Ancient America Quiz

Many written languages of ancient America used writing systems that used symbols and pictures called _______________________.

• Glyphs

• Hieroglyphics

• Pictographs

• Runes

Answer explanation

The correct term is 'Glyphs' as it refers to symbols and pictures used in ancient writing systems. 'Hieroglyphics' specifically pertains to Egyptian writing, while 'Pictographs' are a broader category, and 'Runes' are associated with Germanic languages.

________________________ is a historic region in Central America that was home to many advanced civilizations.

• Mesoamerica

• Andes

• Amazon Basin

• Patagonia

Answer explanation

Mesoamerica is the correct term as it refers to the historic region in Central America known for its advanced civilizations, such as the Maya and Aztecs, unlike the other options which refer to different geographical areas.

Many indigenous groups of the Americas were ____________________________, or believers in more than one god.

• Polytheistic

• Monotheistic

• Atheistic

• Agnostic

Answer explanation

The term "polytheistic" refers to the belief in multiple gods, which accurately describes many indigenous groups of the Americas. In contrast, "monotheistic" means belief in one god, while "atheistic" and "agnostic" refer to disbelief or uncertainty about gods.

One of the earliest Mesoamerican groups who created a culture that influenced later civilizations were the __________________________.

• Zapotecs

• Mayans

• Aztecs

• Incas

Answer explanation

The Zapotecs were one of the earliest Mesoamerican civilizations, known for their significant cultural influence on later groups like the Mayans and Aztecs. They established early urban centers and contributed to Mesoamerican culture.

The __________________________ was an object made of strings and knots that the Inca used for communication.

• Quipu

• Abacus

• Papyrus

• Codex

Answer explanation

The correct term is 'Quipu', which refers to the Inca's unique communication tool made of strings and knots. The other options, such as 'Abacus', 'Papyrus', and 'Codex', do not relate to Inca communication.

The Maya adopted many cultural advancements, ideas, and traits from the

• The Aztec

• The Cherokee

• The Olmec

• The Inca

Answer explanation

The Maya adopted many cultural advancements from the Olmec, who were one of the earliest Mesoamerican civilizations. The Olmec influenced the Maya in areas such as art, architecture, and religious practices.

Which of the following was NOT a common crop that was grown by Mesoamerican civilizations?

• Clover

• Maize

• Squash

• Beans

Answer explanation

Clover was not a common crop in Mesoamerican civilizations. They primarily cultivated maize, squash, and beans, which were essential to their diet and agriculture.

What was the main use of pyramids in both the Maya and Aztec civilizations?

• As the palace for the emperor

• As a cultural center of the arts

• For weddings and traditional events that were reserved for powerful families

• For religious ceremonies like human sacrifice

Answer explanation

The main use of pyramids in both the Maya and Aztec civilizations was for religious ceremonies, including human sacrifice, which were integral to their spiritual beliefs and practices.

Who was the ultimate authority in the governments of both the Aztecs and the Incas?

• The High Priest

• City-state governors

• The Emperor

• The people

Answer explanation

The ultimate authority in both the Aztec and Inca governments was the Emperor. They held supreme power over political, military, and religious matters, unlike the High Priest or city-state governors who had limited roles.

One way that the Incas kept their empire connected was with

• An advanced written language

• A complex system of roads and bridges

• A yearly festival held in the capital city

• A requirement that people move around every few years

Answer explanation

The Incas maintained a vast empire through a complex system of roads and bridges, which facilitated communication and trade across their territory, unlike the other options that do not effectively connect the empire.