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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. How many children did King George III of England have?

2. Who is appointed commander in chief of the new provisional army?

3. What near-fatal illness does Abigail contract?

4. In what state does Adams find Washington when he arrives?

5. What do Adams and Jefferson do to take a break from diplomatic matters?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain why the Alien and Sedition Acts were so critical at this time when war with France was possibly imminent.

2. How could Adams' creed for his life be summed up?

3. How were the Adamses met when they returned to Boston after living in Europe for so long?

4. What were Adams' plans after the end of his presidency?

5. What were the circumstances of Adams' leaving Washington on Jefferson's inauguration day?

6. Explain the speculation options for Adams' political future.

7. What were the circumstances of Abigail's death?

8. What did Adams observe about the new America that had emerged in his absence?

9. Explain the poignancy of the deaths of Adams and Jefferson.

10. What was John Quincy's relationship with his parents?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Thomas Paine wrote that "These are the times that try men's souls." Explain how the times also tried the souls of the women left behind to keep the homes intact and raise the children. Use Abigail Adams as a prominent example.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the role of letter-writing between John and Abigail. What is revealed by their letters? What can John not bring himself to say in the letters?

Essay Topic 3

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.

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