked the beginning of the Industrial Revolution

• It initiated the first human spaceflight

• It resulted in the invention of the internet

What does the term 'circumnavigate' mean?

• To go around completely

• To navigate using stars

• To travel from north to south

• To explore unknown territories

Which explorer first saw the Pacific Ocean from Panama in 1513?

• Christopher Columbus

• Amerigo Vespucci

• Ferdinand Magellan

• Vasco Núñez de Balboa

Which event occurred in 1522 related to Magellan's crew?

• They discovered the Americas

• They sailed along the coast of South America

• They completed a trip around the world

• They discovered the Pacific Ocean

Which country was the first to find a new trade route to the Indies by going around the southern tip of Africa and then east toward Asia?

• Spain

• Italy

• Portugal

• France

What was the main reason European countries were interested in finding new trade routes to the Indies in the 1400s?

• To spread Christianity

• To find new lands to colonize

• To obtain spices to preserve and flavor food

• To explore uncharted territories

Which technology did not help Columbus in navigating long distances across the Atlantic Ocean?

• Maps

• Compass

• Quadrant

• Astrolabe

What significant event occurred on October 12, 1492, during Columbus's voyage?

• He returned to Spain

• He discovered the Pacific Ocean

• He landed on an island in the Bahamas

• He sailed around the southern tip of Africa

Why did Columbus call the native people he encountered "Indians"?

• He believed he had reached the West Indies

• He thought he was in India

• He was confused about his location

• He wanted to honor the people with a new name