Cities in the United States are named after many things. Some take their names from people or ancient places; others reflect landforms, Native American terms, or even animals. Truth or Consequences, New Mexico—known throughout the state as “T or C”—has a different story. The town took its name from a popular 1950s radio show. On Truth or Consequences, contestants had only two seconds to answer a difficult trivia question before performing an embarrassing stunt. In 1950, the show’s host, Ralph Edwards, announced that he would broadcast from any town willing to rename itself after the program. The community of Hot Springs, named for its naturally hot mineral baths, saw an opportunity to market itself to the entire nation. Residents overwhelmingly voted to change the town’s name to Truth or Consequences.
The name change drew attention across the country. Because it was announced on April 1, many people assumed it was an April Fools’ joke. It was no joke, however. According to Edwards, the town was chosen because it “demonstrated a real friendliness for people and a desire to help mankind.” Until his death in 2005, Edwards returned each year to help celebrate the decision during a city-wide festival known as “Fiesta.” Usually held during the first week of May, Fiesta honors Edwards and features a parade, a beauty contest, and a stage show.
1. How did Truth or Consequences get its name?
2. How did the people of Hot Springs feel about their city’s name change?
3. Why did Hot Springs change its name to Truth or Consequences?
4. Which is NOT true about Truth or Consequences?
5. Which of the following questions is NOT answered in the passage?
6. The story of how Truth or Consequences got its name is ______.
7. What is the main difference between the first and second paragraphs?