Why did people use smudge pots under their tables?

(Fire at a pioneer house, South Florida, ca. 1880s, Credit: HistoryMiami)

When people first started to settle in Miami air conditioning had not been invented.  In order to keep cool during the hot summers people would need to open all the doors and windows.  The early settlers would also need to use smudge pots under their dining room tables.

 

A: To keep the mosquitos away.

What year did a hurricane destroy Henry Flagler’s Rail Road to the Keys?

(Rail road without tracks, Florida Keys, ca. _____, Credit: HistoryMiami)

Hurricanes form in the warm water off the coast of Africa and move west across the Atlantic Ocean.  Because of Florida’s geographic location the state can be in the path of these storms.  More powerful hurricanes can produce large storm surges and winds over 100mph, destroying everything in its path.

A: 1935

What port city did many United States troops, including future president Theodore Roosevelt, depart for duty in Cuba from?

 

(Rough Riders encamped at San Juan Hill, San Juan, Cuba, ca. 1898, credit: HistoryMiami)

In 1898 the United States went to war with Spain.  The United States had joined the fight against Spain in Cuba, in Cuba’s fight for independence.  At the time Florida was known for its connections to Cuba, and it was also the closest state to the fighting.  Therefore, Florida became a staging area for many troops leaving for Cuba.

A: Tampa

According to Florida law makers, who was able to vote in Florida following the Civil War?

 

(Counting the vote, Tallahassee, FL, 1876.  Credit: HistoryMiami)

After the Civil War the United States entered an era we now call Reconstruction.  During this time the Federal Government passed many new laws concerning freed slaves. One of the most controversial laws passed by the Reconstruction Congress was the 15^th Amendment.  However, many states wanted to create their own laws concerning voting.

A: White males