Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) This Parisian tourist destination opened on this date in 1889. What was it?

2) In 1962, Herb Alpert took a $200 demo, dubbed bullfight crowd noises over it, and renamed the tune, "The Lonely Bull." What was the song's original title?

Answers:

1) The Eiffel Tower.

2) "Twinkle Star."

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1867, Secretary of State William H. Seward made a purchase for $7.2 million. That purchase was referred to as "Seward's Folly." What did he buy?

2) The TV game show, Jeopardy debuted this date in 1964. Who was the original host?

3) Dr. Crawford Long became the first surgeon to use this substance on this date in 1842. What was it?

4) Amerigo Vespucci was the man from whom our country got its name. What was his profession?

Answers:

1) Seward purchased Alaska from Russia for .02 per acre.

2) Art Fleming

3) He was the first to use a general anesthetic in order to perform surgery, specifically, ether.

4) Vespucci was a cartographer.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What was the original color of Coca Cola?

2) On this date in 1961 the 23rd amendment to the Constitution was ratified. What did it provide?

3) This first lady's maiden name was Claudia Alta Taylor. Who was she?

4) In a speech at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, Winston Churchill coined a phrase that was often used during the Cold War. What was it?

Answers:

1) Green

2) Residents of Washington, D.C. were given the right to vote in presidential elections.

3) LadyBird Johnson, wife of Lyndon Baines Johnson.

4) Churchill first used the term "Iron Curtain" to describe the Soviet Union and Communism in general.

Alan Rock's Trivia, March 19, 2010

Q: This actress, born March 19, 1936, appeared in Dr. No, What's New Pussycat, and Clash of the Titans. Her name?
A: Ursula Andress.

Q: On March 19, 1931, in an effort to ease the hard times of the Great Depression, what did the Nevada legislature do?
A: They voted to legalize gambling.

Q: What mythical beast had a single horn in the center of its forehead?
A: The unicorn.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) This date in 1850 was the first day these were issued.

2) Howard Hughes bought a movie studio on this date in 1954. Which one was it?

3) What is the term for an affirmative form of a statement?

Answers:

1) American Express Travelers Cheques

2) Hughes purchased RKO Pictures for $23,000,000.

3) An oath.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What is the population of Ireland according to the 2006 census?

2) Who starred in the first movie western?

Answers:

1) Ireland's population in 2006 was just under 6 million.

2) Buffalo Bill Cody - Thomas Edison operated the camera.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Actor Eric Estrada was born this date in 1949. What character did he play on CHiPS?

2) Folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary had a number of top ten hits, but only one made #1. What was it?

3) When she set sail to meet Marc Antony, Cleopatra added a little special something. What was it?

4) Freedom's Journal was first published on this date in 1827. What was special about it?

Answers:

1) Francis "Ponch" Poncherello

2) "Leavin' On a Jet Plane." "Puff, the Magic Dragon" and "Blowin' in the Wind" both peaked at #2.

3) Cleopatra had the ship's sails sprinkled with her perfume.

4) Freedom's Journal was the first black newspaper in the U.S.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which major league team had two players to hit more than 50 home runs in the same season?

2) On this date in 1869 this team became the first all professional baseball team. Who were they?

3) Who was the the first president to govern all 50 states?


Answers:

1) The New York Yankees in the 1961 season. Roger Maris hit 61 home runs and Mickey Mantle hit 54.

2) The Cincinnati Red Stockings

3) Dwight Eisenhower was president at the time Hawaii and Alaska were designated as states.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Today is Girl Scout Day. Juliette Gordon Low founded the organization on this day in 1912; the group's first name was what?

2) As recently as when was it said "there is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home."

Answers:

1) Girl Guides

2) "There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home” was said by Ken Olson, President, Chairman and Founder of Digital Equipment Co. in 1977.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) The first man to drive a car faster than 300 mph was born this date in 1885. Who was he?

2) She was known as the first lady of song. Who was she?

3) In computer-speak, what does DHTML mean?

Answers:

Answers:

1) Sir Malcolm Campbell

2) Ella Fitzgerald

3) Dynamic HyperText Markup Language

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Actress Sharon Stone was born this date in 1958. In 1995 she won a Golden Globe for Best Actress for her role in which movie?

2) "Mr. Watson, come here. I need you." Who said that?

3) For what did Harry Houdini receive a patent?

Answers:

1) Casino

2) Alexander Graham Bell uttered these words during the first successful telephone transmission.

3) A diving suit in 1921.

Alan Rock's Trivia! (for Tues., Mar. 9)

Questions:

1) If you are an eriff, what are you and how old are you?

2) On this date in 1969, CBS canceled The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. The network felt that while the show garnered high ratings, its controversial material made it more trouble than it was worth. What was the show that replaced it?

3) Which is the largest, most comprehensive art museum in the world?

4) Which president was re-elected by a landslide of both electoral and popular votes?

Answers:

1) You are a canary that's two years old.

2) Hee Haw

3) New York Metropolitan Museum of Art (founded 1870).

4) Ronald Reagan's re-election won 525 electoral votes and carried 49 states.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Only two presidents won elections as a result of action on the part of the House of Representatives. Who were they?

2) This movie star's real name was Norma Jean Mortenson. Who was she?

3) What is broadcast history's first spinoff show?

Answers:

1) Thomas Jefferson and John Quincy Adams

2) Marilyn Monroe (You may recall Elton John's "Goodbye, Norma Jean." It was a tribute to Marilyn; later he modified the lyrics and title to honor Princess Diana.)

3) The Great Gildersleeve was a spinoff of Fibber McGee and Molly.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this day in 1993, an athlete was banned for life from competition by the International Amateur Athletics Federation. Who was it?

2) Who was the first president to host a radio talk show?

3) Name the Great Lakes.

4) The USS Constitution was launched out of Boston Harbor in 1797. The ship took part in battles against Tripoli and endured other skirmishes during the War of 1812, inspiring the poet to give her what nickname?

Answers:

1) After testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs, Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson was banned. He was disqualified from competing in the Olympics in the 1988 due to a failed drug test.

2) Jimmy Carter - on this date in 1977. Co-hosted by Walter Cronkite, he took call-in questions on Ask President Carter.

3) It's easiest to remember by using this mnemonic device: HOMES. Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior.

4) "Old Ironsides"

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who was the U.S. fighter pilot who shot down 26 enemy planes in WW1?

2) On this date in 1917, Jeanette Rankin was sworn in as a member of the House of Representatives. This is noteworthy - why?

3) Who was the first president to be inaugurated in Washington, DC?

4) Sonny and Cher's daughter was born this day in 1969. What was her name?

Answers:

1) Edward "Eddie" Rickenbacker

2) She was the first woman to serve in Congress.

3) Thomas Jefferson was the first president to be inaugurated in DC, on this date in 1801.

4) Chastity Bono. Chastity's impending sex change will also mean a name change - she will henceforth go by "Chaz."

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions

1) Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone, was born this date in 1847. Where?

2) On this date in 1879, attorney Belva Ann Lockwood became the first woman to do what?

3) This state was the 27th to join the union on today's date in 1845. Which state was it?

4) What was Elvis Presley's first TV movie?

Answers:

1) Edinburgh, Scotland

2) Belva Ann Lockwood was the first woman to argue a case before the Supreme Court. She also was the country's first female presidential candidate.

3) Florida

4) Louisiana Hayride in 1955.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who was the only person to have been elected governor in two states?

2) Which state ratified the Bill of Rights on this date in 1939?

Answers:

1) Sam Houston was elected governor in both Tennessee and Texas, though he did not serve a full term in either state.

2) Most states ratified the bill in 1789, but Massachusetts got on board March 2, 1939.

Alan Rock's Trivia, March 1, 2010

Q: Who was the first president to be born as a U.S. citizen?
A: Martin Van Buren, who was born in Kinderhook, New York in 1782.

Q: Who was the first president to be photographed while serving in the White House?
A: James Polk, in 1849.

Q: Name the first president to address the nation on the radio.
A: Warren Harding, in 1922.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1936 the first Volkswagen factory opened. Who was responsible for spearheading that effort?

2) Who originally held the patent for stand up advertising cards on restaurant tables?

Answers:

1) Adolf Hitler

2) Lawrence Welk

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1793, George Washington convened the first U.S. Cabinet meeting. Where was it held?

2) What Hollywood actress patented a missile guidance system?

3) What does URL stand for?

Answers:

1) In his home.

2) Hedy Lamarr

3) Universal Resource Locator

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1938, the first nylon one went on sale in New Jersey. What was it?

2) Which famous actor turned down the lead in An Officer and a Gentleman?

Answers:

1) the toothbrush

2) John Travolta

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What is the common name for amytropic lateral sclerosis?

2) Which president is buried on the National Cathedral grounds in Washington DC?

3) Name the first female candidate (of a major political party) to run for Vice-President?

4) How many muscles do caterpillars have?

Answers:

1) ALS is also referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease."

2) Woodrow Wilson

3) Geraldine Ferraro ran as Walter Mondale's running mate in the 1984 election.

4) According to the New World Encyclopedia, caterpillars have some 4000 muscles, as opposed to humans' 629.

Alan Rock's Trivia, Feb 22, 2010

Q: The title role in 1971's "Dirty Harry" was originally offered to (?) who turned it down, then to (?), who also turned it down, then to (?) who refused. The fourth candidate was Clint Eastwood, who gratefully accepted the role. Who were the first three actors?
A: Frank Sinatra, John Wayne, and Paul Newman.

Q: On February 22, 1959 the Daytona 500 was run for the first time. Who won?
A: Lee Petty.

Q: What was the first film in the 1940's major silver screen series that became Bob Hope's hallmark?
A: The "Road to Singapore."

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Actor Lee Marvin was born on this date in 1924. He won a Best Actor Oscar for his role in this 1965 movie, called _____________.

2) Which state was the first to ban alcoholic beverages?

3) On this date in 1922, this vaudeville star became the first big name in show business to sign to a regular radio show. ____________

Answers:

1) Cat Ballou

2) Kansas

3) Ed Wynn

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who was the Russian cosmonaut to be in the first manned space mission?

2) Who was the first African-American to win an individual gold medal in the history of the Winter Olympics?

3) On this date in 1953, the first 3D movie opened at Loew's State Theater in New York, kicking off a brief fad, requiring 3D enthusiasts to attend the movies equipped with special glasses. What was the name of the film?

Answers:

1) Yuri Gagarin - in 1961.

2) Shani Davis won the men's 1,000 meter speed skating competition in Turin in 2006. He repeated the accomplishment last evening. In Turin, Shani hugged a teddy bear as he took his victory lap. When he skated his victory lap last night he held the American flag to his chest.

3) Bwana Devil was the name of the film. It starred Robert Stack and Barbara Britton.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1844 the creator of the mail-order catalogue was born. Who was he?

Answers:

1) Montgomery Ward

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which president brought more pets - more than any other president - including cats, dogs, lizards, guinea pigs, ponies and kangaroos - to the White House?

2) Who was the only grandchild of a president to also become president?

3) Who was the first Boy Scout to become president?

4) "To Anacreon in Heaven" is heard at occasions where people are expected to stand when it is played.

Answers:

1) Teddy Roosevelt

2) Benjamin Harrison

3) John F. Kennedy

4) It is the theme for the Star Spangled Banner

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) George Washington never referred to the national capital by name. What did he call it?

2) Before leaving Illinois for the White House, Abraham Lincoln was forced to sell what two belongings?

Answers:

1) "Federal City"

2) Abraham Lincoln sold both his horse and cow.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) In what language was the book Bambi first published?

2) On this date in 1877, the telephone was publicly demonstrated with a call between what two cities?

3) On this date in 1924, Paul Whiteman and his orchestra performed Rhapsody in Blue. Who was the featured soloist on piano?

Answers:

1) German

2) Boston and Salem, Massachusetts

3) The composer, George Gershwin

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston CHurchill, and Josef Stalin ended their wartime conference. Where was it held?

2) On this date in 1966, Willie Mays became the highest-paid baseball player, signing a two-year contract with the San Francisco Giants. How much was he paid?

Answers:

1) Yalta

2) $130,000

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On February 10, 1942, history's first gold record was awarded to whom and for what song?

2) For what film did actresses Laura Dern and her mother Diane Ladd both receive Oscar nominations?

3) Where did the slogan "All the news that's fit to print" first appear?

Answers:

1) The Glenn Miller Orchestra for "Chattanooga Choo Choo." RCA presented a gold-sprayed master disc to Miller during a radio broadcast.

2) Rambling Rose -- Laura as Best Actress, and Diane for Best Supporting Actress.

3) On page one of the New York Times on February 10, 1897.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Born on this date in 1773, this president served the shortest term of any. Who was he?

2) The Hollywood "Walk of Fame" was inaugurated on this date in 1960. Who was the first to receive a star?

3) The first African American player was inducted to the Baseball Hall of Fame on this date in 1971. Who was he?

4) On this date in 1997, The Simpsons became the longest-running animated series to air in prime-time. What other animated series held the record prior to The Simpsons?

Answers:

1) WIlliam Harrison famously caught a cold during his inauguration and died from it a month later.

2) Joanne Woodward

3) Satchel Paige

4) The Flintstones

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Vessels at sea are often marked "HMS." What do those initials signify?

2) At a live performance, what does SRO stand for?

Answers:

1) "Her (or His) Majesty's Ship

2) standing room only

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who was the first couple to be shown in bed together on primetime television?

2) Who was the first president to be buried in Washington, D.C.?

Answers:

1) Fred and Wilma Flintstone

2) Woodrow Wilson

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) The first Olympics to be held in the U.S. opened on this date in 1932. Where did they take place?

2) This National Park was founded in 1872 and remains active today. It was the first National Park in the world. Which park is it and where is it located?

3) Launched January 31st, 1958, what was the name of this first U.S. satellite to orbit the Earth?

4) How many grams of fat should be consumed daily, based on the average 2,000 calorie per day average?

Answers:

1) Lake Placid, NY

2) Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

3) Explorer

4) 65

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1959, Buddy Holly, along with two other Rock and Roll stars were killed. Who were the other two?

2) The 16th Amendment became law on this date in 1913. What did it provide?

3) Who was the famous traitor who led attacks on West Point and New London, Connecticut?

4) Johan Gutenberg was born this date in 1468. What did he invent?

Answers:

1) Richie Valens and "The Big Bopper"

2) It provided that every American would be taxed according to income.

3) Benedict Arnold

4) The printing press

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1998, President Clinton presented what hadn't been seen in 30 years prior. What was it?

2) In Charles Schulz' beloved strip, "Peanuts," what was Linus's little brother's name?

3) What state capital was once named "Terminus"?

4) What was Farrah Fawcett's character's name on Charlie's Angels?

Answers:

1) A balanced budget

2) Rerun

3) Atlanta

4) Jill Munroe

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On January 29, 1977, actor and comedian Freddy Prinze died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Can you name his co-star in the NBC series "Chico and the Man"?

2) On January 29, 1985, who became the first Heisman Trophy winner to be elected to pro football's Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio?

3) On January 29, 1951, actress Elizabeth Taylor divorced her first husband. Do you remember his name?

4) Who were the first players elected to Baseball's Hall of Fame on January 29, 1936?

Answers:

1) Jack Albertson

2) O.J. Simpson

3) Conrad Hilton, Jr.

4) Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson, and Walter Johnson

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) This actor, born on this date in 1981, appeared in Avalon, Forever Young, and Radio Flyer, all prior to the blockbuster Tolkien series of films, in which he played Froda. Who is he?

2) It was on this date in 1956 that Elvis first appeared on national TV, performing "Heartbreak Hotel." What was the show?

3) He served as Secretary of State in George Washington's administration, then later became president. Who was he?

4) What percentage of pet owners keep a picture of their pet on them?

Answers:

1) Elijah Wood

2) The Dorsey Brothers Stage Show. It was a summer replacement show featuring Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey.

3) Thomas Jefferson

4) 40%

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) The city of Yerba Buena, CA changed its name in 1847. What is its current name?

2) Who was the Democratic challenger to the incumbent democrat, Jimmy Carter in the 1980 presidential election?

Answers:

1) San Francisco

2) Ted Kennedy

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Paul Newman was born on this date in 1925. He was disqualified from Navy Pilot School during WWII for what reason?

2) Who was the nation's first female Attorney General?

3) What president had served first as Secretary of War?

4) The world's largest diamond was discovered this date in 1905. How many carats was it and how much did it weigh?

Answers:

1) He was color blind

2) Janet Reno

3) William Howard Taft

4) 3,106 carats and 1.25 ounces

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Elvis made only one television commercial -- for what product?

2) Which president was the first to hold a televised press conference, carried live on both radio and television?

3) On this date in 1927, Benjamin Kubelsky married Sadye Marks. We know them better as ______________ .

4) The U.S. Attorney General heads which Cabinet department?

Answers:

1) Southern Maid Doughnuts in 1954.

2) John F. Kennedy

3) Jack Benny and Mary Livingston

4) The Department of Justice

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1987, this U.S. TV talkshow was the first to tape a segment here. Which show was it?

2) Inventor David Edward Hughes died this date in 1900. What was his invention?

3) On this date in 1968, this fast-paced satirical revue premiered with hosts Dan Rowan and Dick Martin. What was the name of the show?

Answers:

1) The Phil Donahue Show

2) He invented the microphone

3) Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) According to research by McKinsey & Company of New York, to how many advertisements are Americans exposed during the average day?

2) Name the world's first atomic-powered submarine.

3) Today is the birthday of musician/composer Juan Tizol. Can you name two of the most popular songs he wrote? And for extra credit, what instrument did he play?

4) Name the Shoshone Indian woman guide of the Lewis & Clark expedition, and tell us in what state she was buried.

Answers:

1) 270

2) Nautilus

3) "Caravan" and "Perdido." He was a valve trombonist.

4) Sacajawea lies at rest in the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which U.S. president once served as the president of Columbia University?

2) What famous character did actor DeForest Kelly, born January 20, 1920, play?

3) On January 20, 1920, the second man to set foot on the Moon was born. Can you name him?

4) As of October 2008, which state had the lowest three-number telephone area code?

Answers:

1) Dwight D. Eisenhower.

2) On the original Star Trek TV series and subsequent big-screen releases, he played Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy. His original nickname was "Glands."

3) Astronaut Buzz Aldrin

4) New Jersey, with 201.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) The first televised presidential news conference was conducted on January 19th (I won't say the year). There wasn't much on TV back then, but some viewers still complained because he pre-empted their test pattern. Who was the president?

2) Name the first English child born in America (on August 18, 1587).

3) On January 19, 1977, U.S. President Gerald Ford pardoned Iva Toguri D'Aquino, who had been convicted of treason for her World War II Japanese propaganda broadcasts. We knew her better as?

4) Dolly Parton was born on January 19, 1946. Can you name the 1992 movie in which she co-starred with James Woods?

Answers:

1) Dwight Eisenhower, in 1955

2) Virginia Dare

3) Tokyo Rose

4) Straight Talk.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What is the world's largest office building?

2) On this date in 1967, the first Superbowl was played. Who played and what was the outcome?

3) The U.S. cereal industry uses enough of this substance to cover every American in three pounds of it? What is it?

4) What is the best-selling cereal of all time?

Answers:

1) The Pentagon

2) The Green Bay Packers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, 35-10.

3) Sugar

4) Cheerios

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Actress Shelley Winters died this date in 2006. She was nominated many times for an Academy Award and won twice (A Patch of Blue and The Diary of Anne Frank). Can you name the TV sitcom where she had a recurring role?

2) What was the original title for NBC's The Today Show?

3) On this date in 1963, the first of what would be 124 guest hosts filled in for Johnny Carson. Who was it?

4) On this date in 1690, this musical instrument was created. What was it?

Answers:

1) Roseanne

2) The Rise and Shine Revue

3) Jimmy Dean

4) the clarinet

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) This is Cuckoo Dancing Week, which has nothing to do with dancing. It's a week devoted to remembering the antics of a certain comedic duo. Who?

2) On this date 30 years ago, The Bionic Woman debuted on ABC. Who was the star?

3) Today is "Radio Day." How did that come about?

Answers:

1) Laurel and Hardy. Their theme song was "The Dancing Cuckoo."

2) Lindsay Wagner starred. Her character's name was Jaime Sommers, whose "normal" gig was teaching.

3) On this date in 1910, the first public broadcast went out over the air as tube inventor Lee DeForest aired the voices of Metropolitan Opera stars to several radio receivers in New York City.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What was the name of the Indian Princess on Howdy Doody?

2) On this date in 1932, Hattie Caraway became the first woman to do what?

3) How was "Butch" wax used?

4) Batman made its TV debut this date in 1966. Who played the crime-fighting duo?

Answers:

1) Princess SummerWinterFallSpring

2) A Democrat from Arkansas, she was the first woman to be elected to the U.S. Senate.

3) It was a pomade used to stiffen a flat-top so that the hair would stand up.

4) Adam West played Bruce Wayne/Batman and Burt Ward played his "ward," Dick Grayson/Robin.






Answers:

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1913, the first sedan was unveiled at the National Automobile Show in New York. Who was the manufacturer?

2) Marvin Middlemark invented these to improve reception -- what?

3) On this date in 1964, the U.S. Surgeon General declared that smoking was the number one cause of lung disease. Who was that Surgeon General?

Answers:

1) Hudson Motor Company

2) rabbit ears

3) Luther Terry was the Surgeon General

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Had he lived, Elvis Presley would have turned 75 today. Many celebrations (as well as marketing opportunities) are underway as people remember "The King." Knowing then when he was born, where was he born?

2) How many presidents first served as vice-presidents?

3) It used to be that electoral votes determined who would serve as vice president. For example, had that practice continued, we would have Barack Obama as president and John McCain as vice-president. Which amendment changed the system so that the electoral college voted separately for president and vice-president?

Answers:

1) Tupelo, MS

2) John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Martin Van Buren, John Tyler, Millard Fillmore, Andrew Johnson, Gerald Ford and George H.W. Bush

3) Passed in 1804, the 12th Amendment. The presidential candidate gradually gained power over the nominating convention to allow him (or her!) to choose a running mate.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1789, a very special election occurred. What was it for?

2) On this date in 1990, this famous building was closed to the public. Which building was it?

3) The first commercial bank in the U.S. was opened on this day in 1782, in what city?

Answers:

1) The first U.S. presidential election was held.

2) The Leaning Tower of Pisa

3) Philadelphia

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Where do the anchovies used for pizza come from?

2) On January 9, 1959, Rawhide made its TV debut and featured a Hollywood newcomer who would later star in numerous films and earn acclaim as a director. Who was he and what character did he play?

3) On January 9th, 1987, actor Arthur Lake died at the age of 81. His name may not be familiar, yet he starred in 27 movies always as the same character. Who did he play?

Answers:

1) Pizza anchovies come from the Mediterranean. All other anchovies are processed for use as fish meal, fertilizer or oil.

2) Clint Eastwood played Rowdy Yates.

3) Arthur Lake played Dagwood Bumstead in the Blondie (after the comic strip) movies, going on to portray the character in the TV series.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:
1) On this in 1961, Mr. Ed, the star of which was the "talking" horse, debuted on TV. Who was the voice of Mr. Ed?

2) Which presidents never attended college?

3) Who was the last heavyweight contender to box bare-knuckle fashion?

4) What is the most common religious affiliation of U.S. presidents?

Answers:

1) Allan "Rocky" Lane

2) There were nine: Washington, Jackson, Van Buren, Taylor, Fillmore, Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, Cleveland and Truman.

3) John L. Sullivan

4) Episcopalian is the most common, followed by Presbyterian.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who said, "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country"?

2) Who said, "Man is the only animal that blushes -- or needs to"?

3) What was the name of the New York City political machine led by William "Boss" Tweed in the 1880's?

Answers:

1) Nathan Hale

2) Mark Twain

3) Tammany Hall

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1865, the 13th amendment to the Constitution was ratified, effectively doing what?

2) According to the Department of Agriculture, the leading U.S. crop between 1990 and 2007 was what?

3) What was Steven Spielberg's directorial debut?

Answers:

1) It abolished slavery.

2) corn

3) Spielberg directed an episode of Rod Serling's Night Gallery titled "Eyes,", an episode which starred Joan Crawford as a rich but bitter and vindictive blind woman who pays a destitute man for his corneas so that she can have them transplanted in her eyes. The doctor has prepared her that she will only be able to see for about 8 hours. She is completely indifferent to the fact that in exchange for those eight hours of sight, the man whose corneas she takes will be blind forever. She has the operation, and the instant the bandages are removed, the city is plunged into a blackout. She spends those "sighted" 8 hours trying to get out of the apartment building in the dark stairwells, and finally makes it back to her apartment when the sun comes up. She finally sees the sun, but it's the last thing she does.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Born this date in 1936, this British singer was hailed as "England's answer to Elvis." Who was he?

2) What was the first song ever to reach #1 on the pop, country & western, and rhythm & blues music charts?

3) Who was the youngest man to become president?

Answers:

1) Tommy Steele

2) "Blue Suede Shoes"

3) Theodore Roosevelt was only 42 when he succeeded slain president, William McKinley.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Beethoven was born on this date in 1770. He had an odd habit that he insisted was a great method for stimulating the brain. What did he do?

2) Who was the first running back in the NFL to rush 2000 yards in a single season?

3) In the book, The Wizard of Oz, what were Dorothy's shoes made of (hint: different stuff than the movie)?

4) On this date in 1971, Don McLean released "American Pie," which ran for a whopping 8.5 minutes. The lengthy song nonetheless got a lot of airplay, due to its popularity with deejays. Why so popular?

Answers:

1) He frequently poured ice water over his head.

2) O.J. Simpson, and he did it on this date in 1973.

3) In the original book, Dorothy's shoes were made of silver.

4) Deejays were happy to play "American Pie" because the song provided enough time for a proper bathroom break!

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Walt Disney died this date in 1966. He holds the record for most Academy Awards. How many Oscars has he won, including one posthumously?

2) TV's first miniseries premiered on ABC's "Disneyland" this date in 1954. What was the name of the series?

Answers:

1) 26

2) Davy Crockett

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) The U.S. Table Tennis Association wanted to call its sport Ping-Pong, but were prevented from doing so. Why?

2) Richard Starkey was famous. You're sure to know him and his bandmates. What was his stage name?

Answers:

1) The board game company, Parker Brothers, already owned the rights to the name "ping-pong."

2) Richard Starkey, aka "Ringo Starr," played drums for The Beatles.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Singer Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton was born this date in 1926. She recorded a song which became a big hit when Elvis covered it. What was it?

2) For what film did Teri Garr receive a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination?

3) How many islands make up the Bahamas?

Answers:

1) "Hound Dog"

2) Tootsie

3) 700

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1931, this individual won the Nobel Peace Prize. She was the first American woman to do so. Who was she?

2) Who wrote the 1823 poem, "A Visit from St. Nicholas"?

3) British Airways passengers consume approximately six tons of it yearly. What?

Answers:

1) Jane Addams, an ardent feminist and ethicist, was a co-recipient that year for her work for peace, voting rights for women and housing for the poor.

2) Clement Clark Moore

3) Caviar

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1992, a famous couple announced their separation. Who were they?

2) In the Christmas classic, It's a Wonderful Life, which character lost the $8,000?

Answers:

1) Charles and Diana

2) Uncle Billy

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Actor David Carradine was born on this date in 1936. Paying homage to both the Three Stooges and his own Kung Fu iconic role, he did a series of TV ads for which brand of iced tea?

2) Architect James Hoban died this date in 1831. He was famous for designing what building?

3) American Airlines cut their costs by $40,000 in 1987 by doing what?

Answers:

1) Lipton ("this ain't no sippin' tea" was the tag line). Watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFcNasduOYQ

2) The White House

3) They stopped including olives in the passengers' salads.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:
1) Every episode of Seinfeld contains an image or reference to what superhero?

2) Who was the only regular cast member of TV's M*A*S*H to actually serve in the Army in Korea?

3) On November 27, 1952, this drama was released, based on the true story of the Tsavo man-eaters. It was written, directed, and produced by Arch Oboler, and is considered the first American color 3-D feature and was considered responsible for starting the brief (1952 - 1954) 3-D craze in U.S. film-making. It starred Robert Stack, Barbara Britton, and Nigel Bruce. The film's tagline was: "The Miracle of the Age!!! A LION in your lap! A LOVER in your arms!" Can you name that film?

Answers:

1) Superman

2) Jamie Farr

3) Bwana Devil!

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What was the first U.S. holiday by presidential proclamation?

2) Which department store was the first to hold a Thanksgiving parade?

3) The word turkey comes from the Hebrew "tukki" which means what?

4) Captain John Smith founded what colony in Virginia?


Answers:

1) President Washington declared November 26, 1789 to be Thanksgiving Day.

2) Gimbel's in 1920

3) Big bird or pheasant bird

4) Jamestown

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Over what attack did Admiral Nagano mastermind and execute?

2) Which United States river is the longest?

3) What was the celebrity nickname given to the short-term boxer known as Packy East?

4) There are 7 ways a baseball player-at-bat can get on base. Name them.

Answers:

1) Admiral Nagano was responsible for plotting out and commanding the attack on Pearl Harbor.

2) 2,466 miles long, the Missouri River is the longest river in the U.S.

3) "Bob Hope"

4) a hit, a walk, fielder's error, fielder's choice, being hit by a pitch, catcher's interference and a dropped third strike

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) The first U.S. president to travel abroad made his journey on this date in ____. Who was it and when?

2) What is the nutritional value of coffee?

Answers:

1) Woodrow Wilson sailed for France on this date in 1918.

2) Trick question - there is none, per se, although many of us swear we're not fully functioning until we have some.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1967, Dr. Christiaan Barnard was the first to perform this. What procedure was it?

2) In the 1952 movie musical fantasy about Hans Christian Andersen, who played the lead?

3) Before he wrote the Sherlock Holmes series, Arthur Conan Doyle made his living doing what?

Answers:

1) He performed the world's first successful heart transplant.

2) Danny Kaye played Hans Christian Andersen.

3) Arthur Conan Doyle.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Britney Spears was born on this date in 1981. Raised in Louisiana, at the age of nine, she competed at the state level as an athlete. What sport did she compete in?

2) Which sport has a "sin bin"?

3) On this date in 1927, Henry Ford unveiled his exciting new Model A, the first Ford available in a choice of colors. But beauty was expensive and the sporty new Model A roadster sold for how much?

4) In what battle was the quote, "We have the enemy, and they are ours."

Answers:
1) Gymnastics

2) "sin bin" is a nickname

3) $385

4) It was uttered during the War of 1812's Battle of Lake Erie.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Where is the world's only museum dedicated to roller skating located?

2) The first telephone in the White House was installed on this date in 1878. Who was the president?

3) Bette Midler was born on this date in 1945. She won an Emmy for her appearance on a TV show - what show?

Answers:

1) Lincoln, Nebraska

2) Rutherford B. Hayes

3) She was awarded the Emmy for her appearance on Johnny Carson's final night hosting The Tonight Show.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who was the first European to land in America?

2) Which former president's son served as Secretary of War, then later as Minister to the Court of St. James in Great Britain?

3) What does anaerobic mean?

4) Which months have 30 days or less?

Answers:

1) Leif Ericson, nearly 500 years prior to Christopher Columbus's fabled landing!

2) Robert Todd Lincoln

3) does not require oxygen for growth

4) Five months have 30 days or fewer. The old rhyme helps: "30 days hath September, April, June and November. All the rest have 31, excepting February alone, which hath twenty-eight days clear, and twenty-nine in each leap year."

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) According to the Butterball Corporation, they recommend that you thaw a wrapped turkey in the refrigerator how long per four pounds of bird?


2) Which president was the first to establish Thanksgiving as a legal national holiday to be held the fourth Thursday in November?

3) In Canada they celebrate Thanksgiving in what month?

Answers:

1) One day.

2) Franklin D. Roosevelt.

3) October.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which famed movie star's real name was Archibald Leach?

2) What does GI stand for?

3) In what war did those in service first become tagged as GI's?

4) FDR signed Public Law #773 on November 23, 1942, creating the SPARS. What were they?

Answers:

1) Cary Grant.

2) GI refers to government-issued supplies and equipment.

3) World War II.

4) SPARS was the U.S. Coast Guard Women's Reserve. The name is an acronym of the Coast Guard motto Semper Paratus and its English translation, Always Ready. The name also refers to a spar in nautical usage. Like the other women's reserves such as the WACS and the WAVES, it was created to free men from stateside service in order to fight overseas. Its first director was Captain Dorothy C. Stratton.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) What is the only food that does not spoil?

2) Rosita Alverio won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 1961, but accepted it with her stage and screen name. What was her stage name?

3) What musician patented a method for coordinating music in a large orchestra?

Answers:

1) Honey

2) Rita Moreno

3) Harry Connick, Jr.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which U.S. president was arrested - while he was still in office - for running over an elderly woman with his horse?

2) On this date in 1789, this state became the first to ratify the Bill of Rights. Which state was it?

Answers:

1) Franklin Pierce

2) New Jersey

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Inscribed on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty are these words: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses..." etc. Who was the author?

2) On this date in 1969, Apollo 12 astronauts made a second landing on the moon. Who were they?

3) What was Larry King's first radio job?

Answers:

1) Poet Emma Lazarus was the author. The inscription on the Statue of Liberty is excerpted from her poem, "New Colossus."

2) Charles Conrad and Alan Bean

3) Larry King began his broadcasting career as a janitor at an AM station in Miami.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Marlon Brando patented four devices, all with the same name, for a particular musical instrument. Which instrument was it?

2) For what item did Harry Houdini receive a patent in 1921?

3) What countries signed on as members and participants in NAFTA in 1994?

Answers:

1) Brando patented the "drumhead tensioning device and method," designed for the snare drum.

2) A diving suit

3) U.S., Canada and Mexico

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who created the first known design of a robot?

2) What Hollywood actress patented a missile guidance system?

3) Which of the Marx Brothers invented a special watch for cardiac patients?

4) Who originally held the patent for stand-up advertising cards on restaurant tables?

Answers:

1) Leonardo da Vinci

2) Hedy Lamar

3) Zeppo

4) Lawrence Welk

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What was Whoopi Goldberg's given name?

2) Whoopi won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 1990 for what role in what movie?

3) What product was featured in the first television commercial?

Answers:

1) Whoopi's birth name was Caryn Johnson.

2) She won for her part as Oda Mae Brown in Ghost.

3) The first commercial showed a Bulova watch with the famous ticking second hand.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Controversial figure skater Tonya Harding was born this date in 1970. In 2002 she appeared as a featured contender in a Fox Celebrity Boxing event. Who was her opponent?

2) Baby dogs are puppies, cats give birth to kittens. What are baby eels called?

3) Ralph Waldo Emerson was famous for saying that "for every minute you are angry, you lose..." what?

Answers:

1) Former Clinton accuser, Paula Jones.

2) A baby eel is an elver.

3) sixty seconds of happiness

Alan Rock's Trivia! (for 11/11/09)

Questions:

1) What cigarette maker sponsored The Flintstones?

2) "Lucky" Luciano was born November 11th, 1896. What was his real first name?

3) Dumbo was a derisive nickname for Disney's child elephant with over-sized ears. What had Dumbo's mother named him?

4) Born November 11, 1922, he wrote Slaughterhouse Five, Cat's Cradle, and Breakfast of Champions. Who was this beloved author?

Answers:

1) Winston.

2) Charles

3) Jumbo, Jr.

4) Kurt Vonnegut

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which branch of the military was created this date in 1775?

2) What does the acronym NAFTA stand for?

3) Name the capital of the Republic of Singapore.

Answers:

1) The Marine Corps

2) North American Free Trade Agreement

3) Singapore is the capital of the Republic of Singapore.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) The three most populous cities are _______, _______, and _______.

2) The three most populous countries are _______, _______, and _______.

3) Six states established the CSA at a meeting in Montgomery, Alabama, February 4th, 1861.

Answers:

1) Tokyo, New York and Mexico City

2) China, India and the United States.

3) Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:
1) What is the oldest weekly program on television?

2) Name the only U.S. state that doesn't have a cave?

3) What are the traditional gifts for 25th and 50th anniversaries?

Answers:

1) Meet the Press

2) Delaware is without caves.

3) Silver and gold, respectively.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Roy Rogers was born this date in 1911. He had a famous horse, Trigger; what was his dog's name?

2) Randy Quaid voiced an animated version of this fast food icon for the restaurant chain's ad campaign back in the 90s. Who was it?

3) What percentage of households in Detroit do not have access to automobiles?

Answers:

1) Bullet

2) Colonol Sanders (KFC was the chain)

3) 33%

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Can you name the 4 families of apes?

2) What was Veteran's Day originally called?

Answers:

1) chimpanzees, gibbons, gorillas and orangutans

2) Armistice Day

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1847, the two first U.S. postage stamps were sold. Whose images did they bear?

2) On this date in 1964, the world's longest suspension bridge opened. Where is it and what was its name?

3) The first Super Bowl was held in 1967. Which teams played and which one won?

Answers:

1) The five-cent stamp showed Ben Franklin; the ten-cent stamp had Jefferson.

2) The Verrazano-Narrows Bridge in NYC.

3) Held in Los Angeles, it was a contest between the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs. The Packers won, 35 -10.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

(for Monday, November 2)

On this date in ....

1896: Britain issued the first motor car insurance policy, but damage caused by frightened horses was specifically excluded.

1948: President Harry S. Truman barely won re-election over Republican challenger Thomas E. Dewey

1958: Billboard magazine introduced a new chart that ranked the top 100 singles.

1959: In New York, Montreal Canadiens goalie Jacques Plante became the first NHL goalie to wear a mask on a permanent basis after getting hit by a shot from Rangers' Andy Bathgate.

1963: The Beach Boys released "Be True To Your School."

1966: Paul Revere & The Raiders appeared on TV's "Batman."

1976: Georgia peanut farmer Jimmy Carter was elected President of the U.S.

1980: A significant decline in television family values began when Edith Bunker died.

1988: A Cornell University graduate student unleashed a computer "worm" that began reproducing and clogging thousands of computers around the country.

1991: Some 100 members of the Tenafly High School class of 1956 finally held their senior prom in Tenafly, New Jersey. The original prom was cancelled after beer bottles were thrown from a bus in the Lincoln Tunnel during a class trip to New York City.

1996: Louisville, Kentucky, police released two Chicago men of Palestinian descent from jail when the white powder found in their car turned out to be dried yogurt, which is common in Middle East countries. The men had told police for two days that=s what it was.

1997: Ashlyn and Lacey McCleve, 4-year-old and 7-year-old sisters from Gilbert, Arizona, were chosen as the newest Oscar Mayer wieners in a nationwide contest to find children to sing the Balogna song. The girls also shared the top prize, a $20-thousand college scholarship.

2091: The computer-animated movie "Monsters, Inc." opened in the U.S., recording the best debut ever for an animated film.

2003: British intelligence finally identified a mysterious transmission that had baffled analysts for days. The nation's leading communications scientists determined strange high-frequency noises coming from Scarborough signal station in Yorkshire were caused by a goat rubbing its horns against an antenna mast.

2003: P. Diddy raised $2 million for childrens' charities by finishing in the New York City Marathon. His time was 4 hours 14 minutes 54 seconds.

2004: President Bush was elected to a second term and Republicans strengthened their majorities in Congress.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Actor Tim Robbins was born this day in 1958. He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for this 2003 movie. What was its name?

2) If you suffer from hypnophobia, you fear what?

3) Which U.S. president used to swim in the Potomac against the current for exercise?

Answers:

1) Mystic River

2) You are afraid to go to sleep.

3) John Quincy Adams

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1990, a former Soviet Republic leader was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Who was it?

2) On this date in 1903, Gordon Nance was born in Pattonsburg, MO. We knew him better as what silver screen cowboy?

3) Before Linda Lavin got the lead on TV's "Alice," she had a recurring role on another hit show of the 70s. Which show was it?

Answers:

1) Mikhail Gorbachev

2) As "Wild Bill" Elliott, he starred in the Saturday serial, "The Great Adventures of Wild Bill Hickock" and he played Red Ryder in both serials and feature films.

3) Linda Lavin had a recurring role as Det. Janice Wentworth in "Barney Miller."

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1926, the first Winnie the Pooh book was published. Name the author.

2) In the TV series, Maverick, Roger Moore had a recurring role. What was it?

Answers:

1) A.A. Milne

2) He played "Beauregard," Bret Maverick's cousin.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1957, two superstars hosted an hour-long TV special on ABC introducing the 1958 Edsel. The special was a ratings hit. Who were they?

2) On this date in 1958, Warren Covington and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra had the #7 hit on Billboard's Hot 100. It was the last "big band" hit song. Name it.

3) Which brand of coffee first appeared in sealed tin cans in 1879?

4) On this date in 1792, the cornerstone to the White House was laid. Who was the first presidential family to live in the White House?

Answers:

1) Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra

2) "Tea-for-Two Cha-Cha"

3) Chase and Sanborn

4) John Adams

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which mammal has the longest life expectancy?

2) Which flower was appointed by Congress to be the U.S. national flower?

3) Before dinner plates, what did people eat off of?

Answers:

1) Humans have the longest life expectancy

2) the rose

3) people used thick slices of stale bread they called a "trencher"

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What did Columbus bring to the New World on his third trip that he missed bringing before?

2) What is the longest time a chicken remained in flight?

3) For which role did Charlton Heston receive the Oscar for best actor?

4) What film produced a Best Actor Oscar for Robert DeNiro?

Answers:

1) Rather than what, it's who. Columbus brought women - 30, to be specific, on his third voyage.

2) 13 seconds

3) Judah Ben-Hur in Ben-Hur (1959)

4) Raging Bull

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1956, the only perfect game in a World Series was pitched in a matchup between the New York Yankees and Brooklyn Dodgers. Who was the pitcher?

2) How many eggs does an oyster lay?

3) On this date in 1919, Congress passed the Volstead Act, outlawing what?

4) Which U.S. general, who served in both the War of 1812 and the Civil War, was 6'5" and 300 lbs?

Answers:

1) Don Larsen

2) A female American Oyster lays an average of 500 million eggs per year. Usually, only one survives.

3) The Volstead Act ushered in the era of Prohibition, prohibiting the sale and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages.

4) Winfield Scott

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Where does the art of bonsai come from?

2) The fastest growing trees grow at what rate per month?

3) What's the difference between regular boxing gloves and golden gloves?

4) Who was known as the "March King" and was a noted leader of the U.S. Marine Band?

Answers:

1) China

2) The Quercus Virginiana (live oak) tree grows 2.5 ft. per month

3) So-called "golden gloves" weigh 10 0ounces, while regular gloves weigh 8 ounces.

4) John Philip Sousa

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) How many varieties of tomatoes are there (hint:L the answer may be on your ketchup bottle!)?

2) In 1893, this fruit was designated as a vegetable in a court decision pertaining to tariff laws. What was it?

3) Seven U.S. states were named after royalty. Which ones are they?

4) Where were streets first paved?

Answers:

1) 57 (that was too easy!)

2) The TOMATO!

3) Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, North and South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia

4) Rome laid out the world's first paved streets 170 BC. The new streets were popular, as they functioned in all sorts of weather and were easier to keep clean, but they did tend to amplify the noise level.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What U.S. president had an autobiography entitled, Where's the Rest of Me?

2) Name the son of a slave family who was the first to receive an honorary degree from Harvard in 1896.

3) In 1781, this state was the first to officially designate the Fourth of July as a holiday. Which state was it?

Answers:

1) This was Ronald Reagan's biography , published in 1965.

2) Booker T. Washington

3) Massachusetts