California is one of four states that have, at one point in their histories, declared themselves to be independent nations. What was the country of California called?

What was the first capital of the state of California?

Lassen Peak is one of three US volcanoes outside of Alaska and Hawaii that has erupted since 1800. When did it last erupt?

California voters chose Arnold Schwarzenegger to replace which governor in the 2003 recall election?

Who wrote, “You can take Hollywood for granted like I did, or you can dismiss it with the contempt we reserve for things that we don’t understand. It can be understood, too, but only dimly and in flashes.”

After Los Angeles, which is California’s second most populous city?

The California mission system was built between 1769 and 1823 for what purpose?

For several years, California’s “three strikes, you’re out” law (passed in 1994) was considered by legal analysts to be stronger than those of 26 states that followed. How?

Who referred to California’s Mojave desert as “Tierra el Muertos” ("Land of the Dead")?

Why is California’s nickname “The Golden State”?

California voters approved Prop. 187 – also known as the Save Our State (SOS) initiative – in 1994. What did it do?

Which arena was home to the Los Angeles Lakers during their world championships in the 1980s?

Which US president was born and is now buried in Yorba Linda?

In which California town did Nixon set up a Western White House on a 25.4 acre estate?

Which California region dried up during the past century after water was diverted to Los Angeles – a story featured in Roman Polanski's 1974 neo-noir film “Chinatown,” starring Jack Nicholson?

What small, inland, northern California town was made famous in a Credence Clearwater Revival song released in January 1969? The first verse goes: Just about a year ago, I set out on the road, Seekin' my fame and fortune, lookin' for a pot of gold. Things got bad, and things got worse, I guess you will know the tune. Oh! Lord, Stuck in _________ again.

Which is not in California?

Which of the following is not true of famed California naturalist John Muir?

Which famous southern California hotel opened in 1888 and was featured in the films “Some Like It Hot” with Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon, and Tony Curtis, and “The Stuntman” with Peter O’Toole?

In what area of California are bison (American buffalo) known to graze?

What body of water is known for its odd tufa formations and high salinity, which supports a species of brine shrimp that attracts millions of migratory birds?

Which statement about Californian extremes is true?

Hearst Castle, a 90,000-square-foot mansion built along the central coast, was built by William Randolph Hearst. How did he make his fortune?