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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. According to Thompson's anecdote, in "February & March," where does McCarthy go to gain favor with the working class?

2. From "January, February, into March," what is the core conflict between Thompson and the politicians?

3. What campaign is Thompson covering in "Fear and Loathing: On the Campaign Trail '72?"

4. Despite the opinions politicians hold of the press, which of the following is not a trademark of Hunter S. Thompson (illustrating the man's indifference to what the politicians think of him)?

5. According to Thompson, what vote do the politicians generally look down upon?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Thompson's initial relationships with the other writers.

2. Why does Thompson encounter difficulty in becoming an official member of the press for the federal government?

3. In "January, February, into March," how does Thompson try to fit in with the politicians and press?

4. What are some characteristics of Thompson's writing?

5. What does Thompson say about his toenails, and why is it important?

6. Why do the consultants on the campaign think they need to involve Ted Kennedy?

7. How does Thompson explain the journalistic term "pitch?"

8. What is significant about the rumored "ten thousand naked hippies?"

9. How does Thompson discuss the progressively more open drug use amongst the journalists?

10. In "February & March," why is the 1972 Democratic Nomination campaign particularly stressful?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the difficulties faced by the Democratic party in this campaign in the following format:

Part 1) Vietnam War.

Part 2) John F. and Robert Kennedy.

Part 3) Eagleton's mental health history and resignation.

Part 4) Nixon's inner circle of people.

Part 5) The lack of unity amongst the candidates.

Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

According to Thompson, why is the Chinese symbolism of Yin/Yang important to the 1972 election? How does he define "yin?" How does he define "yang?" How does he apply these concepts to McGovern and Nixon? In what ways does Thompson note that this is part of the pendulum swing in American politics? How is the public support of Nixon indicative of McGovern's policies in 1972?

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast the Dakota Queen II and the Zoo Plane. How do the differences between the atmospheres of these two airplanes indicate that the end of the campaign is near? In what ways do their atmospheres signify the general mood of the campaign trail? Why do the journalists indulge as much as they do on the Zoo Plane? Why are all political personnel barred from flying on the Zoo Plane?

(see the answer keys)

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