World Issues; Decade 2001-2010 Quiz

Answer: George W. Bush

The attacks occurred in New York City, Washington D.C. and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and led to 2992 people losing their lives. The Americans, with support from NATO, subsequently launched a campaign to combat terrorism with overseas wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Answer: Johannesburg, South Africa

During the meetings, Governments agreed to halve the number of people lacking clean drinking water and basic sanitation within three years. Other agreements included a plan of action for the poor to have greater access to affordable energy.

Answer: Saddam Hussein

Hussein was captured alive near his hometown of Tikrit. He was found hiding underground in a hole and was in a disheveled state. Saddam was subsequently tried in court and found guilty of the murder of 148 Iraqi Shiites, resulting in his execution in 2006.

Answer: Indian Ocean

The devastation affected fourteen countries, killing nearly a quarter of a million people and prompting a worldwide humanitarian response. The world as a result donated more than seven billion US dollars in aid. It was one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.

Answer: Pope John Paul ll

John Paul ll was regarded as one the most influential leaders of the 20th century. He was a key figure in ending Communism in his native Poland and eventually all of Europe. During his tenure the Catholic Church significantly improved relations with the other religions of the world.

Answer: Avian Flu

The Avian Flu was initially discovered 10 years earlier in China among their poultry. Through the years, isolated cases of animal to human infection were detected resulting in some deaths. Scientists have now developed a vaccine to combat this virus and concerns have abated.

Answer: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

This book was the seventh and last in a ten year run by author Rowling. The story line is centered around the long-awaited showdown between Harry Potter and Lord Voldemort. The book was released globally in 93 countries.

Answer: Japan

The core G8 member countries include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, UK, USA and the European Commission. Key issues discussed during this meeting were climate change and world economies.

Answer: Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson's death triggered a worldwide outpouring of grief. Many websites were crippled as a result of online reactions that pushed internet traffic to unprecedented levels. His subsequent memorial concert was also one of the most prominent of all time.

Answer: Iceland

The concern was that the volcanic ash could damage aircraft engines. Millions were stranded waiting to get on flights in and out of Europe. This was the biggest air-traffic shutdown since World War ll. After the intial shutdown for nine days, service was slowly restored to all areas within the following month.