American Buildings

Isaac Asimov's Super Quiz

Published Saturday, June 13, 2009

Subject: AMERICAN BUILDINGS
(e.g., The official residence of the U.S. president. Answer: The White House.)

FRESHMAN LEVEL

1. Completed in 1931, it was the world's tallest building for 40 years.
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2. San Antonio's famous "mission."
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3. It surpassed the World Trade Center to become the tallest U.S. building.
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4. It serves as the seat of government for the U.S. Congress.
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5. It is the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense.
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GRADUATE LEVEL

6. This California mansion was under construction for 38 continuous years.
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7. Though in New York City, the land it occupies is considered "international territory."
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8. This triangular Manhattan tower was one of the first skyscrapers.
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9. This museum complex is nicknamed "America's Attic."
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10. This palatial estate in San Simeon, Calif., was built by a newspaper magnate.
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PH.D. LEVEL

11. This Frank Lloyd Wright house reputedly inspired Ayn Rand's "The Fountainhead."
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12. It is the largest privately owned home in the United States.
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13. Located near Charlottesville, Va., it was the estate of Thomas Jefferson.
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14. The de facto national library of the United States.
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15. This art deco skyscraper was the world's tallest building for 11 months.
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ANSWERS:
1. The Empire State Building.
2. The Alamo.
3. The Sears Tower.
4. U.S. Capitol building.
5. The Pentagon.
6. The Winchester Mystery House.
7. The United Nations Headquarters.
8. Flatiron Building.
9. Smithsonian Institution.
10. Hearst Castle.
11. Fallingwater.
12. Biltmore Estate.
13. Monticello.
14. The Library of Congress (three buildings).
15. The Chrysler Building.