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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. In what year does the book begin?

2. What made Jefferson decide to accept a position in Paris?

3. With whom do Adams and George Washington meet in January of 1776?

4. What did Adams believe of the men gathered with him in Philadelphia?

5. Who do Abigail and Nabby encounter in Boston?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain Adams' education and entry into the profession of law.

2. What was Adams' relationship with John Quincy during this time?

3. How did Adams pass his time while on the voyage to France?

4. Explain the toll that Adams' work in Congress is taking on his personal life.

5. What were Adams' initial observations about Paris?

6. What were Abigail's overall impressions of Paris?

7. What are Abigail's first impressions of London after her arrival?

8. What were the three factions vying for power at the Second Continental Congress?

9. What happens to Adams just as he is about to give up his life as a public servant for the government?

10. How does Adams react when his ship is wrecked in a storm and he must be repaired in Spain.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain John Adams' life from birth through his marriage and his legal career. What were his parents like? What was his personality? What behaviors were instilled in him that would make him a success in his later life?

Essay Topic 2

John and Abigail had a powerful and loving marriage for many years. How did they maintain their relationship for so long? How did each manage through the many separations they were forced to endure? How can the power of love be so strong that it exists without any physical bonds? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Describe the poignancy of Adams and Jefferson both dying on the same day--the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Were there deaths a sign of divine approval and acceptance of the men as they were eulogized? Explain your perspective on the irony of the day's events.

(see the answer keys)

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