Johann Hunt
How well do you know your home state? Test your knowledge with real clues from Jeopardy!, the ultimate trivia battleground! Learn about historic landmarks and famous cities as you try to dominate the final round when States take center stage. Are you ready to play?
California
Question: In 1969, which Los Angeles University became the birthplace of the internet on sending the first ARPANET message?
Answer: UCLA
In 1969, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) made history by sending the first message over ARPANET, the precursor to the modern internet. The first message was meant to be “login,” but the system crashed after just two letters: “lo.”
Texas
Question: Which historic mission in a Texan city became a rallying cry with the phrase: “Remember the Alamo!” during the Texas Revolution?
Answer: San Antonio
Remember the Alamo! San Antonio is home to this historic mission, where a small band of Texan defenders took a stand against a much larger Mexican force. The bravery shown here has been etched into the heart of Texas lore.
New York
Question: From 1892 to 1954, through which gateway island in New York Harbor did 12 million immigrants enter America?
Answer: Ellis Island
Often called the “Island of Hope,” Ellis Island was where millions began dreaming of a new life in America. The stories from this place remind us of the courage and resilience of those who came seeking the American dream.
Florida
Question: Established by the Spanish in 1565, which city in the Sunshine State is acknowledged as the oldest established European settlement in the United States?
Answer: St. Augustine
St. Augustine isn’t just another Florida beach town. Founded in 1565, it’s the oldest European-established settlement in the continental U.S. You can feel the history in its cobblestone streets and century-old buildings.
Illinois
Question: Known for towering architecture and pizza, which “Windy City” earned its nickname from 19th-century politicians?
Answer: Chicago
Its nickname, the “Windy City,” has nothing to do with the weather but everything to do with its 19th-century politicians and their speeches. But today, Chicago blows people away for reasons such as its towering skyscrapers, deep-dish pizza, and rich culture.
Louisiana
Question: In which iconic city does the French Quarter come alive yearly with vibrant parades and festivities during Mardi Gras?
Answer: New Orleans
If you’ve ever been to New Orleans during Mardi Gras, you know it’s an experience like no other. Apart from that, it’s also the birthplace of jazz, a genre that brings together a rich mix of African, Caribbean, and European influences.
Ohio
Question: In which Ohio city did the Wright Brothers, known for inventing the first successful airplane, own a bicycle shop?
Answer: Dayton
Wilbur and Orville Wright’s journey from bicycle shop owners in Dayton to aviation pioneers began with their fascination for flight and led them to develop the world’s first successful airplane in 1903.
Arizona
Question: Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, which breathtaking natural wonder stretches across Northern Arizona?
Answer: The Grand Canyon
Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, this natural wonder is more than just a pretty view—it’s a living proof of the power of nature and a reminder of the ancient history etched into the Earth’s surface.
Michigan
Question: Dubbed the “Motor City,” which Michigan metropolis is recognized as the heart of America’s automotive industry?
Answer: Detroit
Detroit, Michigan, is the Motor City where America’s love affair with cars really took off. Known as the center of the American auto industry, Detroit gave the world the assembly line and put the nation on wheels.
Nevada
Question: Which desert city dazzles with its famous “Strip,” offering endless entertainment and nightlife options?
Answer: Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Strip glows with an array of lights, luxury, and endless entertainment stretching as far as the eye can see. However, this famous place isn’t technically in the city itself; it’s in an unincorporated area called Paradise.
Hawaii
Question: On which volcanic island, can you stand face-to-face with the power of nature, as it reshapes the land beneath your feet?
Answer: The Big Island (Hawaii)
On the Big Island of Hawaii, you can see nature’s force as lava takes over the ground. It’s a clear reminder of how our world is constantly changing, with new land forming right before our eyes.
Alaska
Question: Which state was once mocked as “Seward’s Folly,” only later to reveal itself as a vast wilderness of untold riches?
Answer: Alaska
In 1867, many thought buying Alaska was a huge mistake, dubbing it “Seward’s Folly.” Fast-forward to today, and it’s clear that the icy wilderness is a treasure trove of natural beauty and resources.
Tennessee
Question: In which Tennessee city, known as the “Birthplace of Country Music,” did the soundtrack of American life begin to take shape?
Answer: Bristol
If you’ve ever tapped your foot to a country tune, you owe a nod to Bristol. This unassuming town was pivotal in bringing country music to the world. Country music is about the heart and soul of American life captured in every note.
Colorado
Question: Where can you be surrounded by peaks in a park that is more like a natural cathedral than just another hiking spot?
Answer: Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is surrounded by the grandeur of the Rockies, where every vista seems to reach the heavens. Nature’s splendor starkly contrasts the everyday grind, offering a breathtaking escape into the heart of the mountains.
Pennsylvania
Question: In 1776, delegates from the Thirteen Colonies met in which city to sign a document that declared their independence from Great Britain?
Answer: Philadelphia
Independence Hall in Philadelphia is where the Second Continental Congress met and adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The Liberty Bell, a powerful emblem of America’s quest for independence, is also located in Philadelphia.