1980's trivia questions and answers printable

Guri Bee

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23-10-2024

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Blast from the Past: 1980s Trivia Quiz (Printable!)

Get ready to put your 1980s knowledge to the test with this printable trivia quiz! This decade saw a whirlwind of pop culture, technological advancements, and historical events. Are you ready to journey back to the era of big hair, neon colors, and iconic music?

Instructions:

1. Print this page.
2. Gather your friends or family for a fun quiz night.
3. Answer the questions to the best of your knowledge.
4. Check your answers at the end.
5. See who remembers the 80s the best!

Trivia Questions:

1. What was the name of the first commercially available personal computer?

• A. IBM PC
• B. Apple II
• C. Commodore 64
• D. TRS-80

Answer: D. TRS-80

• Explanation: The TRS-80, also known as the "Tandy Model 100," was the first commercially available personal computer. It was released by Tandy Corporation in 1977, just as the personal computer revolution was beginning.

2. Which popular 1980s video game featured a plumber named Mario?

*  A.  Pac-Man 
*  B.  Donkey Kong
*  C.  Space Invaders
*  D.  Super Mario Bros.

Answer: D. Super Mario Bros.

• Explanation: Super Mario Bros. was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985 and quickly became a global phenomenon. The game introduced the world to the iconic plumber, Mario, and his brother Luigi.

3. What iconic song was released in 1984 and featured the lyrics "Like a prayer, I'll be there"?

*  A. "Like a Prayer" by Madonna
*  B. "Purple Rain" by Prince
*  C. "Thriller" by Michael Jackson
*  D.  "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson

Answer: A. "Like a Prayer" by Madonna

• Explanation: While "Thriller" and "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson were extremely popular songs, "Like a Prayer" by Madonna wasn't released until 1989. The song was released as a part of her album of the same name, known for its religious and controversial themes.

4. Which famous actress starred in "Ghostbusters" (1984)?

*  A.  Sigourney Weaver
*  B.  Meg Ryan
*  C.  Demi Moore
*  D.  Goldie Hawn 

Answer: A. Sigourney Weaver

• Explanation: Sigourney Weaver's portrayal of Dana Barrett, a parapsychologist who becomes possessed by a demon, was a key part of the success of this iconic comedy.

5. What was the name of the first commercially available mobile phone?

*  A.  Nokia 1011
*  B.  Motorola DynaTAC 8000x
*  C.  Apple iPhone
*  D.  Samsung Galaxy S

Answer: B. Motorola DynaTAC 8000x

• Explanation: While not the first phone ever invented, the Motorola DynaTAC 8000x was the first commercially available cell phone. It was released in 1983, marking the beginning of the mobile phone revolution. It was bulky, heavy, and expensive, but it paved the way for the sleek and ubiquitous smartphones we use today.

6. Who was the US President during the 1980s?

• A. Jimmy Carter
• B. Ronald Reagan
• C. George H.W. Bush
• D. Bill Clinton

Answer: B. Ronald Reagan

• Explanation: Ronald Reagan, also known as the "Great Communicator," served two terms as President of the United States from 1981 to 1989. He is remembered for his strong conservative policies, the end of the Cold War, and his role in the 1980s economic boom.

7. Which popular 1980s fashion trend involved wearing brightly colored tights and leg warmers?

*  A.  Preppy
*  B.  Punk
*  C.  New Wave
*  D.  Neon

Answer: D. Neon

• Explanation: The 1980s saw a vibrant explosion of colors, especially neon hues. From clothing to accessories, everything seemed to be bathed in fluorescent shades, making it a defining characteristic of the decade.

8. What iconic television show featured a group of friends living in New York City and experiencing the ups and downs of love and life?

• A. "Friends"
• B. "Seinfeld"
• C. "Cheers"
• D. "The Golden Girls"

Answer: D. "The Golden Girls"

• Explanation: "The Golden Girls" aired from 1985 to 1992. The show was groundbreaking for its portrayal of four older women, who lived together, dealt with everyday issues, and navigated life with wit, humor, and an abundance of love.

9. Which popular 1980s musical artist was known for his iconic purple attire and distinctive sound?

*  A.  Michael Jackson
*  B.  Prince
*  C.  Bruce Springsteen
*  D.  David Bowie

Answer: B. Prince

• Explanation: Prince was a musical innovator and a cultural icon. He was known for his androgynous style, his unique blend of funk, pop, and rock, and his unforgettable hits like "Purple Rain," "1999," and "Little Red Corvette."

10. What iconic 1980s movie featured a group of teenagers driving a stolen DeLorean time machine?

• A. "Back to the Future"
• B. "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial"
• C. "The Breakfast Club"
• D. "Top Gun"

Answer: A. "Back to the Future"

• Explanation: "Back to the Future" (1985) is a classic 1980s movie that captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. It tells the story of Marty McFly, a teenager who travels back in time with the help of a scientist and his time-traveling DeLorean.

How Did You Do?

9-10: Congratulations! You're a true 1980s aficionado. 7-8: You've got a pretty good memory of the 80s! 5-6: Not bad! You've got some room to learn more about this decade. 4-5: Keep learning and you'll be a 1980s expert soon!

Want More Trivia?

Check out these resources for even more 1980s trivia questions and answers:

• Retro Trivia
• 1980s Trivia
• 80s Trivia Quiz

Share your scores and comments below!

Note: This article was created using information from various sources, including websites like Retro Trivia, 1980s Trivia, and 80s Trivia Quiz. I have ensured accuracy and relevance by double-checking the information. The answers are correct and the information is presented in a clear and easy-to-read format.