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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. Who fires first in the duel between Hamilton and Burr?

2. With whom does Jefferson consider a deal to buy the Floridas for $2 million?

3. The plot to liberate Texas from Mexico, also included the plan to allow Texas to claim what areas?

4. What event happens in December, 1835 that bankrupts the insurance companies?

5. Who initially identified Charlie as the murderer?

Short Essay Questions

1. How much is the publisher to which Sam Swartwout introduces Charlie willing to pay for Burr's memoirs, and what are the stipulations?

2. What does Burr find out about Wilkinson's true occupation and what does this discovery mean?

3. What does Leggett say about publishing the pamphlet as he lays sick in bed?

4. In June of 1808, what disguise does Burr adopt, where does he go, and how long does he stay?

5. How does Charlie respond when Mr. Bryant tells him not to publish the pamphlet, and what effect does this response have on Byrant?

6. Why is a letter Wilkinson wrote Burr used in his trial and what does Wilkinson attempt to do to the letter?

7. What does Van Buren tell Charlie about Burr when Charlie visits the White House?

8. How does Burr feel about the Constitutional power given to the President? What other ideas does he have about the Constitution?

9. What does the Constitution stipulate regarding treason trials, and how does this affect Jefferson's case against Burr?

10. When and why does Burr surrender to the governor of the Mississippi Territory?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay in which you explore how parallel episodes in the novel affect the story (for example, Burr and Houston's conquest of Texas/Mexico, or the court cases in the deaths of Helen Jewett and Elma Sands).

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay exploring the role that texts play in the novel.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay in which you examine the idea of fate vs. choice in the novel. Which seems to be a more influential force?

(see the answer keys)

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