Bissell

Bissell is often listed in the best vacuum category because each model cleans well and has a lot of bells and whistles. The brand is known for its bagless design, which keeps costs down. The vacuums are also famous for being dependable when cleaning pet hair.

The Model to Consider

Many great Bissell models will leave your home looking spotless. One of the best is their Featherweight Cordless Stick Vacuum. This tool is incredibly easy to use and very lightweight so you can get into the tough-to-reach spots with ease. The model also has several bending joints that allow you to get under the couch without having to bend down too far. Users have said that the vacuum is great on tough dirt and hair.

Belife

You may not be familiar with the Belife brand of vacuum cleaners, but you should be. Their vacuums are true hidden gems that are really powerful, especially for the price. These are great at cleaning carpets and hardwood floors. Most of the models are also very lightweight and easy to maneuver.

The Model to Consider

One of the most exciting Belife products to have in 2025 is the Belife BVC11 Cordless Vacuum. Among other things, the vacuum has great battery life, so you’ll never reach for it and find it out of power. The model also has many attachments and it can be modified to get to the tough spots. Finally, in testing, it had great suction in all spaces.

Black and Decker

Black and Decker is a brand that sells a variety of products, from power drills to coffee machines. It’s no surprise that people often bring them up when they talk about the best vacuums. Many Black and Decker vacuums are very sleek and powerful. Best of all, you can often switch the batteries with other B&D products you may own.

The Model to Consider

There are several notable models in the Black and Decker line, but for now, we’ll focus on the Power Series Extreme Cordless Vacuum. It’s no surprise that this vacuum has over 1,200 five-star reviews on Amazon.com. There’s a lot to love. It’s a beast when it comes to picking up hair, it has an easy on-off button, and it has different settings for different types of flooring. It doesn’t come with a ton of bells and whistles, but what it does, it does very well.

Eureka

Eureka is another dependable vacuum brand that will put Dyson and many other competitors to shame. These vacuums are powerful and dependable. Many models have a cleaning canister that is large enough that you can clean an entire house in one go. Eureka’s models also hold a charge for a long time so you can get everything done at once.

The Model to Consider

For this list, we choose the Eureka Lightweight Cordless Vacuum. When they say it’s lightweight, they mean it. You can easily carry this around and vacuum the stairs without struggling. The vacuum also comes with several attachments that allow you to clean anywhere with ease. It also has a dirt cup that’s easy to use, so you can continue vacuuming without long pauses. This is another great vacuum with many five-star reviews on Amazon.

Levoit

Levoit has been making great vacuum cleaners for a long time, and they only improve with age. They are more affordable than Dyson and they’re quite powerful. Each model comes with helpful attachments, and the brushes are equipped to pick up dirt and pet hair easily.

The Model to Consider

Of the many great Levoit vacuums to consider, we think the best vacuum in their current lineup is the Levoit VortexIQ 40 Cordless Stick Vacuum. This model is incredibly lightweight and it maneuvers very well, so you can clean it with little effort. You also get a handful of attachments that help you to clean around every corner. This model is also very smart. It has an intelligent auto mode that can automatically adjust how much suction is needed for the job.

Shark

Shark vacuums are often seen as a direct competitor to Dyson because they are both exceptional vacuum cleaner manufacturers. The big difference is that Shark is often the more affordable option. This brand is known for its DuoClean technology, which uses a traditional brush plus a soft roller to clean up all messes.

The Model to Consider

You could pick just about any Shark product, and it would make your house sparkling clean. Right now, we would like to highlight the Shark Wandvac Cordless Vacuum. This is another sleek model with many attachments and excellent maneuverability, so you can clean everywhere. You also get a five-year warranty. Perhaps the best feature is the self-emoting base. Once the vacuum is full, it transfers the dirt to the base, so you’re always ready to clean without hassle.

Tineco

You may not have heard of the Tineco brand before, but they easily have a place in the best vacuum category. Tineco products have many perks that most Dyson’s don’t. The dustbin is clear, so you can see when you need to empty it. Also, most Tineco’s come with an LED display that tells you when the vacuum is running out of suction, which is a great feature.

The Model to Consider

One of the best Tineco vacuums currently on the market is the Pure One S11 Cordless Vacuum. This is the vacuum for you if you love bells and whistles. It has the necessary attachments to make cleaning a breeze, like an app that syncs with your phone and a display that tells you when there’s only enough of a charge left for one more cleaning.

Samsung

If you have ever owned a Samsung product, then you know how flashy and dependable they are, so it’s only natural that they would be in the discussion for the best vacuum. Many Samsung vacuums are flashy and they will work for years without issues. If you have a Samsung TV or Samsung phone and you love it, then you’ll probably also love their cleaning products.

The Model to Consider

This electronics juggernaut continues to give us what we want with the Samsung Jet 60 Pet. In addition to cleaning dirt, the model also has a five-stage filtration system that captures allergens as you clean. This model is incredibly effective on pet hair and tough debris that most vacuums would simply pass over.

Question

The Axis Powers consisted of which three countries?

Answer: Italy, Germany, and Japan

While other countries were at times associated with the name the Axis Powers, Germany, Italy, and Japan were the most influential. Smaller countries included Romania, Slovakia, and Hungary. Adolf Hitler was the leader of Germany, Emperor Hirohito was the leader of Japan and Benito Mussolini was the leader of Italy.

The Axis Powers formed as a way to expand territory at the expense of bordering countries. They claimed to want to defend civilization from communism, but their agreement (formed mostly between Berlin and Rome in 1936) played a large part in sowing the seeds of war leading up to World War II.

In contrast, the Allied forces were essentially the “enemy” of the Axis Powers. The Allied forces consisted mostly of China, the United States, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain. Poland and France were also early members of the alliance, and the Soviet Union stepped in only after being invaded by the Germans.

Question

When the nuclear bomb was developed, what was the name of the project?

Answer: The Manhattan Project

The Manhattan Project was a super secret government program formed to create the atomic bomb. The results of the project had a profound impact on the end of the war and warfare since then.

The developers of the nuclear bomb lived in secret military bases in unknown locations with their families to protect them. The fruits of their labors include the two bombs dropped on Japan near the end of World War II, one in Hiroshima and one in Nagasaki. The two bombs dropped killed more than 100,000 people, not to mention the long-term effects of nuclear warfare.

Many claim the United States developed the nuclear bomb before another country had a chance to, and there are now international laws surrounding the use of nuclear warfare.

Question

What was the Blitzkrieg?

Answer: A Nazi Germany Military Tactic

Nazis used the blitzkrieg to quickly defeat enemies. they used infantry, tanks, air support, and artillery to create disorganization and psychological shock against their enemies. The strategy was to place offensive weapons at the front of the attack to keep soldiers occupied, then break deep into enemy territory while outnumbering them.

The German word blitzkrieg translates to “Lightning War” and this tactic helped Germany early in the war. It helped with the 1940 invasion of France and the 1939 destruction of the Polish Army. Elements of it exist in modern conflicts, but the foundation of the tactic traces back to the 19th century.

Question

When did World War II officially end?

Answer: 1945

This can be a tricky question because the war ended as different troops surrendered and leaders agreed to peace. From 1939 to 1945, the deadliest war in history raged in Europe, Asia, and the United States.

On September 2, 1945, United States President Harry Truman announced that Japan had officially surrendered. This was the same day Japan signed formal surrender documents aboard a United States Navy ship. The German Third Reich surrendered early on May 7, 1945, in northeastern France.

While the Germans surrendered long before Japan did, the United States engaged in an ongoing battle with Japan as its leaders continued to commit atrocities. The US government decided to drop the atomic bomb as a show of force to Japan, and after two bombings, they surrendered.

Question

What organization was formed after World War II to promote peace?

Answer: The United Nations

Formed in part to avoid another World War as countries rebuilt after a deadly, lengthy one, the United Nations (UN) has several specific goals. They promote human rights, maintain international peace and security, and keep things friendly between different nations.

51 countries founded the UN. The main bodies include the UN Secretariat, the International Court of Justice, the Trusteeship Council, the Economic and Social Council, the Security Council, and the General Assembly. Participating governments fund the UN.

Question

What is the name of the first battle where the German Nazis were defeated?

Answer: The Battle of Stalingrad

The German army and its allies moved from conquering European territory to the Soviet Union. They started with the city of Stalingrad in Southern Russia, and as they and their allies attacked, they were finally stopped by the Red Army, marking their first major defeat in World War II.

In November of 1942, Soviet forces encircled the Germans that were positioned in Stalingrad. The battle lasted until February 1943. The original German force consisted of 220,000 soldiers, while the soldiers who surrendered after the battle consisted of 91,000 forces, leaving Germany weak.

Question

How did the Allies trick the Germans before D-Day?

Answer: False Information and Campaigns

It’s hard to imagine a world where information isn’t ready at your fingertips at all times, but remember that it took weeks and even months to get reports from one continent to another. Many countries had no idea what was happening in concentration camps until soldiers uncovered the atrocities because there was no way to document and send it quickly. So using false information and campaigns was easier then.

Allied forces sent many dummy tanks and vehicles all over southeast England so Germany was closely watching the area expecting the forces to move there. Fake radio traffic also confused the Germans. This gave the Allied forces a bit of an advantage because while Germany knew there would eventually be a cross-channel invasion, they weren’t sure where it would happen.

Question

What’s the name of the trials where Nazies were tried after the end of the war?

Answer: The Nuremberg Trials

After World War II ended, Allied powers like the Soviet Union, France, Great Britain, and the United States joined forces to form an International Military Tribunal. Nazi German leaders stood trial from 1945-1946 for crimes against humanity, war crimes, crimes against peace, and conspiracy to commit these crimes.

While Germany had a huge army committing many of the war crimes associated with World War II, only 199 defendants stood trial in the Nuremberg Trials. 161 of those defendants were convicted and 37 received a death sentence. Leaders like Joseph Goebbels, Adolf Hitler, and Heinrich Himmler were unable to stand trial because they had already died by suicide.

Question

Which countries lost the most civilians during World War II?

Answer: The Soviet Union

Formerly known as the Soviet Union, this area split into different countries. During World War II, they lost around 19 million civilians. On top of that, they also lost 8.7 military members. To put that into context, German forces only had 5.3 million military casualties.

The Republic of China came in second but disputed how many civilians and military members they lost. Between the two areas, they account for more than half of the total civilian deaths from the war.

Question

What do we now call the Allied invasion of Normandy?

Answer: Operation Overlord or D-Day

Commonly referred to as D-Day, the military operation was the beginning of the end of the war and took unbelievable amounts of communication between the Allied powers. On June 6, 1944, sea, air, and land forces of the Allied armies completed the largest amphibious invasion in military history. The operation had the codename OVERLORD and included 7,000 ships manned by 195,000 personnel from eight different countries.

The Russian forces pushed from the eastern front while the other Allied armies pushed from the west, leading to the defeat of the German army. It’s estimated that 29,000 Americans were killed during the storming of Normandy and another 106,000 were wounded or missing.

Question

What was the major battle fought between the United States and Japan in 1942?

Answer: The Battle of Midway

The Battle of Midway took place almost six months after the Japanese ambush on Pearl Harbor. Japan’s goal was to remove the United States from the Pacific area so they could gain more power in the southwest Pacific islands and East Asia.

After days of fighting, United States troops forced the Japanese to retreat from the battle. Americans were prepared for the battle because they had learned how to break Japanese communication codes in 1942.

Question

What was the plan to help European countries improve economically after World War II?

Answer: The Marshall Plan

After the continent was ravaged by war, the rebuilding process began, with help from countries from all over the world. The Marshall Plan was created in 1947 by Secretary of State George Marshall and provided over $15 billion in aid to European countries over four years.

The Marshall Plan was designed to rebuild cities, industries, and infrastructure. This also helped the United States by removing trade barriers, fostering commerce between European countries, and providing a market for American goods to be sold.

Question

What policy was used to contain Communism after World War II?

Answer: Containment

The United States developed a strategic geopolitical foreign policy after the war to stop the spread of communism. It’s also known as the Truman Doctrine and simply stated that the United States would provide economic, military, and political aid to democratic countries that were threatened by communist influences.

There are four parts to the policy of containment. First, block the Soviet Union’s expansion of power. Second, expose Soviet pretensions. Third, retract the control and influence of the Kremlin. 4. Foster destruction within the Soviet Union

Question

What was the German Air Force called?

Answer: Luftwaffe

Luftwaffe was Germany’s version of the Air Force and was tasked with defending Germany in all air matters. Created in 1935, the Luftwaffe was commonly believed to be the strongest air force in the world and it played a huge part in Germany’s blitzkrieg battle tactics.

Over three million men served in paratrooper, air defense, and air force units from 1939 to 1945. The Allied forces disbanded the Luftwaffe after claiming victory in 1946.

Question

Which famous American general led troops in the Pacific?

Answer: General Douglas MacArthur

General MacArthur notably served in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War, and was one of the first servicemen to earn a five-star rank. He spent most of his life in the army and also served with the Phillippine Army as a field marshal.

He was given many military awards including the Army Medal of Honor, the Bronze Star Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the American Defense Service Medal.

Question

Which battle was fought in North Africa and was a turning point for the Allies?

Answer: Second Battle of El Alamein

The battle was fought between the Axis Powers and the British Eighth Army and prevented the spread of them into Egypt. This kept the Allied forces in charge of the Suez Canal and blocked forces from moving their invasion into the Middle East.

Question

What was the point of the Tokyo War Crimes Trials?

Answer: To Hold Japanese Leaders Accountable

In their effort to expand and take power over much of the Pacific, Japanese leaders committed atrocious war crimes and were held accountable during the Tokyo War Crimes Trials. They lasted twice as long as the Nuremberg trials and were created in part by General MacArthur.

The trial went on for 2.5 years and had over 4,300 exhibits of evidence submitted. Some defendants were found mentally unfit for trial while others were sentenced to death. Others were sentenced to life in prison.

Question

Which part of the French government collaborated with Nazi Germany?

Answer: The Vichy Regime

After France was conquered, the Vichy regime succeeded the Third Republic for a good portion of World War II. Also known as the French state, it was headed by Marshal Philippe Petain, the President of the Council.

The Vichy Regime collaborated with Nazy Germany in performing raids to capture Jews and other people considered undesirable.

Question

What did Nazi Germany call their plan to exterminate Jews?

Answer: The Final Solution

Nazi Germany’s leaders used the term “Final Solution of the Jewish Question” to speak of the mass murder of the Jewish people. Rather than encouraging Jewish people to leave Germany and move to other parts of Europe, it became a systematic annihilation.

Nazi leaders anticipated removing 11 million Jews from the heart as part of the “Final Solution” and succeeded in murdering six million. This was the final stage of the Holocaust.

Question

When did the Germans invade the Soviet Union?

Answer:

Germans invaded the Soviet Union in 1941 with Operation Barbarossa. This was history’s largest military ground invasion at the time, with thousands of aircraft and tanks, half a million horses, and almost four million troops involved. They advanced from the Gulf of Finland to the Black Sea across all of Eastern Europe.

Despite their efforts, German troops were unable to defeat Soviet forces, which was a crucial turning point. Eventually, many German troops froze to death in the harsh winter of Russia, while Russian troops were better prepared to fight in the rough conditions.

Scott

For many years, Scott paper towels have been some of the best towels in the industry, second only to Brawny. However, I’m starting to like Scott more. Since 1879, Scott has been all about “common sense on a roll,” and they have some great products.

Best Scott Products

There are many reasons why I put Scott above much of the competition. Their primary paper towels are incredibly absorbent and strong, so they can handle just about any mess with ease. They also have other great products that I have around my house, including their four-pack of toilet paper that has 1,000 sheets that can last for weeks.

Brawny

As I continue to enjoy my cleaning journey, I am also finding that anther one of the best paper towel brands is Brawny. They have some of the softest paper towels, which is rather ironic since the company started out in the lumber business. Brawny is one of the largest brands. They even own Angel Soft and other popular companies, so there’s a lot to love.

Why Choose Brawny

Brawny is famous for its incredible paper towel products. Some of their best products include their huge full-sheet rolls that allow you to clean up countless messes. One of the best things about these Brawny paper towels is that you can either tear them into squares or sheets of a specific size for the specific mess. The ability to pick and choose gives Brawny the edge over Bounty.

Sparkle

Most people run to the main brand paper towels, thinking that they’re the best. Yes, Brawny and Bounty are great, but you’ll be surprised what you find by expanding your horizons. One of the great paper towel companies is Sparkle. This is a budget towel company, meaning you may not get fancy designs and endless frills, but you will get a very absorbent paper towel for a great price.

Great Sparkle Products

Sparkle is undoubtedly one of the best paper towel brands. You get the same options as Bounty, like the ability to tear paper towels into squares or a sheet of your size, and you get them for a great price. If you have kids, then the added benefit of Sparkle products is that they have an adorable fairy on the packaging, which makes these paper towels fun for the whole family.

Viva

Viva paper towels are wonderful, which is a fact that’s not much of a surprise. After all, Viva is owned by the company Kimberly-Clark, which is one of the largest paper producers that also makes pull-ups, Kleenex, and more. Viva paper towels set themselves apart because they are one-ply. However, they’re almost as thick as two-ply, so you’re getting a better bang for the buck.

What’s Good at Viva?

You have a couple of choices when it comes time to pick up a great Sparkle product. For a great towel that tackles any mess, try their signature cloth that is soft, durable, and more than capable. Viva also has a multi-surface cloth that is pretty unbelievable because it can clean messes anywhere you find them. Either way, you’re good to go!

Green Forest

Another one of the paper towel brands that often falls off of the radar is the Green Forest brand. This is a great brand to try if you have messes to tackle but you also want to help the environment. Green Forest paper towels are made out of 100% recycled material. The company also makes toilet paper and facial tissue. Still, even though they’re “green” towels, they still do the job well.

Green Forest Products

In addition to being environmentally friendly, there’s also a Green Forest product for just about any need. As far as paper towels, you’re limited to a pack of one or three. However, the company has a lot more to offer, including various toilet paper, napkins, and facial tissue products. Fill your home with these products and you’ll be mess-free while helping the planet. 

Kirkland Signature

When you’re looking for a bargain but you still want a great product, look no further than Kirkland. Often found at Costco stores, Kirkland makes high-quality paper towels that people love. In fact, as of 2020, Kirkland was America’s highest-selling towel brand. In addition to being great for any job, Kirkland paper towels are also very affordable.

Kirkland Offers a Lot for a Great Price

Head down the aisle at Costco, and you’ll be amazed when you see the huge package of 12 rolls with 160 sheets per roll. These are create-a-size sheets so you can tackle any mess. They’re also two-ply, so they can handle anything. All-in-all, you’re getting 1,026 square feet of paper towel goodness.

Seventh Generation

Another great paper towel option for folks who love to clean messes while also helping the planet, we have Seventh Generation, which is one of the best in the game. This company is obsessed with saving the environment, which is why it makes all of its paper towels and other products out of plants.

Strong Paper Towels

Make no mistake. Just because the paper towels are plant-based, it doesn’t mean they can’t handle tough messes. The towels are thick and absorbent, and they do a great job even when they’re already wet. These paper towels don’t use any inks, dyes, or fragrances, so you’re not going to get a cute design on each sheet. But do you really need that? You can purchase them individually or as a six-pack.

Marcal

Finally, no list of high-quality paper towel brands would be complete without mentioning Marcal. You may not have heard of these before, so it’s time to get acquainted. This is another brand that claims to sell 100% recycled products, which helps your kitchen and the environment. This brand avoids the use of dyes or fragrances, is virtually lint-free, and is made in the United States.

Marcal Paper Products

The Marcal company does it all. They make paper towels, tissue, dispensers, and more. Though the paper towels are a bit more expensive when compared to other brands, they’re well worth a try. The towels are very absorbent, and they can be used time after time. Marcal is a great brand that may soon be your new favorite.

CrossWave OmniFind – Bissell

Price: $229.99

With the Bissell CrossWave OmniFind, you can vacuum and mop at the same time. It has 25 minutes of cordless cleaning power, so there is no need to have it plugged in. It features FurFinder headlights so you can easily find dirt and pet hair.

The Tangle-Free technology diminishes clogging and pet hair wrap. It also features two tanks to keep clean and dirty water separate. After you’re finished using it, with just a click of a button, the inside and brush rolls are cleaned with a self-cleaning cycle. 

Zing Canister Bagless Vacuum – Bissell

Price: $79.99

The Zing Canister Bagless vacuum is lightweight and weighs only 11 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around while you vacuum. It features an easy, empty dirt cup for hassle-free cleaning, and the cyclonic technology offers a strong, powerful, continuous suction along hard floors and carpets.

Mighty Mite Canister Vacuum – Eureka

Price: $82.45

The Mighty Mite Canister Vacuum makes cleaning super easy and weighs less than nine pounds. You can use it to vacuum tiles, wooden floors, rugs, and carpets. The robust brush rolls deep clean the carpets. Included is a set of tools that make cleaning upholstery, stairs, and hard-to-reach places easy. Furthermore, it comes with a one-year warranty.

J15 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum – Eureka

Price: $999.99

The J15 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum comes with an 8-in-1 multifunctional base that automatically refills the water, and hot water is used to mop and dry floors. It also has dock self-cleaning with battery changing, providing you with a hassle-free clean.

With a 16,200 Pa suction, it deep cleans floors and removes 99% of debris. Furthermore, it also features anti-hair tangling technology and is cheaper than the Dyson robot vacuum.

APEX Duo Clean Vacuum – Shark

Price: $449.99

The APEX Duo Clean Upright Vacuum removes debris, pet hair, dirt, and dust quickly. It can collect 1.5 qt of grime or dirt in the bag. You will experience outstanding cleaning performance with its powerful 1,350W motor. Furthermore, it includes a pet multi-tool, dual rotating brush bars, and a deep-cleaning motorized pet tool.

Clean & Empty Lightweight Cordless Vacuum – Shark

Price: $249

What is good about this vacuum is that the auto-empty dock is 1.3L and locks in 99.97% of dirt and debris. That means no more emptying every day; you can empty it once per month. It’s lightweight and can be transformed into a handheld cleaner. Furthermore, it has 40 minutes of run time, and it auto-adjusts to floor types.

CordZero A925 – LG

Price: $398

The LG CordZero uses compressor technology, so there is no need to stop and empty it. Next, it has two rechargeable batteries for an impressive 120 minutes of cleaning time. The portable charging stand allows you to store and charge it anywhere. Furthermore, it has removable, washable filters and a cyclone system. And multi-surface cleaning makes it perfect for pet owners.

CordZero A949 – LG

Price: $748

The CordZero A949 has 265 AW suction power, allowing you to tackle any surface. The smart inverter motor has a 10-year limited warranty, and you get up to 200 minutes of performance. When docked, it automatically empties the dustbin.

The dual floor max nozzle allows you to clean hard floors and carpets. Excitingly enough, it also converts to a spray mop so you can easily get rid of those stubborn stains. Included is the power pet nozzle so you can easily remove pet hair and more.

LVAC 200 – Levoit

Price: $149.99

This cordless stick vac has a tangle-resistant design and gets up to 50 minutes of power. It’s flexible and lightweight. Cleaning up pet hair is simple with the special 2-in-1 pet tool. The dusting brush can be used as a crevice tool for difficult-to-reach areas. Finally, the 5-stage filtration system catches 99.9% of dust.

Replacement Filter For LVAC 200 – Levoit

Price: $21.99

Original filters can be purchased. This set includes 2 post-motor and 4 pre-motor filters. This makes it affordable for you to replace and purchase.

WindTunnel – Hoover

Price: $129.99

WindTunnel technology offers better suction while multi-cyclonic filtration eliminates deep-down dirt and surface particles. It has versatile tools for hard-to-reach areas, corners, stairs, and upholstery. You will be happy with spotless floors from America’s most trusted brand.

ONEPWR WindTunnel – Hoover

Price: $222.75

With the multi-surface brush roll, you can easily switch between floor types. It’s impressive how quiet and powerful this vacuum is, and it also comes with special tools to convert it into a handheld vacuum for those hard-to-reach places. It features a ONEPWR battery system and can clean for up to 45 minutes.

22614 Pet Friendly – Kenmore

Price: $279.99

This lightweight vacuum has the best suction. The pet powermate feature that lifts dirt and stubborn pet hair quickly is great and it’s easy to clean and can be used on all types of floors. It has a 24’ retractable cord, and all accessories fit nicely into it.

600 Series – Kenmore

Price: $319.99

With a multipurpose w/swivel this vacuum cleans all surfaces. The 2-motor system has great suction power. It comes with a pop-n-go floor brush, 2-floor nozzles, and 3 additional attachments.

Multi-Surface Extended Reach+ – Dirt Devil

Price: $83.99

With the extended reach+, you can be sure your home will be spotless from floor to ceiling. It has a 4-level height adjustment and PowerPass technology and can clean both high- and low-pile carpets. It has a strong suction and a long cord and works wonderfully for a great price. 

BD57000V Cordless Stick – Dirt Devil

Finally, we have the lightweight, self-standing, cordless stick. Suitable for hard floors and carpets. It has a super powerful suction and LED headlights and can also be used as a hand vac. This vacuum is ideal for the elderly and those who struggle to lift heavy machines.

As previously mentioned, it’s always best to shop around and find a vacuum that suits your needs. While the Dyson is good, these 8 vacuum brands might be even better.

When Was the First Battle of the War?

The Civil War’s first battle was the Battle of Fort Sumter. It started on April 12, 1861, and ended the next day. It was the official start of the war as Union forces fired on Confederate forces, and occurred in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. The Union surrendered Fort Sumter to the Confederacy.

Although there were no casualties during the bombardment, a cannon exploded prematurely while firing during the evacuation salute, killing Union solider Private Daniel Hough and mortally wounding another Union solider.

When Were All Slaves Freed?

It’s a common misconception that once President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, all slaves were automatically freed, but the truth is much more complicated. Enslaved people were free by declaration on December 6, 1865, and the proclamation only freed those in Confederate states, not Union-held slave states or states the Union already controlled.

After the proclamation on January 1, 1863, Union General Gordon Granger set out on horseback to inform those in all Confederate states. Because travel was slow back then, word didn’t reach Galveston, Texas, until June 19, 1865. Once he arrived, he issued General Order No. 3 to end slavery in Texas. This day is now celebrated as Juneteenth and is a federal holiday.

Simply freeing the enslaved people didn’t fix the problem. Many had no land, no money, and little education. The process of providing equal rights to all people continues today.

Why Did the Confederacy Surrender?

The Confederacy surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant in Virginia on April 9, 1865. General Robert E. Lee completed the process at Appomattox Court House after realizing their efforts were futile. While this was the beginning of the end, it took several weeks for all Confederacy forces to surrender.

There were many reasons why the Confederacy surrendered. One was the Union’s military success, like those at the Battle of Gettysburg, the March to the Sea that decimated Southern infrastructure, and the siege of Petersburg. The second reason was the blockade of Southern ports by the Union’s blockade which crippled the economy and led to shortages of weapons, food, and ammunition.

The population became tired of war when the Confederate economy began to crumble because of its heavy reliance on agriculture and slavery. The Confederate army had little foreign support from places like France and Britain. These forces remained neutral during the war.

The Union army had a larger industrial base and a larger population of soldiers. This made it easy for them to prepare for a long-term strategy, while the Confederacy was losing forces in devastating numbers.

Who Were the Powerful Leaders of the Confederacy?

The army’s primary political leader, Jefferson Davis, was the President of the Confederate States of America during the war. Alexander H. Stephens was his vice president, although they clashed often.

General Robert E. Lee was the army’s most celebrated leader and General of the Army of Northern Virginia. He was also the one who surrendered to the Union army at the end of the war. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson worked under General Lee and is most famous for his role in the First Battle of Bull Run. He was killed in 1863, and this devastated the Confederate army’s morale.

Other important military leaders include J.E.B. Stuart, James Longstreet, Joseph E. Johnston, P.G.T. Beauregard, Juda P. Benjamin, and Nathan Bedford Forrest.

Who Were the Major Leaders of the Union?

Ulysses S. Grant served as the General-in-Chief of the Union Army for one year until it ended and was one of the Union’s most successful generals. Abraham Lincoln was the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Union army, while Edwin Stanton served as the Secretary of War.

William Tecumseh Sherman was a key subordinate of General Grant and is famous for the war tactics employed during the March to the Sea through Georgia and the Carolinas. Other important figures include Commander of the Army of the Potomac George Meade, George H. Thomas, Winfield Scott, Joseph Hooker, and Ambrose Burnside.

What Was the Bloodiest Battle of the War?

The Battle of Gettysburg was fought around Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, from July 1 to July 3, 1863. The Confederacy suffered more than 51,000 casualties including missing, captured, wounded, or killed soldiers. The Union suffered approximately 23,000 casualties.

This was a turning point in the war, as General Lee’s invasion of the North was halted by the Union’s victory. This weakened the Confederacy’s belief that they could sustain the war and boosted Union morale.

While this was the deadliest battle of the war, the bloodiest day was September 17, 1862, at the Battle of Antietam. In one single day, more than 22,000 soldiers were wounded, killed or missing.

What was the Dred Scott Decision?

In 1857, the United States Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling known as the Dred Scott Decision. The decision stated that Congress should not prohibit slavery in the territories, that slaves were property, and that African Americans were not citizens. Dred Scott was a Missouri slave who was taken by his owner to free territories and sued for his freedom.

This decision polarized the nations and created a deep division between the South and the North. It halted the efforts of many to stop slavery. It contributed to the rise of the Republican Party and greatly influenced the election of 1860 when Abraham Lincoln was elected.

The Dred Scott Decision was a legal precedent until the 13th and 14th Amendments were ratified. The 13th Amendment abolished slavery and the 14th amendment gave African Americans citizenship.

What Role Did African Americans Play in the Conflict?

African Americans contributed greatly to both sides of the war. Their involvement played an integral part in the struggle for equality and freedom. They were a key labor force in the south and many escaped to Union lines where they were accepted as property of the enemy.

African Americans joined the Union army after the Emancipation Proclamation. By the end of the war in 1865, almost 180,000 African American men had enlisted in the army. They served in artillery, cavalry, and infantry, and as nurses, laborers, and cooks.

Leaders like Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, and Fredrick Douglass worked during the war to free slaves and fight for equal rights for all. The presence of these leaders along with the African American soldiers did much to boost morale and contribute to the military.

African American women served as spies, nurses, and home front support. They organized clothing and food drives, supported their families, and cared for the wounded and sick soldiers. In summary, the contributions of African Americans in the war greatly helped with the abolition of slavery and the groundwork for the Civil Rights movement.

Question

What is the largest freshwater lake not only in the U.S. but the world by surface area?

Answer: Lake Superior

Lake Superior covers approximately 31,700 square miles.

Question

What is the only state in the U.S. that shares its border with only one other state?

Answer: Maine

The only state that Maine shares its border with is New Hampshire.

Question

Why is Great Salt Lake in Utah salty?

Answer: No Outlet

Utah’s Great Salt Lake is salty because there are no outlets. Its tributaries deliver small amounts of salt, and once that water reachest the lake, it evaporates, leaving the salt behind.

Question

Which river flows through more states than any other U.S. river, and how many states does it flow through?

Answer: The Mississippi River

The Mighty Mississippi flows through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana.

Question

What is the most densely populated state in the nation?

Answer: New Jersey

New Jersey covers 8,723 square miles and has a population of 9.6 million people. That makes it the most densely populated state in the nation, with 1,259 people per square mile.

Question

What is the Mason-Dixon Line?

Answer: A Land Dispute Resolution

While many Americans simplify the purpose of the Mason-Dixon Line as separating the north from the south, its original purpose was to resolve a border dispute between the British colonies of Pennsylvania and Maryland. It is named after the land surveyors, Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon and in pre-Civil War times, it was the line dividing slate states of the south and “free-soil” states of the north.

Question

How long is the Appalachian Trail, and where does it start and end?

Answer

The Appalachian Trail is 2,190 miles. It stretches from Katahdin, Maine to Springer Mountain, GA. FUN FACT: Tara Dower just beat the record for fastest time completing the thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. She did it in 40 days, 18 hours and 6 minutes. The average hiker takes 5-7 months to complete the journey.

Question

Where is the longest coastline in the United States?

Answer: Alaska

Alaska holds the title of the longest U.S. coastline. It spans 6,640 miles along the Pacific Ocean.

Question

What is the lowest point in the United States?

Answer: Death Valley

Death Valley is located at -279 feet below sea level, making it the lowest point in the United States. It also receives the least amount of rain.

Question

What is the highest point in the United States?

Answer: Denali

The highest point in the United States is Denali in Alaska, which measures 20,310 feet above sea level.

Question

What are the smallest and the largest states?

Answer: Rhode Island and Alaska

Rhode Island measures 1,545 square miles while Alaska clocks in at 663,268 square miles.

A Little Light Reading

This little girl relaxes in her Lexington, KY treehouse while she peruses the latest publication.

Taking to the Streets

This pack rides their wooden scooters through the streets of Boston in the mid-1950s.

Hit the Road

This little girl gets some pointers from Mom before she hits the streets of Detroit circa 1955.

The Gift of Gab

Sometimes it’s fun to just sit around and chat with your bestie. That’s how these little girls passed the time in Mt. Vernon, Alabama in 1956.

Stay Hydrated

Here, a young boy takes a cool sip of water from the fountain at his summer camp, circa 1950.

Grab a Shower

Here, two small children enjoy a cold spray courtesy of a water hydrant in New York City circa 1950.

Gone Fishing

Two kids exploring the river, one with a rod and reel, circa 1950.

Roller Skating

This young fella laced up his skates and took to the streets of his Hawaiian neighborhood back in the mid-1950s.

Diving Into Summer

This Indiana swimming pool was a popular place to cool off in the mid-1950s.

Take Aim

These boys learned the sport of archery at their summer camp circa 1950.

Family Entertainment

Here, a mother and her daughter take in a mail train robbery re-enactment at an entertainment ghost town in Buena Park, California in the mid-1950s.

Stealing Some Shade

Here, two boys and their father enjoy a shady respite with their pooch during a hot Long Island summer circa 1956.

Easily Amused

Children take a spin on a ride at the Playland Amusement Park in Rye, NY circa 1955.

Sand and Sea

Some activities are timeless, like a day at the beach. All you need is a bucket and shovel to create endless hours of fun and lifelong memories like these children did circa 1950.

Greetings From Camp

Here, two boys at summer camp take a moment to write a letter home, circa 1950

Riding a Rubber Ring

Before the fancy and fun inflatables of the 21st century, kids enjoyed floating on old tire inner tubes. Here, a young boy floats on the water in New York circa 1955.

Take a Summer Snooze

And finally, an image that perhaps best illustrates the notion of a lazy summer, this 6-year-old boy enjoys a summer snooze in a giant tree in Upstate New York in 1952.

Question

What is the largest freshwater lake not only in the U.S. but the world by surface area?

Answer: Lake Superior

Lake Superior covers approximately 31,700 square miles.

Question

What is the only state in the U.S. that shares its border with only one other state?

Answer: Maine

The only state that Maine shares its border with is New Hampshire.

Question

Why is Great Salt Lake in Utah salty?

Answer: No Outlet

Utah’s Great Salt Lake is salty because there are no outlets. Its tributaries deliver small amounts of salt, and once that water reachest the lake, it evaporates, leaving the salt behind.

Question

Which river flows through more states than any other U.S. river, and how many states does it flow through?

Answer: The Mississippi River

The Mighty Mississippi flows through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana.

Question

What is the most densely populated state in the nation?

Answer: New Jersey

New Jersey covers 8,723 square miles and has a population of 9.6 million people. That makes it the most densely populated state in the nation, with 1,259 people per square mile.

Question

What is the Mason-Dixon Line?

Answer: A Land Dispute Resolution

While many Americans simplify the purpose of the Mason-Dixon Line as separating the north from the south, its original purpose was to resolve a border dispute between the British colonies of Pennsylvania and Maryland. It is named after the land surveyors, Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon and in pre-Civil War times, it was the line dividing slate states of the south and “free-soil” states of the north.

Question

How long is the Appalachian Trail, and where does it start and end?

Answer

The Appalachian Trail is 2,190 miles. It stretches from Katahdin, Maine to Springer Mountain, GA. FUN FACT: Tara Dower beat the record for fastest time completing the thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. She did it in 40 days, 18 hours and 6 minutes. The average hiker takes 5-7 months to complete the journey.

Question

Where is the longest coastline in the United States?

Answer: Alaska

Alaska holds the title of the longest U.S. coastline. It spans 6,640 miles along the Pacific Ocean.

Question

What is the lowest point in the United States?

Answer: Death Valley

Death Valley is located at -279 feet below sea level, making it the lowest point in the United States. It also receives the least amount of rain.

Question

What is the highest point in the United States?

Answer: Denali

The highest point in the United States is Denali in Alaska, which measures 20,310 feet above sea level.

Question

What are the smallest and the largest states?

Answer: Rhode Island and Alaska

Rhode Island measures 1,545 square miles while Alaska clocks in at 663,268 square miles.

Apple Answers

If you have 200 apples and give 164 to a friend, how many apples do you have left?

Answer

Story problems are notorious for being difficult, but the formula for the answer is simple.

Total apples = Number of apples you have (-) number of apples you gave away

Total apples=200-164

Answer: You have 36 apples

Fraction Frustration

Is 3/4 bigger than 2/3?

Answer

Fractions give everyone a headache. Here are step-by-step directions to solve this problem.

Is 3/4 > 2/3?

Find a common denominator for 4 and 3. A common denominator is a number both divide evenly into. In this case, it would be 12.

Convert the fractions to have 12 as the denominator. Since you multiply 4 x 3 to get 12 in the first fraction, also multiply 3 x 3. Since you multiply 3 x 4 in the second fraction, multiply 2 x 4.

Simplify the equation: Is 9/12 > 8/12. With the same denominator, we can easily compare the two. 9/12 is bigger than 8/12, which means 3/4 is bigger than 2/3.

Time Troubles

If school starts at 7:45 AM and is 6 hours 30 minutes long, what time does it end?

Answer

Remember that time only goes to 60 when adding these numbers together.

7:45 AM + 6 hours 30 minutes = 2:15 PM

Coin Calculation

If you have a dime, a penny, and a quarter, how much money do you have?

Answer

A dime is worth 10 cents, a quarter is worth one and a quarter is worth 25. Add them together.

10+25+1 = 36 cents

Measurement Miscellaneous

If two watermelons weigh six pounds and the first one weighs four pounds, how much does the second one weigh?

Answer

Use simple subtraction to solve this question.

6 – 4 = 2 pounds

Addition Actions

What is 348 + 356?

Answer

Methods change, but this is a fairly simple question, and you can add in columns or if you have access to a calculator.

348 + 356 = 704

Shading Solutions

If a circle has eight parts and four of them are shaded in, what percentage is shaded?

Answer

This involves creating a fraction and simplifying it, then multiplying it by 100 to get a percentage.

4/8 circles are shaded, which reduces to 1/2, so 1/2 of the circle is shaded. Take 1/2 and multiply by 100, which gives 50%.

Simple Spending

If Anna has $10 and she buys a toy for $3.50, how much money does she have left?

Answer

Adding and subtracting with decimals is a bit more complicated, but it’s easy once you figure it out.

10.00 – 3.50 = $6.50

Ruler Reactions

If one straw is eight inches long and the other is six inches long how much longer is the first straw?

Answer

Solve this one with a simple subtraction equation.

8 – 6 = 2 inches longer than the first straw

Rounding Reflections

Round the number 679 to the nearest hundred.

Answer

For this, you must determine if 679 is closer to 600 or 700. It’s 79 away from 600 and only 21 away from 700.

That makes the answer 700.

Geometry Guesses

How many angles are in a rectangle?

Answer

A rectangle has four right angles. The right angles are 90 degrees.

Placing Problems

What is the value of the digit 7 in the number 874?

Answer

In the number 874, the number 7 is the tens place, while 8 is in the hundreds and 4 is the ones place.

Sequence Structures

In the following sequence, what is the next number? 5, 10, 15, 20, ___?

Answer

Sequences are similar to patterns, so the key to understanding them is to figure out how the previous numbers or shapes are placed. For example, in the question on the former slide, there are five numbers between each number in the sequence. That means that the final number would be 20 + 5, or 25.

More Money

This cute kitty sweater’s full price is $10.00, but it’s on sale for 25% off. Before you head to the register, let’s figure out how much you need to buy it.

Answer

One could argue that fractions, area, and perimeter aren’t as useful in real life as many other math topics. A concept that students will face their entire lives is money percentages and losses. Whether they’re buying groceries, figuring out change at a retail job, or trying to calculate a discount, these math problems show up all over. In this one, you must determine what 25% of $10.00 is. Here’s how to do it.

You can determine the percentage of an amount by moving the decimal two places to the right and multiplying the number then. For example, in the problem listed above, 25 would change to .25 and you would multiply it by ten.

10 X .25 = $2.50

This isn’t the end of the problem. $2.50 is the discount on the sweater, not the final cost. So the next equation is 10 – 2.50 = $7.50. The sweater costs $7.50 with the discount.

Telling Time

If the clock shows 12:30, how long until it’s 1 PM?

Answer

We’ve discussed time a bit before, but just like with percentages and fractions, there are different ways to answer every question. This one is posed a bit differently, as you have to figure out how much time is left between 12:30 PM and 1 PM.

Remember that time doesn’t go to 100, only to 60. So 1 PM would be the 60th minute in the hour. If the clock is already at 12:30, then 60 – 30 equals 30. There are 30 minutes left until 1 PM.

Remainder Reflection

What is 29 divided by 5?

Answer

Some numbers divide evenly into others, but when they don’t, you’ve got a messy remainder on your hands. These can be hard to understand and create real-life applications, which is why so many Americans get confused by them, no matter their age.

The problem is what is 29 divided by 5? Five divides into 29 five times evenly but leaves four behind. That means the answer is five with a remainder of four. This can also be written as 5 R4.

Counting Chaos

Start at 25 and count by 5. What is the eighth number in the sequence?

Answer

Here, we have another pattern-type question, but with a twist. You’ll start at a pre-set number and figure out what the 8th number is. The first thing to do is create a sequence, adding five to each number starting with 25. Once you’ve done this eight times, you have your answer.

1. 25 + 5 = 30
2. 30 + 5 = 35
3. 35 + 5 = 40
4. 40 + 5 = 45
5. 45 + 5 = 50
6. 50 + 5 = 55
7. 55 + 5 = 60
8. 60 + 5 = 65

Multiplication Messes

What is 8 X 9?

Answer

Once you’ve learned your multiplication tables, these questions are easier, but the higher the number, the harder it gets. If you don’t have your table in front of you, you need to add eight together nine times to get the answer. Fortunately, times tables are one of the first things kids learn in math.

What is 8 X 9 = 72

Comparison Chaos

Which number is greater: 247 or 366?

Answer

These get easier as time goes on, but sometimes it’s difficult to compare two numbers, especially when they get bigger. Once they hit millions or billions, it’s extremely difficult to solve this quickly. But this one is pretty simple.

One way to look at this is to examine the hundreds spot. One has the number two and the other has the number three. That would make the second number bigger automatically. If the hundreds were the same, you would then check the tens, then the ones. In this case 366 > 247.

Word Wisdom

If there are 12 students at each table in a class, how many students are in four tables?

Answer

This is a simple multiplication problem if you can identify the numbers. If you have four tables with 12 students, you can use your multiplication tables to find the number, or you may even remember it.

12 (students at each table) X 4 (total tables in class) = 48 students total

Who is This President?

The first of the American presidents you likely can’t identify is this man. He should be one of the easiest to guess on this list as he is one of the most recent and recognizable.

Answer

That is Jimmy Carter. He had a real knack for finding solutions to international conflicts and he even won the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. He’s generally known as a peaceful president.

Who is This President?

Do you know who this president is? Hint: He was often portrayed by Chevy Chase on Saturday Night Live.

Answer

That is President Gerald Ford. He is known for being the only president who was not elected. Instead, he became president after Richard Nixon resigned. Ford’s presidency had mixed results as he likely wasn’t ready for the big job.

Who is This President?

This is one of the American presidents that many people forget. However, he did a lot for the country. Do you know who he is?

Answer

That is a photo of President Lyndon B. Johnson. He was a very productive president as he helped to create the Apollo space program, and the Higher Education Act of 1965, and he signed the Nationality Act of 1965, which affected immigration from other countries.

Who is This President?

Who is this president? He had a major impact on the world in many ways. He made a big decision during World War II.

Answer

That is President Harry Truman. He was the president that authorized the dropping of atomic bombs on Japan. He helped World War II reach its final stage. The world may have been a very different place without him.

Who is This President?

Do you know who this president is? Many people consider him to be amongst the best presidents our country has ever had, even though he may have overstayed his welcome.

Answer

That is President Franklin D. Roosevelt. He is famous for serving more than two terms. He’s also the reason why a president can no longer serve more than two terms. Still, he was a great president who helped our country get through the Great Depression.

Who is This President?

This was another one of the important presidents of our past. Do you know who this is?

Answer

That is President Woodrow Wilson. He was the 28th president. It was his decision that we should enter World War I as a way to preserve a safe world. He also signed the Treaty of Versailles.

Who is This President?

Can you name this American president? Hint: He shares his name with a popular vacuum brand.

Answer

That is President Herbert Hoover. He had a big part in popularizing radio and air travel. He was a great administrator and engineer who helped the country in different ways than many other presidents. He was a great thinker who offered many solutions.

Who is This President?

This is one of the old-school American presidents. Do you know him?

Answer

That is President Zachary Taylor. He was a war hero before be became president and he used those skills while he was in office. Taylor also urged California and New Mexico to become states and helped to shape the country.

Who is This President?

Do you know this famous president? He is famous for different reasons than any other president.

Answer

This is President William Henry Harrison. He was the ninth president. Although he had great plans for the nation, sadly, he died in office after only 32 days.

Who is This President?

Who is this energetic president? He was a great leader during the early part of the century.

Answer

That is President Calvin Coolidge. He was a friend of the Native Americans. By signing the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924, he welcomed them all as citizens. His economic policies lead to a time of prosperity known as the “Roaring Twenties.”

Who is This President?

This is one of the American presidents from a long time ago. You’d be forgiven if you didn’t recognize him. However, try to guess anyway!

Answer

That is President James Buchanan. He was the 15th president, and the last one before the Civil War. He’s not the most fondly remembered president, but he was a product of his time.

Who is This President?

This is one of the American presidents that more people may be familiar with. His face is often seen on artifacts and monuments.

Answer

That is President Theodore Roosevelt. He was the youngest president of all time, at only 42 years old. He was the president who created the “Square Deal,” which ensured that there was fairness for all citizens when it came to banking, work, and economics.

Who is This Man?

This is the first of the historical figures that everyone should know. Hint: He was one of the presidents of the United States.

Answer

This is Abraham Lincoln. He was president during the Civil War. He saved the Union, and he’s credited with freeing the slaves.

Who Was The Inventor of the Lightning Rod?

He’s credited with making many of the things that we all use today.

Answer

It was Benjamin Franklin. He was also a scientist, diplomat, writer, printer, and more. Some of his inventions include the lightning rod, bifocals, Franklin stove, swim fins, and more.

Who is This Freedom Fighter?

This is one of the most famous faces in American history. Does he look familiar?

Answer

This is Martin Luther King Jr. He worked tirelessly to fight for racial equality. He was a reverend who wanted everyone to have the same rights. That’s one of the reasons why there’s a day named after him.

Who is This Famous Inventor?

This is one of the historical figures you should know. He helped to create one of the most important inventions of all time.

Answer

This is Thomas Edison. He is credited with creating the light bulbs. But that’s not it. He also invented the telegraph, phonograph, the movie camera, and the battery. It’s safe to say that we wouldn’t have much to do for fun without him.

Can You Guess This Other Famous Inventor?

You can thank this man for helping you to get to work every day.

Answer

That was a photo of Henry Ford. He is the inventor of the first modern car. He also created the assembly line so items could be built faster in factories.

Who is This Famous Author?

This author wrote many classic books, including one that you likely read in school as a youth.

Answer

That is Mark Twain. He wrote The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, among others. He was also a humorist who was very famous during his time.

Who is This Theme Park Creator?

This guy created one of the most famous amusement parks of all time.

Answer

That is Walt Disney. You have him to thank for long lines and expensive tickets to Disney Land and Disney World.

Who is This Genius?

This is one of the most important historical figures in American history. Who is he?

Answer

That is Albert Einstein. While he did a lot of work in Europe, many of his theories and inventions are more famous for how they helped America.

Who is This Baseball Player?

He was great at baseball, and he helped change the sport forever.

Answer

That is Jackie Robinson. He was the first Black baseball player, and he opened the door for many others.

Who is This Famous Woman?

She fought for equality.

Answer

That is Susan B. Anthony. She fought for equality for women and opened many doors for people who needed it back in her day.

Who is This Man?

He helped to make the computer that we know today.

Answer

That is Bill Gates. He helped to create the personal computer. He’s also one of the richest people in the world.

Who is This Musician?

This is one of the most famous historical figures who had many hits on the radio. And we’re not talking about Nixon.

Answer

That is Elvis Presley. He’s considered to be the King of Rock and Roll.

Who is This Other Famous Baseball Player?

Hint: He’s one of the best.

Answer

That is George Herman “Babe” Ruth. He is considered one of the best to ever play the game. He has numerous records.

Who is This President?

The man on the left was famous for some good and not-so-good behaviors.

Answer

That is Richard Nixon. He wasn’t the most beloved president but he did have his share of victories.

Who is This President?

We have him to thank for our freedom.

Answer

That is George Washington. He helped create the system of democracy that makes our country great.

Who is This Famous General?

He was critical during the Civil War.

Answer

That is Ulysses S. Grant. He was President Lincoln’s general during the Civil War for the Union.

Who is She?

She was one of the bravest historical figures.

Answer

That is Amelia Earhart. She was one of the greatest female pilots that was lost at sea.

Who is This Man?

He helped our country during times of crisis.

Answer

That is Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He helped us live through the Great Depression and during World War II.

Who is This Famous American?

He’s a very successful man who’s still living.

Answer

That is Warren Buffett. He’s a very famous businessman, investor, and philanthropist.

Do You Know This Past President?

Who is the man on the left? He was one of the most famous of them all.

Answer

This famous American is Ronald Regan. He did great things in our country and internationally.

CrossWave OmniFind – Bissell

Price: $229.99

With the Bissell CrossWave OmniFind, you can vacuum and mop at the same time. It has 25 minutes of cordless cleaning power, so there is no need to have it plugged in. It features FurFinder headlights so you can easily find dirt and pet hair. The Tangle-Free technology diminishes clogging and pet hair wrap. It also features two tanks to keep clean and dirty water separate. After you’re finished using it, with just a click of a button, the inside and brush rolls are cleaned with a self-cleaning cycle. 

Zing Canister Bagless Vacuum – Bissell

Price: $79.99

The Zing Canister Bagless vacuum is lightweight and weighs only 11 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around while you vacuum. It features an easy, empty dirt cup for hassle-free cleaning, and the cyclonic technology offers a strong, powerful, continuous suction along hard floors and carpets.

Mighty Mite Canister Vacuum – Eureka

Price: $82.45

The Mighty Mite Canister Vacuum makes cleaning super easy and weighs less than nine pounds. You can use it to vacuum tiles, wooden floors, rugs, and carpets. The robust brush rolls deep clean the carpets. Included is a set of tools that make cleaning upholstery, stairs, and hard-to-reach places easy. Furthermore, it comes with a one-year warranty.

J15 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum – Eureka

Price: $999.99

The J15 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum comes with an 8-in-1 multifunctional base that automatically refills the water, and hot water is used to mop and dry floors. It also has dock self-cleaning with battery changing, providing you with a hassle-free clean. With a 16,200 Pa suction, it deep cleans floors and removes 99% of debris. Furthermore, it also features anti-hair tangling technology and is cheaper than the Dyson robot vacuum.

APEX Duo Clean Vacuum – Shark

Price: $539.99

The APEX Duo Clean Upright Vacuum removes debris, pet hair, dirt, and dust quickly. It can collect 1.5 qt of grime or dirt in the bag. You will experience outstanding cleaning performance with its powerful 1,350W motor. Furthermore, it includes a pet multi-tool, dual rotating brush bars, and a deep-cleaning motorized pet tool.

Clean & Empty Lightweight Cordless Vacuum – Shark

Price: $249

What I like about this vacuum is that the auto-empty dock is 1.3L and locks in 99.97% of dirt and debris. That means no more emptying every day; you can empty it once per month. It’s lightweight and can be transformed into a handheld cleaner. Furthermore, it has 40 minutes of run time, and it auto-adjusts to floor types.

CordZero A925 – LG

Price: $398

The LG CordZero uses compressor technology, so there is no need to stop and empty it. Next, it has two rechargeable batteries for an impressive 120 minutes of cleaning time. The portable charging stand allows you to store and charge it anywhere. Furthermore, it has removable, washable filters and a cyclone system. And multi-surface cleaning makes it perfect for pet owners.

CordZero A949 – LG

Price: $748

The CordZero A949 has 265 AW suction power, allowing you to tackle any surface. The smart inverter motor has a 10-year limited warranty, and you get up to 200 minutes of performance. When docked, it automatically empties the dustbin. The dual floor max nozzle allows you to clean hard floors and carpets. Excitingly enough, it also converts to a spray mop so you can easily get rid of those stubborn stains. Included is the power pet nozzle so you can easily remove pet hair and more.

LVAC 200 – Levoit

Price: $149.99

This cordless stick vac has a tangle-resistant design and gets up to 50 minutes of power. It’s flexible and lightweight. Cleaning up pet hair is simple with the special 2-in-1 pet tool. The dusting brush can be used as a crevice tool for difficult-to-reach areas. Finally, the 5-stage filtration system catches 99.9% of dust.

Replacement Filter For LVAC 200 – Levoit

Price: $21.99

Original filters can be purchased. This set includes 2 post-motor and 4 pre-motor filters. This makes it affordable for you to replace and purchase.

WindTunnel – Hoover

Price: $129.99

WindTunnel technology offers better suction while multi-cyclonic filtration eliminates deep-down dirt and surface particles. It has versatile tools for hard-to-reach areas, corners, stairs, and upholstery. You will be happy with spotless floors from America’s most trusted brand.

ONEPWR WindTunnel – Hoover

Price: $222.75

With the multi-surface brush roll, you can easily switch between floor types. I like how quiet and powerful this vacuum is. Furthermore, it comes with special tools to convert it into a handheld vacuum for those hard-to-reach places. It features a ONEPWR battery system and can clean for up to 45 minutes.

22614 Pet Friendly – Kenmore

Price: $279.99

This lightweight vacuum has the best suction. I love the pet powermate feature that lifts dirt and stubborn pet hair quickly. It’s easy to clean and can be used on all types of floors. It has a 24’ retractable cord, and all accessories fit nicely into it.

600 Series – Kenmore

Price: $319.99

With a multipurpose w/swivel this vacuum cleans all surfaces. The 2-motor system has great suction power. It comes with a pop-n-go floor brush, 2-floor nozzles, and 3 additional attachments.

Multi-Surface Extended Reach+ – Dirt Devil

Price: $83.99

With the extended reach+, you can be sure your home will be spotless from floor to ceiling. It has a 4-level height adjustment and PowerPass technology and can clean both high- and low-pile carpets. It has a strong suction and a long cord and works wonderfully for a great price. 

BD57000V Cordless Stick – Dirt Devil

Finally, we have the lightweight, self-standing, cordless stick. Suitable for hard floors and carpets. It has a super powerful suction and LED headlights and can also be used as a hand vac. This vacuum is ideal for the elderly and those who struggle to lift heavy machines. As previously mentioned, it’s always best to shop around and find a vacuum that suits your needs. I loved my Dyson but these 8 vacuum brands are a better deal.

Chuckles

• Invented in 1921 by a marshmallow maker
• It was the first jelly candy
• Available in 5 flavors

Bit-o-Honey

• Invented in 1924 by the Schutter-Johnson Company
• First toffee candy to contain honey
• Cost a penny per piece

Candy Cigarettes

• Made in the late 1800s
• Designed to look like real cigarettes
• Made of sugar, chocolate, or bubblegum

Necco Wafers

• Invented in 1847 by Oliver Chase
• Chalky candy discs
• Originally called hub wafers

Good & Plenty

• Invented in 1893
• Licorice candy
• The oldest branded candy in American history

Sugar Daddy

• Invented in 1925
• Originally called a “papa sucker”
• The name was changed to Sugar Daddy in 1932

Atomic Fireball

• Invented in 1954 by Nello Ferrara
• 3,500 Scoville units
• Made using a hot pan method

Slo Poke

• Invented in 1926 by the Holloway Candy Co.
• Started as a sucker
• Evolved into a caramel bar

Jujubes

• First sold in 1890
• Named after the jujube fruit, a native Chinese fruit
• Discontinued by manufacturer and no longer available

Clark Bar

• Invented in 1917 by David L. Clark
• Peanut butter and taffy inside, chocolate coating outside
• The first “combination candy” to succeed with consumers

Pixy Stix

• Invented in 1942 in St. Louis, MO
• Was originally a powdered drink called Fruzola
• Succeeded by Lik-M-Aid, which evolved into Fun Dip

Tootsie Rolls

• A hand-rolled candy invented in 1907 by Leo Hirschfeld
• Named after Leo’s daughter Clara, who he affectionately called “Tootsie”
• Commercially marketed in 1908

Candy Buttons

• Invented in the 1930s
• Tiny dots of sugar on a paper sheet
• Made of sugar, flavoring and coloring

Slinky

• Invented in 1943 by Richard and Betty James
• Released in 1945
• Known for its ability to walk down stairs

Hula Hoop

• Marketed by Wham-O in 1958
• Patented in 1963
• Inspired by a wooden hoop children played in Australia

Barbie Dolls

• Invented by Ruth Handler
• Released in 1959 by Mattel
• Mattel was founded by Handler and her husband, Elliot

Mr. Potato Head

• Invented in 1949 by George Lerner
• Distributed in 1952 by Hasbro
• Claim to fame: the first toy ever advertised on TV

TONKA Trucks

• Invented in 1947 by Mound Metalcraft Company in Mound, Minnesota
• Mound is located near Lake Minnetonka, hence the name “Tonka”
• TONKA uses 119,000 pounds of yellow paint each year

Play-Doh

• Started as wallpaper cleaner
• Was first used as modeling clay in 1955
• Became known as Play-Doh in 1956

GI Joe

• Introduced in 1964
• Called an “action soldier” or “action figure” instead of a doll
• Originally introduced as an Army soldier; a Navy sailor, Air Force pilot, Marine, and NASA astronaut were later added

View-Master

• Originally called Sawyer’s View-Master
• Introduced at the World’s Fair in 1939-40
• First intended to be an adult education tool

Easy-Bake Oven

• Invented by Ronald Howes and introduced in 1963 by Kenner
• The heat source was two 100-watt incandescent bulbs
• Could bake actual edible food

Etch A Sketch

• Introduced at the 1959 International Toy Fair
• First called L’ecran Magique, or The Magic Screen
• Aluminum powder and tiny beads are held to the screen via static charges

Chatty Cathy

• Released in 1960
• Pull-string on her back made Cathy “talk”
• Started with 11 phrases, including “I love you”
• Second most popular doll in the 1960s after Barbie

Hot Wheels

• Debuted in 1968 at the International Toy Fair
• Inspired by California hot rods
• The original batch included 16 cars, called “The Sweet 16”

Cootie

• Invented in 1948 by William H. Schaper of Minnesota
• Was an educational game designed for ages 3-11
• Still a popular game for families

Writing Thank-You Notes

There was a time when if you received a gift, you wrote a thank you note — handwritten, mind you — and mailed it to the person you were thanking. In fact, there was an entire stationery industry that thrived on creating beautiful sheets of paper and carefully coordinated envelopes to ensure that not only were the words of thanks thoughtful but that they looked nice too.

Practicing Good Table Manners

Folks of a certain age likely recall being told to put your napkin in your lap, elbows off the table, chew with your mouth closed, and the proper way to set a table and use the utensils. And don’t forget to say grace.

Politely Answering the Phone

The irony of phones today? No one likes to talk on them. Boomers know that there was a time when you answered the phone with “Smith residence.”

Dressing Up For Air Travel

Traveling by airplane meant one thing was certain: you were to be dressed up for this exceptional travel experience. Women wore skirts or dresses, men wore suits and ties.

Respecting Your Elders

Whether you were interacting with your parents, your teachers or any other adult, children were always to address their elders at sir and ma’am as a show of respect.

Standing When an Adult Enters the Room

Whenever an adult entered the room, children were to stand up and acknowledge their arrival as a show of respect. Bonus points if you extended your hand for a handshake.

Tipping Your Hat

Speaking of toppers, men were also expected to tip their hat as a greeting or show of recognition for another person.

Opening the Car Door for Your Date or Significant Other

It was considered polite for a man to open his date’s or significant other’s car door for her and close it once she was neatly inside before he got into the driver’s side.

Question

What is the largest freshwater lake not only in the U.S. but the world by surface area?

Answer: Lake Superior

Lake Superior covers approximately 31,700 square miles.

Question

What is the only state in the U.S. that shares its border with only one other state?

Answer: Maine

The only state that Maine shares its border with is New Hampshire.

Question

Why is Great Salt Lake in Utah salty?

Answer: No Outlet

Utah’s Great Salt Lake is salty because there are no outlets. Its tributaries deliver small amounts of salt, and once that water reachest the lake, it evaporates, leaving the salt behind.

Question

Which river flows through more states than any other U.S. river, and how many states does it flow through?

Answer: The Mississippi River

The Mighty Mississippi flows through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana.

Question

What is the most densely populated state in the nation?

Answer: New Jersey

New Jersey covers 8,723 square miles and has a population of 9.6 million people. That makes it the most densely populated state in the nation, with 1,259 people per square mile.

Question

What is the Mason-Dixon Line?

Answer: A Land Dispute Resolution

While many Americans simplify the purpose of the Mason-Dixon Line as separating the north from the south, its original purpose was to resolve a border dispute between the British colonies of Pennsylvania and Maryland. It is named after the land surveyors, Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon and in pre-Civil War times, it was the line dividing slate states of the south and “free-soil” states of the north.

Question

How long is the Appalachian Trail, and where does it start and end?

Answer

The Appalachian Trail is 2,190 miles. It stretches from Katahdin, Maine to Springer Mountain, GA. FUN FACT: Tara Dower just beat the record for fastest time completing the thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. She did it in 40 days, 18 hours and 6 minutes. The average hiker takes 5-7 months to complete the journey.

Question

Where is the longest coastline in the United States?

Answer: Alaska

Alaska holds the title of the longest U.S. coastline. It spans 6,640 miles along the Pacific Ocean.

Question

What is the lowest point in the United States?

Answer: Death Valley

Death Valley is located at -279 feet below sea level, making it the lowest point in the United States. It also receives the least amount of rain.

Question

What is the highest point in the United States?

Answer: Denali

The highest point in the United States is Denali in Alaska, which measures 20,310 feet above sea level.

Question

What are the smallest and the largest states?

Answer: Rhode Island and Alaska

Rhode Island measures 1,545 square miles while Alaska clocks in at 663,268 square miles.

The Pros and Cons of Credit Cards

As a teenager in the public school system, it’s unlikely that your child will face questions about credit cards. Once they set foot on a college campus, they’re surrounded by offers that seem too good to be true. Many give in to these urges, only to find themselves with high-interest credit cards and mountains of debt down the road.

For the most part, kids should pay with whatever they want in cash. Borrowing for something you can’t afford can create bad habits and long-term credit and debt issues. As they become adults and a credit score becomes important, it’s time for them to learn about the pros and cons of credit.

Using credit like loans and credit cards can help to build credit. In most situations, bad credit is even better than good credit. As your child ages, they get better interest rates, higher credit limits, and better perks if they have a higher credit score. If they never borrow money, there’s no way to prove that they will pay it back. One way to manage this is to open a joint credit card with them and make sure it’s paid off every month.

The cons of credit cards are more serious. Most have high interest rates, so you can end up paying so much each month in fees that you can’t keep up. It’s easy to overspend with a credit card, and it can damage your credit if you borrow and don’t pay back. Overall, teenagers should stay away from any type of borrowing unless they’re working with a co-signer.

How to Budget

This is a concept that is hard for some adults to learn, and it will follow your child throughout their life. Some experts recommend that teens obey the 50-30-20 rule. This means that 50% of after-tax income goes to needs, 30% goes to things they want and 20% goes to savings.

Some parents start their kids young with allowance and chores, but we have some specific tips for teenagers. The five important elements of a budget are income, fixed expenses, debt, unplanned expenses, and savings. It’s important that your child knows their income, sets goals, and tracks their spending habits. If they have an unsteady income, it’s harder to manage but even more important. Encourage your child to set their own goals and track their habits, but to ask for help when it’s needed. Some kids spend money like it’s burning a hole in their pocket, whereas others refuse to let go of a penny. The trick is to find the middle ground.

All About Taxes

Taxes in the United States are unique. It’s hard to explain the process in a way that will translate for the future, but students should understand why they pay taxes, how to file them, and where they go. They should also know about state and federal taxes and why they are taken out of their paycheck.

Some teenagers don’t have to file taxes if they’re dependent on another taxpayer (like a parent). The exception to the rule is if they have unearned income over $1,100, or earned income more than $12,200.

Federal taxes go toward federal programs or reducing the debt. Some programs funded by taxes include health insurance plans like Medicaid and Medicare, Social Security, and defense. State taxes go toward education, health insurance, higher education, public assistance, corrections, and transportation. Explain to your students how they pay into these programs and benefit from them.

Establish an Emergency Fund

Kids often live paycheck to paycheck (and adults do, too). This works until there is any type of emergency that requires extra funds. It takes patience to establish an emergency fund because you can’t see the future. All your kids see is money that they could spend, but they’ll be happy they saved when they blow out a tire or crack their phone screen.

Some experts suggest that kids have an emergency fund that equals three months of wages. Even if they can’t reach this number, working toward it teaches good habits. If that number seems overwhelming, start them small or save a percentage of their income each month.

There are many reasons an emergency fund is essential. The most common for kids are tickets, accidents, increased insurance, or unemployment. Teenagers don’t often make enough to sustain themselves if they lose a job, so this is the time they’ll really feel it if they have an emergency and no money to cover it. In some families, kids help with their own expenses or with housing costs. If that’s your situation, help your kids understand what unexpected housing emergencies look like, and how they can quickly affect your budget.

Identifying Needs vs. Wants

This is an important skill to learn for every person. Do you really NEED that new iPhone, or do you just WANT it? These are important questions to ask your teen when they go to spend their hard-earned money. A need is something they can’t do without, like food or gas. A want is something they buy for enjoyment, like a video game.

There’s nothing wrong with buying things you want, but when there’s a choice to be made, students have to understand that needs must come before wants. This is a great concept that parents can model as they raise their kids because it’s an idea that most adults struggle with also.

The Non-Tangible Benefits of Working

There’s more to having a job than money. While a job is work, that doesn’t mean they have to be miserable the entire time they’re working. Help them identify and find a job they love. Consider retail, food service, and janitorial work as some options for teenagers.

A job is an ideal spot for a child to gain confidence. They talk to strangers and learn things they don’t learn at home. Many also realize how nice it is to have extra money on hand and commit harder to their job. While there’s so much emphasis on budgeting, credit scores, and income, don’t forget that a job can provide social interaction and confidence to teenagers.

Their Spending vs. Their Parent’s Spending

In today’s world, many teenagers graduate and expect to have the same things their parents have. They don’t realize the decades of effort that went into building your career and your home, and may find themselves in debt if they attempt to keep up with those around them. It’s important that your kids understand that just because you have some things, they don’t have the means for them yet.

Many kids buy a home that’s too large or take trips they can’t afford because that’s what they’re used to, but the reality is that mom and dad’s money looks much different than theirs. This is also a good time to talk about careers with them because their spending ability in the future relies heavily on the industry they choose. Remind your kids that it’s okay to start slow and build up. They can have the older phone or thrift their clothes until they have a good foundation of savings, emergency funds, and income.

When Was the First Battle of the War?

The Civil War’s first battle was the Battle of Fort Sumter. It started on April 12, 1861, and ended the next day. It was the official start of the war as Union forces fired on Confederate forces, and occurred in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. There were no casualties during this bombardment, but the Union did surrender Fort Sumter to the Confederacy.

When Were All Slaves Freed?

It’s a common misconception that once President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, all slaves were automatically freed, but the truth is much more complicated. Enslaved people were free by declaration on December 6, 1865, and the proclamation only freed those in Confederate states, not Union-held slave states or states the Union already controlled.

After the proclamation on January 1, 1863, Union General Gordon Granger set out on horseback to inform those in all Confederate states. Because travel was slow back then, word didn’t reach Galveston, Texas, until June 19, 1865. Once he arrived, he issued General Order No. 3 to end slavery in Texas. This day is now celebrated as Juneteenth and is a federal holiday.

Simply freeing the enslaved people didn’t fix the problem. Many had no land, no money, and little education. The process of providing equal rights to all people continues today.

Why Did the Confederacy Surrender?

The Confederacy surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant in Virginia on April 9, 1865. General Robert E. Lee completed the process at Appomattox Court House after realizing their efforts were futile. While this was the beginning of the end, it took several weeks for all Confederacy forces to surrender.

There were many reasons why the Confederacy surrendered. One was the Union’s military success, like those at the Battle of Gettysburg, the March to the Sea that decimated Southern infrastructure, and the siege of Petersburg. The second reason was the blockade of Southern ports by the Union’s blockade which crippled the economy and led to shortages of weapons, food, and ammunition.

The population became tired of war when the Confederate economy began to crumble because of its heavy reliance on agriculture and slavery. The Confederate army had little foreign support from places like France and Britain. These forces remained neutral during the war.

The Union army had a larger industrial base and a larger population of soldiers. This made it easy for them to prepare for a long-term strategy, while the Confederacy was losing forces in devastating numbers.

Who Were the Powerful Leaders of the Confederacy?

The army’s primary political leader, Jefferson Davis, was the President of the Confederate States of America during the war. Alexander H. Stephens was his vice president, although they clashed often.

General Robert E. Lee was the army’s most celebrated leader and General of the Army of Northern Virginia. He was also the one who surrendered to the Union army at the end of the war. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson worked under General Lee and is most famous for his role in the First Battle of Bull Run. He was killed in 1863, and this devastated the Confederate army’s morale.

Other important military leaders include J.E.B. Stuart, James Longstreet, Joseph E. Johnston, P.G.T. Beauregard, Juda P. Benjamin, and Nathan Bedford Forrest.

Who Were the Major Leaders of the Union?

Ulysses S. Grant served as the General-in-Chief of the Union Army for one year until it ended and was one of the Union’s most successful generals. Abraham Lincoln was the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Union army, while Edwin Stanton served as the Secretary of War.

William Sharman was a key subordinate of General Grant and is famous for the war tactics employed during the March to the Sea. Other important figures include Commander of the Army of the Potomac George Meade, George H. Thomas, Winfield Scott, Joseph Hooker, and Ambrose Burnside.

What Was the Bloodiest Battle of the War?

The Battle of Gettysburg was fought around Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, from July 1 to July 3, 1863. The Confederacy suffered more than 51,000 casualties including missing, captured, wounded, or killed soldiers. The Union suffered approximately 23,000 casualties.

This was a turning point in the war, as General Lee’s invasion of the North was halted by the Union’s victory. This weakened the Confederacy’s belief that they could sustain the war and boosted Union morale.

While this was the deadliest battle of the war, the bloodiest day was September 17, 1862, at the Battle of Antietam. In one single day, more than 22,000 soldiers were wounded, killed or missing.

What was the Dred Scott Decision?

In 1857, the United States Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling known as the Dred Scott Decision. The decision stated that Congress should not prohibit slavery in the territories, that slaves were property, and that African Americans were not citizens. Dred Scott was a Missouri slave who was taken by his owner to free territories and sued for his freedom.

This decision polarized the nations and created a deep division between the South and the North. It halted the efforts of many to stop slavery. It contributed to the rise of the Republican Party and greatly influenced the election of 1860 when Abraham Lincoln was elected. The Dred Scott Decision was a legal precedent until the 13th and 14th Amendments were ratified. The 13th Amendment abolished slavery and the 14th amendment gave African Americans citizenship.

What Role Did African Americans Play in the Conflict?

African Americans contributed greatly to both sides of the war. Their involvement played an integral part in the struggle for equality and freedom. They were a key labor force in the south and many escaped to Union lines where they were accepted as property of the enemy.

African Americans joined the Union army after the Emancipation Proclamation. By the end of the war in 1865, almost 180,000 African American men had enlisted in the army. They served in artillery, cavalry, and infantry, and as nurses, laborers, and cooks.

Leaders like Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, and Fredrick Douglass worked during the war to free slaves and fight for equal rights for all. The presence of these leaders along with the African American soldiers did much to boost morale and contribute to the military.

African American women served as spies, nurses, and home front support. They organized clothing and food drives, supported their families, and cared for the wounded and sick soldiers. In summary, the contributions of African Americans in the war greatly helped with the abolition of slavery and the groundwork for the Civil Rights movement.

When was the first Thanksgiving?

This celebration feast lasted for three days, and together the English and Wampanoag ate corn, deer, carrots, green beans, spinach, and seafood. Unlike today, our Thanksgiving feast is quite different, consisting of turkey and lovely potato dishes.

Answer

Autumn 1621: 52 English people and approximately 90 Wampanoag joined together in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to celebrate a successful harvest.

What Thanksgiving vegetable grew in space?

A Thanksgiving meal isn’t complete without a delicious veggie side dish. What do you think it was tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, or onions?

Answer

Potatoes: The seeds were put inside the ISS’ computer-controlled growing chambers. These chambers have humidity and high-efficiency temperature controls with unique lighting and automation technology.

Why were there only 52 pilgrims at the first Thanksgiving?

The Mayflower set sail in September 1620 and traveled for 66 days until it finally arrived at Cape Cod on November 11, 1620.

Answer

The Mayflower was a cargo ship that carried 102 men, women, and children to the New World. They encountered harsh weather conditions, shelter, and food. Sadly, half of the passengers died due to illnesses such as fever, coughs, and other contagious diseases within the first winter. There were over 25 children and teenagers, four women, and 22 men who survived.

What date is Thanksgiving in the United States?

Unlike Christmas, which is celebrated on December 25^th regardless of which day of the week, it is not like that for Thanksgiving. Under the new constitution on October 3, 1789, President George Washington designated November 26 as a day of public prayer and thanksgiving. Future Thanksgiving proclamation dates and months varied, celebrating in February 1797 and April 1815.

Answer

It wasn’t until Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation on October 3, 1863, declared that Thanksgiving should be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.

Who thought of turkey for Thanksgiving dinner?

It was not until the mid-19th century that turkey became widely associated with this November holiday.

Answer

Sarah Josepha Hale known as the “Mother of Thanksgiving,” was an activist, American writer, and editor for a magazine in the period before the Civil War. Her novel, A Tale of New England, published in 1827, had a whole chapter devoted to a New England Thanksgiving meal with a delicious roast turkey at the head of the table. 

Who pardoned the turkey?

Harry Truman was first credited for pardoning the turkey; however, that’s not true. He received a turkey and had it for dinner. John F. Kennedy let his turkey go, and Richard Nixon sent his turkey to a zoo.

Answer

In 1989, George H.W. Bush formalized the pardoning tradition.

When did Thanksgiving TV dinners start?

TV dinners are convenient for those who don’t want to cook or don’t know how to cook.

Answer

1954: Swanson’s company had an extra 26 tons of frozen turkey. An assiduous worker suggested cooking them and repacking them with extra vegetables.

Can turkeys fly?

Ever wondered if turkeys can fly? Take a guess!

Answer

Yes: Wild turkeys can reach speeds of up to 55 mph over short distances. At dusk, they fly into trees to roost.

How many turkeys are eaten on Thanksgiving day?

Some people are not a fan of turkey and would prefer to eat a different source of protein on Thanksgiving.

Answer

46 million: However, 88 percent of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving. That’s a lot of turkey.

Which American founding father is credited as calling turkeys “a bird of courage’?

Take a guess and test your knowledge.

• Thomas Jefferson
• George Washington
• Benjamin Franklin
• Patrick Henry

Answer

Benjamin Franklin: In his famous letter, he complained that the eagle’s popularity was misguided and the turkey was a more honorable bird and was native to America.

Who hosted the first Thanksgiving?

It is believed that the first Thanksgiving took place in 1621.

Answer

William Bradford: He was the leader of the Pilgrims and organized the three-day feast.

Did the Pilgrims refer to themselves as Pilgrims?

Pilgrims are known as people who travel to sacred places for religious reasons.

Answer

No: They called themselves “Separatists.” Known as a group of people who separated themselves from a larger group.

How long was the Mayflower’s voyage from England to America?

The Pilgrims left in September 1620 and arrived in November 1620. How many days was the journey?

Answer

66 days: The pilgrims were thrilled to put their feet on solid land.

What does football have to do with Thanksgiving?

Since 1920, the National Football League (NFL) has had scheduled games every Thanksgiving.

 Answer

It started as a way to encourage sports enthusiasts to watch live games. This event has always been exciting and fun and brings family and friends together.

Which two NFL teams have played a game on Thanksgiving day since 1966?

Two popular teams have always played; can you guess who they are?

• San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Raiders
• Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys
• Indiana Colts and Denver Broncos
• Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs

Answer

Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys: In 1975 and 1977, the NFL allowed the St. Louis Cardinals to host the game to help boost the team’s popularity.

Which state raises the most turkeys?

In this state, turkey farming is a family tradition, with over 450 families rearing turkeys.

Answer

Minnesota: There are approximately 44 million turkeys reared around this state.

How many miles long is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade route?

The parade first took place in 1924, but how long is the route?

• 1.8 miles
• 2 miles
• 4.5 miles
• 2.5 miles

Answer

2.5 miles: The parade lasts for 3 hours. It begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon Eastern Standard Time outside Macy’s Herald Square. Furthermore, it’s free to attend so you and the family can enjoy the morning out.

What holiday takes place the day after Thanksgiving?

This national holiday is celebrated the day after Thanksgiving. Do you know what it’s called and why it takes place? Are you ready to answer these next simple Thanksgiving history questions?

Answer

Black Friday: This day is considered the kick-off day for Christmas shopping. Many retailers are open in the early hours of the morning and offer many deals at discounted prices. Cost-conscious buyers line up at the doors to be the first to grab those specials.

In which city is Macy’s parade held?

More than 3.5 million people attend the parade live each year, and roughly 44 million watch it on TV each year.

Answer

New York City: Moreover, families wake up bright and early to hit the streets and be close to the front line to be blown away by the beautiful outfits and floats passing through the street.

What was featured in the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade?

Finally, we have our last question.

Answer

Puppets, Santa floats, clowns, and live animals: These were some of the first features from the Central Park Zoo. I hope you enjoyed this article. The average American doesn’t know the answers to these simple Thanksgiving history questions. Enjoy your Thanksgiving celebrations and bring out the trivia. Happy Thanksgiving!!

Flag #1

Which country is it?

Israel

This is one of the national flags that’s been in the news a lot over the last couple of years. Did you recognize it?

Flag #2

Which country is it?

Philippines

The Philippines was once a part of the United States. Now they’re their own country that’s famous for tropical islands, tasty cuisine, and more.

Flag #3

Which country is it?

Papua New Guinea

This is one of the hardest national flags to recognize. Papua New Guinea is famous for being home to countless unknown species of plants and animals.

Flag #4

Which country is it?

Nepal

Nepal is a great nation. It’s home to Mount Everest and other impressive mountains. It’s also the home to cool temples.

Flag #5

Which country is it?

Mongolia

This is one of the national flags most don’t recognize. Most haven’t been here either. Mongolia is known for Genghis Khan, the Gobi Desert, and countless wild horses.

Flag #6

Which country is it?

Lebanon

Lebanon is one of the most densely populated countries in the Mediterranean. It’s also home to some of the smartest people in the world.

Flag #7

Which country is it?

Kenya

Kenya is full of amazing wildlife and many vast natural parks. Imagine any place where you can see giraffes running wild!

Flag #8

Which country is it?

Afghanistan

Afghanistan has one of the national flags that most don’t recognize. This area is one of the richest in the world when it comes to natural resources like iron and copper.

Flag #9

Which country is it?

Fiji

Go to Fiji for some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s even better if you enjoy diving, swimming, and snorkeling.

Flag #10

Which country is it?

Haiti

This is the flag of Haiti. This is a gorgeous nation in the Caribbean, and it’s covered with massive mountains. It is also home to tasty Haitian cuisine.

Flag #11

Which country is it?

India

India is one of the most heavily populated countries in the world, but many people don’t recognize the flag. The country is known for its culture full of dance, music, theater, and more.

Flag #12

Which country is it?

Grenada

Many people don’t know that Grenada is a spice isle because of its abundance of spices, from cinnamon to mace and clove.

Flag #13

Which country is it?

Croatia

Croatia is a lovely country known for its stunning architecture, historic cities, and the famous Diocletian Palace.

Flag #14

Which country is it?

Cambodia

Go to Cambodia for some of the most delicious food on the planet. Plan a trip and add the stunning capital city of Phnom Penh to your list.

Flag #15

Which country is it?

Bhutan

If you’ve never heard of Bhutan, you should learn more. It’s a lovely country in South Asia that’s known for its friendly people. In fact, it’s rated one of the happiest places on earth.

Flag #16

Which country is it?

Belize

Belize is a natural paradise. Half of the country is covered with rainforests that are home to many exotic species. There’s also an incredible barrier reef.

Flag #17

Which country is it?

Kiribati

Most people don’t recognize this flag because it’s one of the least developed countries in the world. Still, it’s a nice place with great beaches and good people.

Flag #18

Which country is it?

Greenland

Greenland has one of the national flags that most people don’t recognize. As you may have learned as a child, Greenland is actually pretty cold, and it’s home to glaciers.

Flag #19

Which country is it?

Iceland

Iceland is a gorgeous country where you can go to see the Northern Lights, volcanoes, waterfalls, and more.

Flag #20

Which country is it?

Egypt

Finally, this is one of the great national flags. The people are also wonderful, and so are the names of the boys and girls. Try to visit if you ever get the chance.

Penny Bubblegum Stand

One cent could get you a massive gumball or cheap toy to enjoy.

Riding Bikes

It didn’t matter if you were a city kid or a country kid, two wheels and daylight meant hours of freedom.

Earth Day Cleanup

These 1970s New York City kids were focused on their Earth Day clean-up efforts.

Double Dutch Demo

These kids were putting on quite the Double Dutch performance for an audience of onlookers.

Stickball in the City

You could always count on a fun game of stick ball with your friends in this guy’s New York neighborhood.

Library Time

This class of kids gets lost in their books during library time.

Watts Christmas Parade

These children proudly marched in the Watts Christmas Parade in California.

Beverly Hills Cop

Here, a Beverly Hills policeman shares some safety pointers with a captive audience.

Cards by Candlelight

During a New York City blackout, this family makes the most by playing a game of cards by candlelight.

Shooting Hoops

A fun game of pick-up was always in order for these city kids.

London Bridge

A rousing game of “London Bridge” kept these little ladies entertained in their classroom.

Taking It to the Streets

A group of young students are all bundled up for a school outing with their teachers.

Time to Shop

These Michigan kiddos look like their heading to the grocery store — and having a good time too!

Trike Ride

These little girls take a ride around their preschool gymnasium.

Let’s Climb!

Here, some children climb on Alice in Wonderland and some mushrooms in New York City’s Central Park.

Tiny Catholics

These girls are dressed in their Sunday best as they head to their Catholic church.

Teacher Knows Best

These little learners enjoy some circle time in a well-decorated classroom.

Young Festival-Goers

Here, two of the younger attendees of the Vortex I Biodegradable Festival of Life in Oregon enjoy a romp through the grass.

Skateboarding is Life

Here, a young skateboarder enjoys the thrill of the ride.

Let’s Get Wet

The neighborhood kids gather for a little reprieve from the summer heat in New York.

Field Trip

Here, some young students enjoy an off-campus trip.

Clothing & Hygiene

If you’ve ever had a teenager, you know that fight that comes with getting them to brush their teeth twice a day, or to shower regularly. They often think that slipping on a new shirt and combing their hair is enough for the day, but as hard as it is, it’s our job as parents to teach them better.

Set a schedule with them for how often they will bathe or shower, and teach them about basic things like deodorant and dandruff. Make sure you leave the door open so they can communicate with you if they have questions. Teach them how to plan their outfits for the weather and how to do laundry on their own when they’re ready. Help them understand how important washing their face is. Oh, and one last one — teach them to clip their nails regularly.

It’s difficult, but if your child tries to walk out the door and their smell indicates they need a shower, it’s your job to tell them before they leave. If they have food in their teeth and it’s obvious they haven’t brushed, you need to let them know. Approach it cautiously and come up with a solution, because no kid wants to hear they need a shower right before they enter school, where they’ll worry about it all day.

Time Management

This one’s hard because even adults struggle with time management, and your kids are likely to mimic your habits. Good time management reduces stress and anxiety and makes them more productive. It helps them in every activity they participate in and affects more than academics and work.

Every child is different, so your teaching methods need to adjust. They’ll also manage time differently and prefer unique ways to be organized. Some may prefer a checklist while others shouldn’t be over-scheduled. Keep the dialogue open between your child as they age to help them determine the best way to manage their time. This is especially important when they become teenagers, as they are about to head out on their own.

Handling Failure

While there are messages everywhere that you can become anything you want if you work hard enough, the reality is that most kids are just people who will face achievements and failures throughout their lives. How they deal with those things is a huge part of their character. Some kids become withdrawn and angry when they’re disappointed, while others may turn to hyper-achievement.

Junior high and high school are places where it’s important to learn to deal with failure. They may not make every sports team they try out for, may not get every job they apply for, and may be rejected by friends at times. The key to this is teaching them how their “failures” teach them things and give them opportunities to grow. Help them understand that failure doesn’t define them. As they move on and recover from certain failures, remind them how they felt when it happened and how they came out of it. This will help them in the future as they face similar problems, and give them hope that they will recover one day.

Financial Literacy

There comes a time when credit scores and bank accounts are important to teenagers. It’s important that they learn how to earn money, how to budget it, and how to responsibly spend it. While schools make an effort to teach financial literacy to students, the real responsibility lies with parents. Paying rent and tuition is difficult, and shouldn’t be the first financial situation your kids face.

Start early with basic financial concepts. Teach budgeting and set savings goals with them. Use real-life examples when you’re grocery shopping or buying new furniture. When they’re young, give them an allowance with clear directives and boundaries. Encourage them to work when they can so they can know the sense of achievement that comes with earning their own money. Push them to come up with creative ways to earn money like selling used clothing on reseller sites, babysitting, or mowing lawns. And while it can be difficult, sometimes they need to struggle to remember how important a job is and how much they enjoy having their own money to spend.

Interpersonal Communication

Communication styles are crucial to relationships. If your child learns the wrong way to communicate, it can affect their entire life. Teaching your kids how to communicate early means they avoid bad habits and misunderstandings that affect school, friendships, and the workplace.

Each child’s communication style is different, but there are basic facets of healthy communication you can teach them. Teach them to make eye contact when appropriate. Discuss emotions and how to respond to them. Teach them the difference between sympathy and empathy, and how to handle those feelings. Be a good role model for your kids with your own communication and mimic the behavior you teach them. At the same time, understand their limitations based on age, personality, and learning ability. Teach them how to actively listen and be invested in what others are saying.

If your child has a disability, tailor your lessons to their ability. Eye contact is difficult for some kids while others can’t put emotion into words. Be patient with them as they learn the best ways to communicate.

Critical Thinking

The new generation of kids has access to more information than they know what to do with. This can make it difficult to sort through the noise and figure out what’s true and what’s not. As media engages and people become more polarized, it’s more important than ever to understand how to think critically and decide for themselves what is real.

Teach your children what sources are reliable and which are not. Ask them open-ended questions and have a conversation with them about the answers and how they came to them. Open up difficult topics and be willing to take the time to talk to them. Encourage them to read from different sources and learn how to debate healthily. When they’re asked to debate, they have to deep dive into an issue and learn more about it.

Encourage creativity and new ways of thinking. Look for diverse perspectives where you can find them and teach your kids why they’re valuable. When they have problems or questions, don’t intervene immediately, but give them time to find answers and solutions on their own, and then discuss that with them.

When to Change the Sheets and More

There are many basic life skills and housekeeping tasks kids don’t automatically know. How to make basic meals, how often to change their bedding, how often to vacuum, how to sort laundry piles, and when to clean a bathroom, are some pretty simple examples. Before your kids leave the house, make sure they understand the intricate tasks that make a household run.

The best way to do this is to engage your kids in everyday activities and tasks from the time they’re young. If you didn’t start young, don’t worry. It’s never too late to teach a kid how to scrub a toilet or make spaghetti. Make an intentional effort to involve them and it’s often a positive learning experience for both of you.

Q. How big is the sun?

When it comes to basic space questions, this is a common one. We all know that the sun is so huge in the grand scheme of things. But how big exactly?

A. The radius of the sun is 432,450 miles.

To put this size in perspective, we could take 109 earths and line them across the face of the sun. That is how big the sun is in diameter. The sun also makes up 99% of our solar system’s mass. 

Q. How long is a day on Mercury? 

We know that a day on Earth is 24 hours, but a day on Earth is not the same as a day on other planets.

A. 59 Earth days

A day on Mercury is around 59 Earth days. This is because the planet itself spins very slowly. In fact, the length of one day on Mercury is 1,408 hours.

Q. How are black holes created? 

There is just something very intriguing about a black hole. They can seem both terrifying and interesting. But how exactly do black holes form in space?

A. Black holes are created in a couple of ways. 

The first way a black hole is formed is when massive stars explode and die.

Another way that black holes are formed is when gas collapses.

Q. Can you hear anything in space?

Sometimes, it’s fun to imagine how our lives or actions would be different if we were to take a trip into space. We know we have to wear those suits, but could we participate in normal everyday activities?

A. No, you cannot hear anything in space. 

The answer to this question may surprise you but no we cannot hear anything in space. The reason for it is because there’s no air in space and because of this sound waves don’t exist in space.

Q. What is the hottest planet in our solar system? 

Have you ever thought about what the hottest planet in our solar system is?

A. Venus 

Venus has a very thick atmosphere full of many gases. The greenhouse effect that it has is very close to the one on Earth, making it the hottest planet in our solar system at approximately 465°C.

Q. How much does a Nasa space suit cost? 

NASA space suits do a terrific job of protecting our astronauts as they travel into space. Since they have to function in several different ways, how much do they cost?

A. Neil Armstrong’s suit cost $100,000 at the time. 

Space suits range in price. The Apollo 11 Neil Armstrong space suit was around $100,000 when he wore it. That makes it closer to $670,000 in today’s economy.

Q. How long is a day on Venus? 

Another common basic space question, Venus is the second planet to the sun, but its orbit is much slower than the Earth. So, how long does it take to complete one day on Venus?

A. 243 Earth days. 

A day on Venus takes about 243 Earth days. Another fun fact is that Venus rotates in the opposite direction than Earth.

Q. Does water exist in space? 

We know that there are so many different objects up in space, but have you ever asked if there is water in space?

A. Yes! 

There are several different water systems or oceans that have been found in space. Many of these oceans are on other planets’ moons.

Q. What happens if you don’t wear a space suit?

We all know the importance of a space suit in space, but what exactly would happen if you did not wear one? 

A. You would die almost immediately. 

Not having a space suit is a very reckless idea. Since there’s no air in space, you would die from a lack of oxygen. There’s also no air pressure, which means that your fluids will boil and freeze. 

Q. How many miles per hour does the Earth travel around the sun? 

We know that the Earth traveling around the sun is what gives us our year, which is 365 days roughly. But how fast is it moving?

A. 67,000 mph

The orbit of the Earth around the sun is around 67,000 mph. Even though it’s very fast, we don’t feel it moving because it’s always at the same speed.

Q. How far is the Earth from the sun?

To put the size of the universe in perspective, let’s look at how far away the Earth is from the sun. 

A. 149,597,870,700 AU meters or 92.103 million miles.

But we know that the Earth and the sun do not stay the same distance constantly. Therefore, this is just a rough estimate.

Q.  Why does Uranus spin sideways? 

Most of the planets spin on their axis almost the same way. In a clockwise position, like there is an invisible pole sticking from north to south right through the middle. But there are a few exceptions.

A. They believe Uranus had a collision. 

Knowing what we know about the rotation of planets, there’s the question of why Uranus is spinning on its side in the world.

There is a theory that Uranus had a collision at some point during its life with an object close to the size of Earth. This collision knocked it off its axis and destabilized it.

Q. What planets have spacecraft been to? 

What planets in our solar system have we seen with space crafts? 

A. All of them.

We have sent space crafts to explore every planet in our solar system. 

Q.  What are the ring systems on some planets?

Every planet looks different. But what exactly are those rings? 

A. Several types of particles.

These ring systems are made up of several types of particles. These particles include dust, ice, dust, and moon particles. 

Q.  How many planets have ring systems? 

How many of our planets have these ring systems?

A. Four 

These planets are Neptune, Saturn, Uranus, and Jupiter. 

Q. What is a Van Allen Belt? 

Van Allen Belts may seem like a foreign word and concept. What exactly are they? 

A. High energy radiation particles trapped in a magnetic field.

These can be dangerous and even deadly. However, astronauts can pass through very quickly and be okay. 

Q.  How many stars are in the universe? 

Looking up into the night sky is magical, especially when thousands of stars radiate in the sky. How many exactly are up there?

A. Approximately 200 billion trillion stars.

There’s no way to know for sure, but scientists believe there to be around 200 billion trillion stars. 

Q. Will the Apollo astronaut’s footprints ever go away? 

Have you ever wondered if evidence of man on the moon will ever disappear?

A. Maybe. But not for at least a million years.

Since there is no wind or rain on the moon, the footprints of our moon expedition will stay put for a very long time — at least during our lifetimes. 

Q.  Why does Jupiter have a red spot? 

Jupiter has a dark, swirling red spot. What exactly is it? 

A. A storm

Jupiter has a very high-pressure storm in its atmosphere. This storm is easy to spot, though it has been shrinking for some time. 

Q.  Who was the first person to go to outer space? 

We know Neil Armstrong walked on the moon. But who was the first person in space?

A. Yuri Gagarin

Gagarin traveled to space for the very first time on April 12, 1961. How terrified would you be?

One Last Note

How did you do on these basic space questions? Did you learn something new? Now, test your knowledge of world history.