If you’re a trivia geek and get bored at quiz nights, you may be ready for more difficult trivia questions. Whether you’re the host or player, this list of 140 hard trivia questions and answers will make for a rambunctious and competitive games night.
From general knowledge questions to literature, geography trivia, and pop culture, this list has something for everyone. But don’t expect it to be easy. We’ve taken things up a notch, so you really need to know your stuff.
Hard General Knowledge Questions
Starting with general knowledge, these 18 hard trivia questions will have you scratching your head.
Name the Dutch artist who had depression, seizures, lived in poverty, and painted about 900 paintings.
Answer: Vincent van Gogh.
Fun Fact: Van Gogh’s posthumous fame was astonishing, given that he sold only one painting during his lifetime. Today, his works are among the most expensive in the world, fetching over $100 million at auctions.
How many digits are in Pi?
Answer: 62.8 trillion (62,831,853,071,769).
Fun Fact: Pi’s calculation has exploded with the advent of computers. In 1949, a computer calculated 2,000 digits, setting a new record. Now, trillions of digits have been computed.
Who owned the Mona Lisa painting after da Vinci died?
Answer: King Francis I of France.
Fun Fact: The Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre in 1911 and was missing for two years before being recovered. This incident significantly boosted its global fame.
Which country has won the most Women’s World Cups?
Answer: United States of America.
Fun Fact: The USA Women’s National Soccer Team has won four World Cups, more than any other nation, showcasing their international dominance in women’s soccer.
Name the only English man ever to be the Pope.
Answer: Pope Adrian IV.
Fun Fact: Adrian IV, born Nicholas Breakspear, is the only Englishman to have become Pope, serving from 1154 to 1159. Interestingly, he granted Ireland to King Henry II of England, leading to the English invasion of Ireland.
What is the smallest prime number greater than 10?
Answer: 11.
Fun Fact: Prime numbers, like 11, have intrigued mathematicians for centuries. Ancient Greeks studied prime numbers, laying the groundwork for modern number theory.
What does SMS mean in the context of cell phones?
Answer: Short Message Service.
Fun Fact: SMS technology was developed in the 1980s, and the first-ever text message, sent in December 1992, read “Merry Christmas.”
What singer has a barcode tattoo on the back of their neck, which features significant numbers, including the person’s birthday?
Answer: P!nk.
Fun Fact: P!nk’s eclectic tattoos tell her life story, with over 30 tattoos that include a tribute to her dog, a razor blade, and Buddhist symbols reflecting her spiritual beliefs.
How much does the Lombardi Trophy, the trophy for the Super Bowl, weigh?
Answer: Seven pounds (107.3 ounces).
Fun Fact: The Lombardi Trophy is made of sterling silver by Tiffany & Co. and takes approximately four months and 72 man-hours to craft.
What country eats the most chocolate, with the average person eating 8.8 kg annually?
Answer: Switzerland.
Fun Fact: Switzerland consumes the most chocolate per capita and invented milk chocolate in 1875, revolutionizing the chocolate industry globally.
What year was the American Lager, Miller, launched?
Answer: 1903.
Fun Fact: The Miller Brewing Company was founded by Frederick Miller, a German immigrant who brought his beer brewing skills to the U.S.A., contributing to the rise of American lager.
What is the name of the fundamental force that holds atomic nuclei together?
Answer: Strong nuclear force.
Fun Fact: The strong nuclear force is the strongest of the four fundamental forces, but it operates over the smallest scale and is only effective within the atomic nucleus.
What is Indiana’s state bird?
Answer: Cardinal.
Fun Fact: The cardinal is the state bird of Indiana and six other states, making it one of the most common state birds in the United States.
Where did Meryl Streep donate her entire salary from “The Iron Lady” to?
Answer: The Women’s History Museum.
Fun Fact: Meryl Streep is known for her philanthropy, and her donation to the Women’s History Museum underscores her commitment to supporting women’s rights and history.
Who wrote the epic poem “La Pucelle d’Orléans”?
Answer: Voltaire.
Fun Fact: Voltaire’s “La Pucelle d’Orléans” satirizes the legend of Joan of Arc, showcasing his wit and critical view on historical and religious narratives.
In which state was the actress Scarlet Johansson born?
Answer: New York.
Fun Fact: Scarlett Johansson has dual American and Danish citizenship, reflecting her international appeal and connections.
How many countries speak Spanish as their official language?
Answer: 21.
Fun Fact: Spanish is the second most spoken language by native speakers globally, with significant populations across the Americas, Europe, and even Africa.
What is the chemical symbol for lead?
Answer: Pb.
Fun Fact: The symbol Pb for lead comes from its Latin name “plumbum,” which is also the origin of the word “plumbing,” as lead pipes were used in ancient Roman plumbing systems.
Difficult History Trivia Questions
Calling all history buffs! These next 17 questions are for you. Head back in time to crack the answers.
Name the first female American billionaire.
Answer: Martha Stewart.
Fun Fact: Martha Stewart turned homemaking into a media empire, becoming America’s first self-made female billionaire in 2000 before facing legal troubles.
Who was the first Black person to serve as U.S. Supreme Court justice?
Answer: Thurgood Marshall.
Fun Fact: Before becoming a Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall won the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education, which ended racial segregation in public schools.
Where were the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests held, which led to hundreds, if not thousands of deaths (there is no official death toll)?
Answer: Beijing, China.
Fun Fact: The Tiananmen Square protests are a symbol of the global struggle for democracy and human rights, and the exact death toll remains unknown due to government suppression.
What war held the Christmas truce?
Answer: The First World War.
Fun Fact: The Christmas Truce of 1914 was a series of unofficial ceasefires across the Western Front, where soldiers from opposing sides mingled, exchanged gifts, and even played soccer.
What was the first city to be struck by an atomic bomb in 1945?
Answer: Hiroshima, Japan.
Fun Fact: The atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima had the code name “Little Boy,” and its detonation marked the first use of nuclear weapons in war.
Who was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt?
Answer: Cleopatra.
Fun Fact: Cleopatra was not Egyptian but of Macedonian Greek descent and was the last ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt.
When did the construction of the Colosseum begin?
Answer: Between 70 and 72 C.E.
Fun Fact: The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, could hold over 50,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and theatrical performances.
Who were the TIME people of the year in 2014?
Answer: The Ebola Fighters (five healthcare workers who fought against the Ebola outbreak).
Fun Fact: The Ebola Fighters were recognized for their heroic efforts in combating one of the deadliest Ebola outbreaks in history, which affected several countries in West Africa.
Name the U.S. president whose father escaped the 1920 Wall Street Bombing, which killed 38 people.
Answer: John F. Kennedy.
Fun Fact: Joseph P. Kennedy, John F. Kennedy’s father, narrowly escaped the 1920 Wall Street bombing, which influenced his views on financial regulation and stability.
Name the person that Philip II of Macedon invited Aristotle to tutor.
Answer: Alexander the Great.
Fun Fact: Aristotle’s tutelage of Alexander the Great profoundly impacted history, combining Greek philosophy and culture with Alexander’s conquests, and spreading Hellenistic civilization.
Name the Siberian peasant and mystic known for healing sick people and predicting the future.
Answer: Grigori Rasputin.
Fun Fact: Rasputin’s influence over the Russian royal family stirred controversy and fascination, contributing to the mystique surrounding his life and the eventual fall of the Romanov dynasty.
Name the queen of England who married both Louis VII of France and Henry II of England.
Answer: Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Fun Fact: Eleanor of Aquitaine was one of the most powerful and influential figures of the Middle Ages. She was queen consort in France and England, and played a crucial role in the politics of the time.
What U.S. state was fought over in the Mexican-American War?
Answer: Texas.
Fun Fact: The Mexican-American War (1846–1848) led to the annexation of Texas and significantly increased the size of the United States, shaping the nation’s future territorial expansion.
In what 1992 novel do the Misfits of a New England College adopt a new way of living that ultimately leads to corruption and evil?
Answer: “The Secret History.”
Fun Fact: “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt is celebrated for its rich narrative and deep exploration of themes like beauty, morality, and the nature of evil, establishing Tartt as a significant literary figure.
What Empire did Egypt join after Cleopatra’s death?
Answer: Roman.
Fun Fact: After Cleopatra’s death, Egypt became a province of the Roman Empire, marking the end of Ptolemaic rule and the beginning of a new era in Egyptian history.
Who ruled Scotland from 1040 to 1057 when he died in a battle?
Answer: Macbeth.
Fun Fact: Macbeth, the King of Scots, was later immortalized by William Shakespeare in his play “Macbeth,” although his historical reign was more stable and less tyrannical than depicted in the drama.
Fought near Belgium in 1815, name the battle that ended 23 years of warfare between France and other European countries.
Answer: The Battle of Waterloo.
Fun Fact: The Battle of Waterloo, which took place on Sunday, June 18, 1815, marked the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte and ended his rule as Emperor of the French, significantly altering European political landscapes.
Challenging Language and Literature Trivia
The next round of difficult trivia questions is one for the lover of words. From questions about famous books and authors, to questions about various languages, delve into these 18 mind-boggling questions.
Who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1965 for the novel “And Quiet Flows the Don”?
Answer: Mikhail Sholokhov.
Fun Fact: Sholokhov’s “And Quiet Flows the Don” is renowned for its epic depiction of Russian life and character during World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the Civil War, reflecting the author’s deep understanding of Cossack society.
What year is “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” set?
Answer: 1940.
Fun Fact: Written by C.S. Lewis, “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” is set during WWII, subtly reflecting the conflict and the theme of good versus evil in its narrative.
How does the Wizard leave Oz in the book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”?
Answer: A hot air balloon.
Fun Fact: In L. Frank Baum’s original story, the Wizard’s departure in a hot air balloon symbolizes the fleeting and elusive nature of authority and power.
Ernest Hemingway wrote a memoir about his experience of being a struggling writer. What is the memoir called?
Answer: “A Moveable Feast.”
Fun Fact: “A Moveable Feast,” published posthumously, vividly captures Hemingway’s years in Paris during the 1920s, mingling with other literary icons like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Gertrude Stein.
What are the five love languages, as described in Gary Chapman’s famous 1990 self-help book “The Five Love Languages”?
Answer: Physical touch, words of affirmation, gift-giving, quality time, and acts of service.
Fun Fact: Gary Chapman’s concept of love languages has significantly influenced how people understand and communicate their affection, improving relationships worldwide.
Roughly how many languages are spoken in the world (the closest number wins)?
Answer: 7,000.
Fun Fact: Many of the world’s 7,000 languages are endangered, with linguists estimating that one language becomes extinct every two weeks.
Sign language isn’t the most popular language in the United Kingdom, but it is the ____ most popular.
Answer: Fourth.
Fun Fact: The U.K. government officially recognized British Sign Language (BSL) in 2003, highlighting its importance in the country’s linguistic diversity.
Which of these languages isn’t considered romantic: French, Latin, Russian, Portuguese?
Answer: Russian.
Fun Fact: Russian belongs to the Slavic language family, while French, Latin, and Portuguese are part of the Romance language family, which evolved from Latin.
Who delivers the line “Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble” in Shakespeare’s play “Macbeth”?
Answer: The three witches.
Fun Fact: This famous line from “Macbeth” has permeated popular culture and is often cited in various forms of media to evoke mystery and supernatural themes.
Which book features a main character inspired by a girl with thyroid cancer whom the author met at a “Harry Potter” convention?
Answer: “The Fault in Our Stars.”
Fun Fact: John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars” was inspired by Esther Earl, a young fan he met who passed away from cancer, leading to a story that touched millions globally.
What famous singer wrote the poetry collection “Violet Bent Backwards Over the Grass” released in 2020?
Answer: Lana Del Rey.
Fun Fact: Lana Del Rey’s poetry in “Violet Bent Backwards Over the Grass” offers a glimpse into her artistic world, blending her lyrical style with personal reflections and social commentary.
How many languages make up the official language of the United Nations?
Answer: Six.
Fun Fact: The six official languages of the United Nations — Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish — reflect the organization’s commitment to linguistic diversity and international communication.
Name the two official languages of the Philippines.
Answer: Filipino and English.
Fun Fact: Filipino is based on Tagalog, one of the many languages spoken in the Philippines, while English is widely used in government, education, and business, highlighting the country’s colonial history and global connections.
The first language spoken in space was Russian in 1961, but by who?
Answer: Yuri Gagarin.
Fun Fact: Yuri Gagarin’s first words in space were “Poyekhali!” (Let’s go!), marking a historic moment as he became the first human to journey into outer space and orbit the Earth.
What is the longest word in English, consisting of 45 letters?
Answer: Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis.
Fun Fact: This word, often considered the longest in the English language, refers to a lung disease caused by inhaling very fine silicate or quartz dust, mainly used as an example of long words.
“The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson was adapted for TV, but who was the director?
Answer: Mike Flanagan.
Fun Fact: Mike Flanagan’s adaptation of “The Haunting of Hill House” received critical acclaim for its psychological depth, character development, and horror elements, distinguishing it from the original novel while maintaining its eerie essence.
Name the study guides a Nebraska man and his wife started in 1958, starting with 16 Shakespeare titles.
Answer: CliffsNotes.
Fun Fact: CliffsNotes was originally developed to provide concise literary study guides. They have become synonymous with quick study aids for students across a wide range of subjects.
What color are Dorothy’s shoes in the original novel by L. Frank Baum?
Answer: Silver.
Fun Fact: In L. Frank Baum’s “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” Dorothy’s shoes were silver, but changed to ruby red in the 1939 film adaptation to take advantage of the new Technicolor film process.
Hard Mathematics and Science Trivia
If literature and language aren’t your thing, then this round of mathematics and science trivia might be more interesting. With no multiple-choice questions, this round isn’t impossible, but it’s pretty tricky. We’ve included questions for kids and for adults, so there should be something for everyone to try.
What are the first seven prime numbers?
Answer: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, and 17.
Fun Fact: Prime numbers have been studied since ancient times and are crucial in various fields of mathematics and computer science, particularly in cryptography and number theory.
What does Arithmophobia mean?
Answer: Fear of numbers.
Fun Fact: Arithmophobia can lead to significant anxiety and difficulty in performing mathematical tasks, affecting both children and adults in their academic and daily lives.
If you order 33 drinks, 29 sides, 101 burgers, and 98 ice cream sundaes, how many items is that in total?
Answer: 261.
Fun Fact: This type of addition problem is common in combinatorics, a field of mathematics concerning the counting, arrangement, and combination of objects.
What planet is 31,763 miles in diameter, making it four times wider than Earth?
Answer: Uranus.
Fun Fact: Uranus was the first planet discovered with a telescope and is unique for its sideways rotation, leading to extreme seasonal variations.
How long does it take for the sun’s light to reach Earth?
Answer: 8 and ⅓ minutes.
Fun Fact: The speed of light is about 186,282 miles per second, meaning sunlight travels approximately 93 million miles to reach Earth in just over eight minutes.
How close to Earth is the closest black hole (measurement: light years)?
Answer: About 1,560 light-years.
Fun Fact: Black holes remain one of the most mysterious phenomena in the universe. These spacetime regions exhibit gravitational acceleration so strong that nothing — no particles or even electromagnetic radiation such as light — can escape from them.
How hot (in degrees Fahrenheit) is lightning?
Answer: 50,000 degrees.
Fun Fact: Lightning is hotter than the sun’s surface, which is about 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Its rapid heating and cooling of the air leads to the shock wave we hear as thunder.
What is the largest planet in the solar system, known for its Great Red Spot?
Answer: Jupiter.
Fun Fact: Jupiter’s Great Red Spot is a giant storm larger than Earth that has been raging for at least 400 years, observed since the 1600s.
Riddle me this: I am an odd number. Take away one letter, and I become even.
Answer: Seven.
Fun Fact: By removing the “s” from “seven,” it becomes “even,” playing on the words’ meanings and numerical values.
If Brian rides his bike three miles to school every day, but gets picked up twice a week, how many miles does he cycle per week?
Answer: 24.
Fun Fact: This question combines basic arithmetic with real-world application in planning and scheduling, illustrating daily distance calculations.
Name the body part that is made up of eight muscles and changes color depending on its health.
Answer: Tongue.
Fun Fact: The tongue’s color and texture can indicate various health conditions, making it an important indicator in medical diagnoses.
What is the square root of 1764?
Answer: 42.
Fun Fact: 42 is often associated with the novel “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams, where it is humorously presented as the “Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything.”
What does DNA stand for?
Answer: Deoxyribonucleic acid.
Fun Fact: DNA was first identified in the late 1860s by Swiss chemist Friedrich Miescher, but its importance in genetics and heredity was only realized in the 20th-century.
What percentage of DNA do humans share with plants?
Answer: 50%
Fun Fact: Humans share a significant amount of genetic material with all living organisms, highlighting the common ancestry and evolutionary history of life on Earth.
What is the rarest blood type in humans?
Answer: Rh-null.
Fun Fact: Rh-null blood type, known as the “golden blood,” is extremely rare, with fewer than 50 known cases ever reported, making it highly valuable for research and medical use.
What is the term used to measure greenhouse gases?
Answer: Carbon footprint.
Fun Fact: The concept of the carbon footprint is critical in environmental science, quantifying the amount of carbon dioxide emissions for which an individual or organization is responsible, thus influencing climate change policies and sustainability practices.
What is the scientific name for when a person sheds a layer of tissue or skin?
Answer: Desquamation.
Fun Fact: Desquamation is a natural process in the skin’s renewal cycle, commonly seen as peeling after sunburn, which helps to remove damaged cells and regenerate the skin.
Difficult Art and Music Trivia
If you were looking for simple trivia questions, you have landed in the wrong place! The following 18 questions are extremely challenging. From obscure art to obscure questions, this round is for those who consume art on the daily.
Who sculpted the bronze statue “The Thinker,” which is part of the artist’s work “The Gates of Hell”?
Answer: Auguste Rodin.
Fun Fact: “The Thinker” is one of Rodin’s most famous works, initially intended to represent Dante before the Gates of Hell, pondering his great poem, “The Divine Comedy.”
Where was Tupac born?
Answer: East Harlem, New York.
Fun Fact: Tupac Shakur, despite being associated with the West Coast rap scene, was born on the East Coast in Harlem, New York, highlighting the cross-regional influences in his music.
Who composed the 2008 “WALL-E” soundtrack?
Answer: Thomas Newman.
Fun Fact: Thomas Newman’s score for “WALL-E” is celebrated for conveying emotion and narrative in a film where the main characters speak very little, demonstrating the power of music in storytelling.
Who wrote the song “Human Nature” by Michael Jackson?
Answer: Steve Porcaro and John Bettis.
Fun Fact: “Human Nature” was a last-minute addition to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” album and has become one of his most enduring hits, showcasing his versatility and emotional depth.
Who sang the 2012 song for the James Bond film?
Answer: Adele.
Fun Fact: Adele’s song “Skyfall” for the James Bond film of the same name won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, cementing her place in the franchise’s storied musical history.
What year was the Pulitzer Prize established?
Answer: 1917.
Fun Fact: The Pulitzer Prize, established by newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer, is considered among the most prestigious awards in American journalism, literature, and musical composition.
Name the artist best known for his cartoon-like mustache and surreal painting “The Persistence of Memory,” which depicts deformed objects like a watch.
Answer: Salvador Dali.
Fun Fact: Salvador Dali’s eccentric and flamboyant personality was as famous as his art, with “The Persistence of Memory” often interpreted as reflecting the fluidity of time and memory.
In which opera is a character called Cio-Cio-San featured?
Answer: “Madama Butterfly.”
Fun Fact: “Madama Butterfly” by Giacomo Puccini is a tragic opera that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and cultural clash, with Cio-Cio-San being one of the most iconic roles in soprano repertoire.
Who wrote the “Rugrats” theme song?
Answer: Mark Mothersbaugh.
Fun Fact: Mothersbaugh, co-founder of the band Devo, composed the “Rugrats” theme song, showcasing his talent in creating catchy and memorable music that appeals to both children and adults.
What song are these lyrics from, “Kick off the Sunday shoes / Please, Louise”?
Answer: Footloose by Kenny Loggins.
Fun Fact: “Footloose” became an anthem for rebellious youth in the 1980s, inspiring listeners to dance freely and break away from constraints, mirroring the film’s storyline.
What artist was the youngest to perform the national anthem at a major sporting event at age 11, has a son named Max, and won a 2004 Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance?
Answer: Christina Aguilera.
Fun Fact: Christina Aguilera’s powerful voice and vocal range have made her one of the most acclaimed singers of her generation, with numerous awards and a significant impact on the music industry.
Which Impressionist painter is famous for his painting called “Nympheas”?
Answer: Claude Monet.
Fun Fact: Claude Monet’s “Nympheas” (Water Lilies) series is one of the most famous and extensive in the impressionist movement, with about 250 paintings capturing the changing light and reflection on his pond in Giverny.
Paul Gauguin is a famous Post-Impressionist painter, but what job did he start his professional life with?
Answer: A stockbroker.
Fun Fact: Paul Gauguin’s transition from a stockbroker to a leading Post-Impressionist artist is a testament to his passion for art, showcasing a dramatic career change that influenced his unique style and artistic legacy.
Who composed the “Chariots of Fire” movie album?
Answer: Vangelis.
Fun Fact: Vangelis’s “Chariots of Fire” soundtrack is iconic, especially the opening theme, which has become synonymous with slow-motion scenes of athletic achievement and perseverance.
What is Billie Eilish’s full name?
Answer: Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O’Connell.
Fun Fact: Billie Eilish’s unique name reflects her family’s creative background, with each part of her name holding personal significance and contributing to her distinct identity as an artist.
What song features the lyrics, “You’ll say, ‘We got nothing in common / No common ground to start from’ / And we’re falling apart”?
Answer: “Breakfast At Tiffany’s” by Deep Blue Something.
Fun Fact: “Breakfast At Tiffany’s” became a hit in the 1990s, with its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics about trying to find common ground in a failing relationship.
Name the artist who grew quickly to fame in 2019, who played trumpet at school, left the University of West Georgia to focus on music, and went viral thanks to TikTok.
Answer: Lil Nas X.
Fun Fact: Lil Nas X’s breakout hit “Old Town Road” became a viral sensation, blending country and rap elements to create a genre-defying track that dominated the charts worldwide.
What is the full name of the abstract expressionist American painter Pollock?
Answer: Paul Jackson Pollock.
Fun Fact: Jackson Pollock’s drip painting technique revolutionized the art world, emphasizing the process of creation and the artist’s physical interaction with the canvas.
Challenging Religion and Mythology Trivia
A great round for family games night or a pub quiz, it’ll take a team to really tackle these tough trivia questions about religion and mythology.
What is Medusa’s hair made from?
Answer: Snakes.
Fun Fact: Medusa, one of the three Gorgon sisters in Greek mythology, was cursed so anyone looking directly at her would turn to stone, making her image synonymous with terror and petrification.
Who is the Greek goddess of autumn?
Answer: Demeter.
Fun Fact: Demeter, the goddess of the harvest and agriculture, is associated with the earth’s fertility. The changing seasons are tied to her joy and sorrow regarding her daughter Persephone’s time in the underworld.
Who is the god of mischief in Norse mythology?
Answer: Loki.
Fun Fact: Loki is known for his shapeshifting abilities and trickster nature, often causing chaos among the gods but also helping them, reflecting the complex Norse view of cosmology and morality.
Name the Abrahamic religion that was developed in Jamaica in the 1930s.
Answer: Rastafarianism.
Fun Fact: Rastafarianism combines elements of Christianity, Pan-Africanism, and mysticism, with a strong emphasis on the spiritual connection to Africa and the rejection of Western society’s materialism.
What year did immigrants start founding Presbyterian congregations in America?
Answer: 1630s.
Fun Fact: The establishment of Presbyterian congregations in America reflects the broader trend of religious diversity and freedom sought by European settlers, contributing to the pluralistic religious landscape of the United States.
How many books are in the New Testament of the Bible?
Answer: 27.
Fun Fact: The New Testament, written primarily in Koine Greek, forms the second part of the Christian biblical canon and outlines the life, teachings, and legacy of Jesus Christ and his early followers.
Name the Hindu god of rain and storms.
Answer: Indra.
Fun Fact: Indra, a prominent deity in Vedic texts, is the lord of the heavens and the bringer of rain, playing a key role in the cosmology and mythology of ancient Hinduism.
In Greek mythology, who was the first woman on Earth and given unique gifts by each god?
Answer: Pandora.
Fun Fact: Pandora, whose name means “all-gifted,” opened a jar (often mischaracterized as a box) releasing all evils into the world, leaving only hope inside, symbolizing the human condition’s complexity.
In Greek mythology, who was the rich but wicked king who was punished to be eternally thirsty and hungry?
Answer: Tantalus.
Fun Fact: Tantalus’s punishment in the underworld, where he was made to stand in water that receded when he tried to drink and with fruit just out of reach, is the origin of the word “tantalize.”
Persephone is the Greek Goddess of what?
Answer: Spring.
Fun Fact: Persephone’s return from the underworld each year is celebrated as the arrival of spring, symbolizing rebirth and the cycle of life and death in nature.
Name the Greek mythology creature that is part lion, goat, and snake.
Answer: The Chimera.
Fun Fact: The Chimera is a fearsome creature that combines features of multiple animals. It is often seen as a symbol of hybridity and the monstrous, embodying ancient fears and fantasies.
In the Bible, how many years did King David reign?
Answer: 40.
Fun Fact: King David, a central figure in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, is revered as a warrior, poet, and ideal king. His reign is considered a golden age in biblical history.
What is the second most practiced religion in the world?
Answer: Islam.
Fun Fact: Islam, founded in the 7th-century in Arabia by Prophet Muhammad, emphasizes monotheism and has a rich cultural and theological tradition, influencing vast regions and civilizations over the centuries.
In the Bible, what did King Herod’s daughter ask for on the King’s birthday?
Answer: The head of John the Baptist on a platter.
Fun Fact: The request by Herodias’ daughter, traditionally named Salome, led to one of the New Testament’s most dramatic moments, reflecting the intertwining of political and personal vendettas in biblical narratives.
What is the Buddhist term for the highest state of being — when a person is enlightened and suffering no more?
Answer: Nirvana.
Fun Fact: Nirvana in Buddhism represents the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, the liberation from the cycle of rebirth and the cessation of suffering, achieved through mindfulness, ethical conduct, and meditation.
Who is the Greek goddess of the rainbow?
Answer: Iris.
Fun Fact: Iris, the messenger of the gods and the personification of the rainbow, serves as a link between heaven and earth in Greek mythology, symbolizing hope and the connection between the divine and mortal realms.
The Greek goddess Athena was conceived without a mother. Therefore, how was she born?
Answer: She was born fully grown from her father, Zeus’s forehead.
Fun Fact: Athena’s unique birth, springing forth from Zeus’s head in full armor, symbolizes wisdom and strategic warfare, underscoring her role as the goddess of wisdom, courage, and warfare strategy.
Hard Geography Trivia
Next on our round of difficult trivia questions, it’s the geography round. Get ready for some random but super interesting questions about places all around the world. No maps allowed!
What is the highest mountain in Beijing at 2,303 meters above sea level?
Answer: The Dongling Mountain.
Fun Fact: Dongling Mountain is part of the Jundu Mountains and is renowned for its natural beauty, historical significance, and as a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities near Beijing.
What is the largest island in the Indian Ocean?
Answer: Madagascar.
Fun Fact: Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, is renowned for its unique biodiversity, with over 90% of its wildlife being endemic to the island, highlighting its evolutionary distinctiveness.
Name the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Answer: Sicily.
Fun Fact: Sicily has a rich history influenced by various cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans, making it a melting pot of art, architecture, and cuisine.
Name the Southeast Asian country east of Vietnam, which is about 115,831 square miles big.
Answer: The Philippines.
Fun Fact: The Philippines is an archipelago comprising over 7,000 islands, known for its diverse ecosystems, vibrant culture, and history of colonialism and resistance.
Name the four-letter country in Asia that starts with “L.”
Answer: Laos.
Fun Fact: Laos is known for its mountainous terrain, Buddhist monasteries, and French colonial architecture.
What is the smallest country in the world in terms of land area and population?
Answer: Vatican City.
Fun Fact: Vatican City, an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy, is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world by both area and population.
How many days of sunshine does Durango, Colorado, get per year?
Answer: 300.
Fun Fact: Durango, Colorado, is known for its scenic landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and historical heritage. Its high number of sunny days makes it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
What is the capital of New Hampshire?
Answer: Concord.
Fun Fact: Concord, the capital of New Hampshire, played a significant role in the state’s history. Its downtown area, featuring the gold-domed State House, is one of the oldest in the nation.
What is the abbreviation for Mississippi?
Answer: MS.
Fun Fact: Mississippi, named after the Mississippi River, which forms its western boundary, is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in music and literature. It is the birthplace of the Delta blues.
Where is the University of East Anglia located?
Answer: Norwich.
Fun Fact: The University of East Anglia, located in Norwich, England, is renowned for its creative writing program, which has produced numerous notable authors and literary figures.
Where is the world’s tallest tree?
Answer: Redwood National Park, California.
Fun Fact: The tallest tree in the world, named Hyperion, is a coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) in California, standing over 379 feet tall, making it one of the most impressive natural giants on Earth.
What is the second-largest ocean?
Answer: The Atlantic Ocean.
Fun Fact: The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest of the world’s oceans. It has a rich history of exploration, trade, and cultural exchange, significantly shaping the development of the adjacent continents.
What country was previously known as the Gold Coast?
Answer: The Republic of Ghana.
Fun Fact: Ghana, once known as the Gold Coast due to its abundance of gold, was the first African country to gain independence from colonial rule in 1957, leading the way for decolonization in the region.
What is the currency of Azerbaijan?
Answer: Manat.
Fun Fact: The Azerbaijani manat, reintroduced in 1992 after the fall of the Soviet Union, showcases the nation’s rich cultural heritage and history on its banknotes and coins.
What country is on the other side of France’s Rhine River?
Answer: Germany.
Fun Fact: The Rhine River is one of Europe’s major rivers. It serves as a key commercial waterway and a historical boundary between France and Germany, reflecting centuries of geopolitical dynamics.
Name the Scottish city in the Highlands, which is known for its famous lake and was only granted city status in 2000.
Answer: Inverness.
Fun Fact: Inverness, located in the Scottish Highlands, is often associated with Loch Ness and the legendary Nessie monster, attracting tourists and myth enthusiasts worldwide.
What country is part of Asia and Europe?
Answer: Turkey.
Fun Fact: Turkey’s unique geographical position, straddling both Europe and Asia, has made it a crossroads of civilizations and cultures, influencing its complex history and diverse cultural landscape.
What is the most populated city above the Arctic Circle?
Answer: Murmansk, Russia.
Fun Fact: Murmansk, located in the Arctic region of Russia, is the world’s largest city north of the Arctic Circle, known for its port that remains ice-free year-round due to the warm North Atlantic Current.
Hard Pop Culture Trivia
You made it to the final round of hard trivia questions. With answers, this round is excellent for adults and kids. While it’s still an advanced round, it’s a little bit easier because it’s more current. Let’s see how well you know your pop culture facts.
Who wrote the book that was turned into a TV show, “Big Little Lies”?
Answer: Liane Moriarty.
Fun Fact: Liane Moriarty’s “Big Little Lies” was adapted into a highly acclaimed television series that delved into the lives of three mothers in a suburban neighborhood, exploring themes of friendship, secrets, and domestic life.
What has Professor Jones’ student written on her eyelids in “Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark”?
Answer: “Love you.”
Fun Fact: This memorable scene from “Raiders of the Lost Ark” has become iconic, showcasing the blend of adventure and humor that characterizes the Indiana Jones film series.
Who was Kylie Jenner seen kissing at a Beyoncé concert in Sept. 2023?
Answer: Timothée Chalamet.
Fun Fact: The sighting of Kylie Jenner with Timothée Chalamet highlights the intense public and media scrutiny celebrities face, with their personal lives often becoming the subject of widespread speculation and interest.
What sitcom made the term “regift” famous?
Answer: “Seinfeld.”
Fun Fact: “Seinfeld,” known for its observational humor, coined many terms that have entered everyday language, with “regift” referring to the act of giving someone a gift that was previously received from someone else.
What year was “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” published?
Answer: 1997.
Fun Fact: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” marked the beginning of one of the most successful book series in history, captivating readers worldwide and igniting a global phenomenon around the Harry Potter universe.
The “Lord of the Rings” won four Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography, Best Makeup, Best Visual Effects, and what else?
Answer: Best Original Score.
Fun Fact: The “Lord of the Rings” film trilogy, known for its epic scale and faithful adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work, received widespread critical acclaim and has had a lasting impact on the fantasy genre in cinema.
Who won the first season of The Voice U.S.A.?
Answer: Javier Colon.
Fun Fact: Javier Colon’s victory in the inaugural season of “The Voice” showcased the show’s format of blind auditions and mentorship, differentiating it from other singing competition shows.
Who famously said, “Would you stop taking pictures of yourself? Your sister’s going to jail”?
Answer: Kris Jenner.
Fun Fact: This quote from Kris Jenner reflects the unique blend of personal drama and public spectacle that has characterized the Kardashian-Jenner family’s media presence.
Who was the 2023 TIME Person of the Year?
Answer: Taylor Swift.
Fun Fact: Taylor Swift’s recognition as TIME Person of the Year is a testament to her influence on music and culture, her advocacy for artists’ rights, and her impact on the global entertainment landscape.
What is the name of the Simpson’s friendly neighbor?
Answer: Ned Flanders.
Fun Fact: Ned Flanders, known for his devout Christianity and neighborly love, is one of “The Simpsons” most beloved characters, representing the show’s satirical take on American culture and family life.
Who was the winner of “American Idol,” season six?
Answer: Jordin Sparks.
Fun Fact: Jordin Sparks, who won “American Idol” at the age of 17, became one of the youngest winners in the show’s history. She then launched a successful music career.
What 2010 sci-fi film explored the concept of dreams within dreams?
Answer: “Inception.”
Fun Fact: “Inception,” directed by Christopher Nolan, is renowned for its intricate plot, innovative special effects, and exploration of the nature of reality and dreams, becoming a cultural touchstone in science fiction cinema.
Kim Richards, one of the main members on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” became a childhood star from what movie?
Answer: “Escape To Witch Mountain.”
Fun Fact: Kim Richards’ role in “Escape to Witch Mountain” showcased her early acting talent, leading to a successful childhood career in entertainment before transitioning to reality television.
Who did Idris Elba lose to for the 2011 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series?
Answer: Justin Timberlake.
Fun Fact: Idris Elba and Justin Timberlake have shown versatility in their careers, excelling in music, film, and television, illustrating the crossover appeal and talent in contemporary entertainment.
What country won the 2023 Cricket World Cup?
Answer: Australia.
Fun Fact: Australia’s cricket team, known for its competitiveness and skill, has a storied history in the Cricket World Cup, consistently being among the top-performing teams internationally.
How many Billboard Music Awards did Eminem win in 2002?
Answer: Three (Album of the Year, R&B/Hip-Hop Album of the Year, and Top 200 Billboard Album).
Fun Fact: Eminem, one of the best-selling music artists of all time, has garnered numerous awards throughout his career, reflecting his influence and success in the music industry.
What year was Netflix founded?
Answer: 1997.
Fun Fact: Netflix, originally starting as a DVD rental service, has transformed into one of the leading streaming platforms globally, revolutionizing how people consume entertainment and producing critically acclaimed original content.
