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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Bowen describe as Madison's strength?

2. Which delegate wishes to establish a national university supported by Congress?

3. What is the last major issue Convention delegates consider?

4. Why are Philadelphia's artisans and mechanics in favor of the Constitution?

5. What does Congress do eight days after receiving the Constitution?

Short Essay Questions

1. What arguments do the Anti-federalists use in their opposition to the Constitution?

2. Why is it difficult for the delegates to define treason?

3. How is Washington's character described by his contemporaries?

4. Why does Randolph decline to sign the Constitution?

5. Why is slavery an issue at the Convention?

6. What is Thomas Jefferson's reaction to the Constitution?

7. Why does Franklin argue that delegates approve the Constitution even if they have objections?

8. What are James Wilson's arguments in favor of allowing foreign-born Americans to participate in government?

9. What is the basis for the arguments presented by the Anti-federalists in Massachusetts?

10. Why is the insertion of the phrase "We the People of the United States" considered to be both a bold move and a smart decision?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Some people say that money makes the world go around. Write a well-crafted essay that details how economics and finance, including issues of trade and commerce, impact the Convention and the final Constitution.

Essay Topic 2

Where does the power reside in the relationship between the people and the government? In a well-crafted essay, compare the way the Articles of Confederation, the Virginia Plan, the New Jersey Plan, and the Constitution all answer that question. What are the reasons for the different responses? How is the final choice for the Constitution made?

Essay Topic 3

The delegates to the Convention brig with them vivid memories of the recent events that accompany their separation from England. Their memories and feelings help shape the Constitution. Choose three historical events mentioned in Bowen's text and describe how each event is viewed by the delegates, as well as how the memory of the event influences delegates in their construction of the Constitution.

(see the answer keys)

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