Dark Ages Practice Quiz 2

What period is often referred to as the 'Dark Ages' in Europe?

• 500–1500 CE
• 600–1450 CE
• 400–1000 CE
• 700–1300 CE

Answer explanation

The term 'Dark Ages' typically refers to 600–1450 CE in Europe.

Which city became the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate?

• Damascus
• Baghdad
• Cordoba
• Mecca

Answer explanation

Baghdad became the Abbasid capital in 750 CE.

What was a defining feature of feudalism in medieval Europe?

• A centralized government
• Reciprocal relationships between lords and vassals
• A robust trade network
• A strong middle class

Answer explanation

Feudalism was based on relationships between lords and vassals.

What was the life expectancy in medieval Europe during the Middle Ages?

• 25 years
• 28 years
• 30 years
• 40 years

Answer explanation

Life expectancy was slightly higher than during the Roman Empire.

Which Muslim scholar wrote 'The Canon of Medicine'?

• Ibn Rushd
• Ibn Sina
• Al-Khwarizmi
• Maimonides

Answer explanation

Ibn Sina authored the foundational medical text.

What was the House of Wisdom in Baghdad known for?

• Religious debates
• Political administration
• Translation and preservation of knowledge
• Military strategy

Answer explanation

It was a major center for knowledge and cultural preservation.

The Tang Dynasty is known for producing which major cultural achievements?

• Gunpowder and paper money
• The Great Wall of China
• Distinctly non-Chinese sculptures and poetry
• The Grand Canal

Answer explanation

Tang art highlighted empire diversity, including poetry.

What significant battle ended Chinese influence west of the Talas River?

• Battle of Baghdad
• Battle of Tours
• Battle of Talas River
• Battle of Constantinople

Answer explanation

The Battle of Talas River divided Abbasid and Tang influence.

The Abbasid Caliphate was more inclusive of non-Arab Muslims than the Umayyad Caliphate.

• True
• False

Answer explanation

The Abbasids integrated non-Arabs into positions of power.

The Middle Ages in Europe saw significant advancements in city planning and sewage management.

• True
• False

Answer explanation

European cities like London lacked proper planning and sanitation.