Weekly History Quiz: Test Your Knowledge on Key Events from May 8-10

The week of May 10, 2025, marks significant historical anniversaries, including the completion of the U.S. transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, and Victory in Europe Day on May 8, 1945. Other notable events include the capture of Fort Ticonderoga on May 10, 1775, and Joan of Arc lifting the Siege of Orléans on May 8, 1429. The week also celebrates the birthdays of figures like Fred Astaire and Bono. A history quiz challenges readers on these events, focusing on May 8–10 across centuries.

The Golden Spike and the Birth of a Nation’s Connectivity

On May 10, 1869, a ceremonial golden spike was driven into the ground at Promontory Summit, Utah Territory, marking the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States. This engineering feat connected the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads, linking the East and West coasts for the first time by rail. The event symbolized a new era of American expansion and economic growth, reducing coast-to-coast travel time from months to mere days.

The ceremony was attended by railroad officials and dignitaries, and telegraph wires transmitted the news across the country in real time. The spike itself, made of 17.6-karat gold, was driven by Leland Stanford, president of the Central Pacific Railroad. This moment remains a cornerstone of American industrial history.

Revolutionary Beginnings: Fort Ticonderoga Captured

Nearly a century earlier, on May 10, 1775, Ethan Allen and his Green Mountain Boys, alongside Benedict Arnold, captured Fort Ticonderoga in New York from the British. This early victory in the American Revolutionary War provided the Continental Army with much-needed artillery, which was later transported to Boston to help end the British siege.

The capture was swift and largely bloodless, but its strategic importance was immense. It marked one of the first offensive actions by American forces and helped galvanize support for the revolutionary cause.

May 8, 1945: Victory in Europe Day

One of the most significant anniversaries this week is May 8, 1945—Victory in Europe Day (VE Day). On this day, Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender to the Allied forces took effect, officially ending World War II in Europe. Celebrations erupted across the continent and in the United States, as millions rejoiced in the end of a conflict that had claimed tens of millions of lives.

In Berlin, the German Instrument of Surrender had been signed the day before, but it was on May 8 that the ceasefire became official. The day is still commemorated annually in many European countries, including the Czech Republic, where it is observed as Liberation Day.

Joan of Arc’s Turning Point: Siege of Orléans Lifted

Going further back in time, May 8, 1429, marked a turning point in the Hundred Years’ War when Joan of Arc led French forces to lift the Siege of Orléans. This victory was a major morale boost for the French and helped solidify Joan’s reputation as a divinely inspired leader. Her success at Orléans paved the way for the coronation of Charles VII and shifted the momentum of the war in France’s favor.

Sports History: Championships and Milestones

May 10 has also been a landmark date in the world of sports. The month of May traditionally signals the start of championship season in North America, and several NBA and NHL titles have been decided on this date. While specific championship games vary by year, May 10 has seen unforgettable performances and record-breaking moments.

For instance, in past decades, the NBA Finals and Stanley Cup Playoffs have both featured decisive Game 7s on this date. The day is also remembered for individual athletic achievements, such as career milestones and playoff heroics.

Famous Birthdays: Icons Born on May 10

This week also celebrates the birthdays of numerous influential figures across politics, entertainment, and sports.

Fred Astaire (1899–1987): The legendary dancer, singer, and actor was born on May 10. Known for his work in classic Hollywood musicals, Astaire’s influence on dance and film remains unmatched.
John Wilkes Booth (1838–1865): The infamous assassin of President Abraham Lincoln was also born on this day.
Pat Summerall (1930–2004): A former NFL player turned iconic sportscaster, Summerall was born on May 10 and became a familiar voice in American football broadcasting.
Bono (Paul Hewson, b. 1960): The lead singer of U2, Bono has been a global music icon and activist for decades.
Missy Franklin (b. 1995): The Olympic gold medalist swimmer turns 30 this year. Franklin won five Olympic medals, including four golds, at the 2012 London Games.
Ryan Getzlaf (b. 1985): The NHL All-Star and longtime Anaheim Ducks captain also celebrates his 40th birthday today.

Other notable May 10 birthdays include reggae musician Sly Dunbar, singer Donovan, and actor Bruce Penhall.

Cultural and Global Observances

May 8 is also recognized globally for several observances:

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day: Celebrated in honor of the birth of Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross.
Parents’ Day in South Korea and Liberation Day in the Czech Republic.
Truman Day in Missouri, honoring President Harry S. Truman, who announced Germany’s surrender in 1945.

Quiz Time: Test Your Knowledge

To commemorate these events, here are five quiz questions to challenge your historical knowledge:

What year was the golden spike driven to complete the first U.S. transcontinental railroad?
- A) 1859
- B) 1869
- C) 1879
- D) 1889
Who led the American forces in the capture of Fort Ticonderoga on May 10, 1775?
- A) George Washington
- B) Benedict Arnold and Ethan Allen
- C) Thomas Jefferson
- D) John Adams
What major event occurred on May 8, 1945?
- A) D-Day landings
- B) Pearl Harbor attack
- C) Victory in Europe Day
- D) Hiroshima bombing
Which French heroine lifted the Siege of Orléans on May 8, 1429?
- A) Marie Antoinette
- B) Catherine de' Medici
- C) Joan of Arc
- D) Eleanor of Aquitaine
Which Olympic swimmer, born on May 10, 1995, won four gold medals at the 2012 London Olympics?
- A) Katie Ledecky
- B) Missy Franklin
- C) Natalie Coughlin
- D) Simone Manuel