50 Best 80s Trivia Questions

The 1980s were a decade filled with iconic music, fashion, movies, and events that continue to be a source of nostalgia and fascination for many.

Whether you lived through this colorful era or just want to test your knowledge about it, we’ve compiled 45 trivia questions about the 80s that will challenge your memory and take you on a trip down memory lane.

Let’s begin.

80s Trivia Questions

In 1981, a significant milestone in personal computing was achieved when a major American technology company launched its first personal computer. This computer, known for its user-friendly interface and significant impact on the home computer market, featured a version of the BASIC programming language in ROM. What was the name of this computer, and which company produced it?
In 1983, a famous sci-fi movie trilogy concluded its original run with the release of its third film. This movie introduced iconic characters and concluded the initial story arc of a battle between good and evil in a distant galaxy. Name the movie and the director who played a pivotal role in creating this legendary series.
In 1989, a pivotal event in world history occurred, symbolizing the end of the Cold War and paving the way for German reunification. This event involved the demolition of a concrete barrier that had divided a major European city since 1961. Name the event and the city where it took place.
In 1981, a new cable television channel was launched, revolutionizing the music industry by broadcasting music videos 24/7. This channel played a significant role in popularizing artists and trends in the 1980s. Name this channel and the first music video it aired.
In the early 1980s, a Japanese company released a video game that became a global phenomenon, featuring a character navigating through various levels to rescue someone from a giant ape antagonist. Name the game and its two main characters.
In 1981, a wedding took place that captured the attention of millions worldwide. This royal event in the United Kingdom was notable for its grandeur and the fairy-tale-like story of the bride, who became an icon of style and philanthropy. Name the bride and groom of this wedding.
In 1986, a catastrophic event shook the world of space exploration when a space shuttle broke apart shortly after liftoff, leading to a halt in shuttle flights and a reevaluation of space program protocols. Name the shuttle and one of its crew members, who was a civilian school teacher.
In the early 1980s, a global health crisis emerged with the identification of a new and deadly disease, initially associated with certain high-risk groups but later understood to be a widespread threat. What is the name of this disease, and in which year was it first clinically observed in the United States?
In 1986, one of the worst nuclear disasters in history occurred in the Soviet Union, releasing substantial amounts of radioactive materials into the atmosphere. Name the power plant where this disaster took place.
In 1980, an arcade game was released that became an instant hit, known for its simple yet addictive gameplay involving a character eating dots in a maze while being chased by ghosts. Name the game and its four ghost characters.
In 1982, a revolutionary product was introduced that changed the music industry forever, making music more portable and convenient. It was a compact version of a traditional music format and became immensely popular throughout the decade. What was this new music format called?
In 1980, a major international sporting event faced a significant boycott led by the United States. This boycott was in response to a military invasion by the Soviet Union in the previous year. Which sporting event was boycotted, and what country was invaded by the Soviet Union?
In 1980, the United States Congress passed a significant piece of environmental legislation aimed at cleaning up sites contaminated by hazardous waste. This act established a fund to clean up these toxic sites. What is the name of this act?
The 1980s saw the rise of home video recording and playback technology, with two formats competing for dominance. One format eventually won out due to its better marketing and longer recording time. What were the two competing formats, and which one emerged victorious?
In 1985, a dual-venue concert was held to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. This event featured performances by some of the most famous artists of the time and was one of the largest satellite link-ups and television broadcasts of the 20th century. What was the name of this concert?
In 1982, The Walt Disney Company expanded its theme park empire by opening a new park, distinct from its traditional theme parks. This park was dedicated to showcasing human achievement, particularly in technological innovation and international culture. What is the name of this park?
In 1982, the United States Supreme Court made a significant ruling regarding the rights of children to receive a public education regardless of their legal status. This case affirmed that states cannot deny education based on a child’s immigration status. What is the name of this landmark case?
The 1980s saw the rise of a home exercise program led by a charismatic fitness personality known for his energetic style, striped shorts, and curly hair. This program became a cultural phenomenon. Who was this fitness icon?
In 1983, the video game industry experienced a significant downturn in North America, leading to a massive drop in sales and the bankruptcy of several companies. This event is often referred to as the first major crash of the video game industry. What were the main causes of this crash?
In 1985, a significant discovery was made at the bottom of the North Atlantic Ocean. A famous ship that sank in 1912 was located, leading to renewed interest and research into its tragic story. What was the name of this ship?
In the 1980s, a pair of NASA spacecraft completed their unprecedented ‘Grand Tour’ of the outer planets, providing humanity with its first close-up views of these distant worlds. What were the names of these spacecraft, and which outer planets did they explore?
In 1987, a popular dance-themed film was released, capturing the essence of the era’s music and style. It featured memorable lines and an iconic lift scene. Name the movie and its two main stars.
In 1983, a major advancement in mobile technology occurred with the introduction of the first commercially available handheld cellular phone. Which company produced this phone, and what was the model name?
In 1985, a new leader came to power in the Soviet Union, marking the beginning of significant policy changes that eventually led to the end of the Cold War. Who was this leader, and what were the names of his policies of ‘openness’ and ‘restructuring’?
In 1984, a famous American soft drink company launched a groundbreaking advertising campaign during the Super Bowl, referencing a classic dystopian novel. The ad was for a new version of their flagship product. Name the company and the product.
In 1981, the United States Supreme Court appointed its first female justice. Who was this trailblazing woman?
In 1986, a significant political event occurred in the Philippines, leading to the end of a two-decade-long regime through a peaceful revolution. What was this event called, and which president was ousted?
In 1986, a major financial scandal rocked the City of London, involving illegal trading activities and leading to the collapse of a prominent bank. What was this scandal known as, and which bank was involved?
In 1986, a fantasy film featuring innovative animatronics and puppetry was released, directed by a famous puppeteer. The movie has since become a cult classic. Name the film and its director.
In 1983, a significant scientific breakthrough occurred, revolutionizing the field of genetics and forensic science. This technique allowed for the amplification of DNA sequences. What is this technique called?
In 1983, a groundbreaking television mini-series aired, depicting the lives of two families during the Nazi era and World War II. This series had a profound impact on public perception of historical events. What was the title of this mini-series?
In 1984, a short film demonstrated the potential of computer-generated imagery (CGI) in animation, leading to a revolution in the film industry. Which company produced this film, and what was its title?
In 1982, a world-renowned pop star released an album that became one of the best-selling records of all time. This album included hits like “Billie Jean” and “Thriller.” Who was the artist, and what was the name of the album?
In 1986, the first spacecraft to leave the solar system was launched, destined to explore the outer planets and then continue into interstellar space. What was the name of this spacecraft?
In 1987, an international organization was founded to focus on global health issues, particularly the emerging AIDS crisis. What is the name of this organization?
In 1985, a groundbreaking novel was published, capturing the spirit of the 1980s with its exploration of materialism and excess. This novel was later adapted into a successful film. What is the title of the novel, and who is the author?
In 1984, one of the worst industrial disasters in history occurred in an Indian city, causing thousands of deaths due to a gas leak. What was the name of the city, and which company was responsible?
In 1985, a Japanese company revitalized the video game industry with the release of a new console, along with a game featuring a now-iconic plumber. Name the console and the game.
In 1980, a long-standing hostage situation in a Middle Eastern country was resolved, with the hostages being released after 444 days. Which country was this, and who were the hostages?
In 1986, a major American television network was launched, targeting a younger audience with a focus on music, culture, and innovative programming. What was the name of this network?
In 1984, a science fiction film was released that spawned a popular franchise. It featured a cyborg assassin sent back in time. Name the movie and the actor who played the cyborg.
In 1983, the United States Congress passed a significant civil rights legislation to make the birthday of a famous civil rights leader a federal holiday. Who was this leader?
In 1982, a European country elected its first female Prime Minister, marking a significant moment in political history. Which country was this, and who was the Prime Minister?
In 1982, a groundbreaking multiplayer video game was released, becoming one of the first games to support online multiplayer via modem. What was the name of this game?
In 1987, an epic historical drama film was released, telling the story of a British soldier’s experience in a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. The film won several Academy Awards. What was the title of this film?
In 1983, a large-scale music festival in the United States featured performances by numerous legendary artists, marking a resurgence in popularity for blues and rock music. Name this festival.
In 1983, a Korean airliner was shot down by a Soviet fighter jet, escalating tensions between the East and West during the Cold War. What was the flight number of this airliner?
In 1987, an international agreement was signed to phase out the production of numerous substances responsible for ozone depletion. What is the name of this agreement?
In 1984, a significant computer was released that was known for its graphical user interface and mouse. This computer is often credited with popularizing the home computer market. What was this computer?
In 1980, a famous British rock band released a live album recorded in New York City. This album became one of the best-selling live albums of all time. Name the band and the album.

Answers

The IBM Personal Computer (IBM PC): Launched by IBM, it was known for its open architecture, which allowed third-party companies to produce compatible hardware and software.
“Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi”: Directed by Richard Marquand, but the series was created by George Lucas.
The Fall of the Berlin Wall in Berlin, Germany: This event marked a key point in the end of the Cold War and led to the reunification of East and West Germany.
MTV (Music Television): The first video aired was “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles.
“Donkey Kong”: The main characters are Mario (originally known as Jumpman) and Donkey Kong.
Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles: Their wedding was watched by an estimated global TV audience of 750 million people.
Space Shuttle Challenger: Christa McAuliffe was the civilian school teacher who tragically lost her life in the disaster.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome): It was first clinically observed in the United States in 1981.
Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant: The disaster occurred in Pripyat, Ukraine, which was then part of the Soviet Union.
“Pac-Man”: The four ghosts are named Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde.
The Compact Disc (CD): This new format allowed for higher-quality audio and greater storage capacity than vinyl records and cassette tapes.
The 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow: The boycott was in response to the Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan in 1979.
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as the Superfund Act.
VHS (Victorious) and Betamax: VHS won out due to its longer recording time and better marketing strategy.
Live Aid: It featured live performances from London and Philadelphia and was watched by an estimated 1.9 billion viewers in 150 countries.
EPCOT (Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow) at Walt Disney World in Florida.
Plyler v. Doe: This ruling declared that states cannot constitutionally deny students a free public education on account of their immigration status.
Richard Simmons: Known for his “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” series.
Overproduction of games, market saturation, and the rise of low-quality games, particularly the notable failure of Atari’s “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.”
RMS Titanic: Its discovery reignited public interest in the story of its sinking.
Voyager 1 and Voyager 2: They explored Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, providing invaluable data about these planets and their moons.
“Dirty Dancing”: Starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey.
Motorola DynaTAC 8000X: This phone marked the beginning of widespread mobile phone usage.
Mikhail Gorbachev: His policies were known as ‘Glasnost’ (openness) and ‘Perestroika’ (restructuring).
Coca-Cola: The product was “New Coke,” and the ad referenced George Orwell’s novel “1984.”
Sandra Day O’Connor: Appointed by President Ronald Reagan, she was the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court.
The People Power Revolution (EDSA Revolution): It led to the ousting of President Ferdinand Marcos.
The Guinness Share-Trading Fraud: It involved the collapse of the Bank of England and Guinness PLC.
“Labyrinth”: Directed by Jim Henson, known for his work with The Muppets.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Developed by Kary Mullis, PCR is a method used to amplify DNA sequences, making it easier to study and analyze genetic material.
“Holocaust”: This series provided an emotional and detailed portrayal of the effects of the Nazi regime on two families.
Pixar (then part of Lucasfilm), “The Adventures of André and Wally B.”: This short film showcased the potential of CGI in storytelling.
Michael Jackson, “Thriller”: This album set new standards for music production and music videos.
Voyager 2: It was launched to explore the outer planets and then proceed to interstellar space.
The World Health Organization’s Global Programme on AIDS (later UNAIDS): It played a crucial role in global AIDS awareness and prevention.
“Less Than Zero”, by Bret Easton Ellis: The novel captures the essence of the 1980s culture in Los Angeles.
Bhopal, Union Carbide Corporation: The Bhopal disaster is considered one of the world’s worst industrial catastrophes.
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), “Super Mario Bros.”: This console and game marked a significant revival in the video game industry.
Iran, American Embassy Staff: The Iran Hostage Crisis was a significant diplomatic standoff between the United States and Iran.
Fox Broadcasting Company: Known as Fox, this network introduced a new era of television programming aimed at a younger demographic.
“The Terminator,” Arnold Schwarzenegger: This film began the Terminator franchise, with Schwarzenegger playing the iconic role of the Terminator.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: The holiday celebrates the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent leader in the American civil rights movement.
Norway, Gro Harlem Brundtland: She was the first female Prime Minister of Norway, known for her progressive policies.
“Habitat”: Considered one of the first online multiplayer games, it was a technical and conceptual breakthrough in the early days of the internet.
“The Last Emperor”: Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, the film depicts the life of the last Emperor of China, Puyi.
The US Festival: This festival featured performances from artists like U2, David Bowie, and Van Halen.
Korean Air Lines Flight 007 (KAL 007): Its destruction heightened Cold War tensions between the Soviet Union and the United States.
The Montreal Protocol: This international treaty was designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of substances that are responsible for ozone depletion.
The Apple Macintosh: Known simply as the “Macintosh,” it introduced many to the concepts of a graphical user interface and mouse.
Pink Floyd, “The Wall – Live in Berlin”: This live album features performances from their famous “The Wall” concert series.