Q 01/05

In what year was the University of Southern California founded?

A) 1873

B) 1878

C) 1868

D) 1880

Answer · why

D) 1880

It opened with 53 students and 10 faculty, and its first graduating class in 1884 was three people, with a woman as valedictorian.

Q 02/05

Which judge led the effort to found USC, securing land and donations from early Los Angeles figures?

A) Robert M. Widney

B) Ozro Childs

C) George F. Bovard

D) Edward L. Doheny

Answer · why

A) Robert M. Widney

Widney Alumni House, built in 1880, is still the oldest university building in Southern California.

Q 03/05

USC was originally operated in affiliation with which church?

A) Methodist

B) Baptist

C) Episcopal

D) Presbyterian

Answer · why

A) Methodist

Until 1912 the athletes were even known as the Fighting Methodists or Wesleyans, names the university never approved.

Q 04/05

How many students were enrolled when USC opened its doors?

A) 24

B) 53

C) 40

D) 12

Answer · why

B) 53

There were 10 faculty; today enrollment is more than 47,000.

Q 05/05

What are USC's official colours?

A) Blue and gold

B) Scarlet and grey

C) Crimson and cream

D) Cardinal and gold

Answer · why

D) Cardinal and gold

Blue and gold belong to crosstown rival UCLA, whose fans have repeatedly painted Tommy Trojan in those colours.