Reading comprehension (Test 43)

Multiple-choice quiz; Answer the following questions according to the text.

(Note: The text below will disappear once you start answering the questions; so, understand the text fully before answering. Also, the technique in reading comprehension tests is to read the questions first before reading the text.)

When Christopher Columbus set sail in 1492 from Spain, his destination was not America. In fact, he did not even know that the huge American continents existed. His purpose in sailing west was to reach the Indies faster than other ships which used a route around Africa. The Indies were a source of riches for Europeans during those days. The treasures of spices, silks, etc. were greatly valued by Europeans but were extremely difficult to obtain. When Columbus reached the islands that are now known as the West Indies, he believed he had reached Asia and he called the people living there "Indians."

In 1492 Columbus _____.
1. wished to go to America
2. started traveling towards Asia
3. traveled by way of Africa to Asia
4. wanted to become rich by sailing to America
5. was looking for the treasures of America
Spices, silks and other treasures _____.
1. were found around the world
2. were taken to Asia to be sold
3. were from the West Indies
4. from Asia, were brought to Europe
5. from Spain, were taken to the Indies
Columbus believed _____.
1. the destination for Europeans was Asia via America
2. Europeans should become rich
3. the riches of the West Indies were better than those of Asia
4. Spain could be reached via the Asian route
5. he was headed for India

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