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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 event takes American by surprise in 1789?

2. What U.S. institution is established in 1800?

3. What did Abigail say she felt like when setting out to join John in Philadelphia?

4. What was a main topic of discussion among New Englanders during 1814?

5. What is the name of the Adamses new grandchild born to John Quincy and Louisa Catherine Adams?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain why keeping peace was a guiding principle for Adams in his presidency?

2. What were the personal and professional losses Adams experienced in the fall of 1800?

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

4. What was the state of the country when Adams turned it over to Jefferson?

5. What event prompts Abigail to write to Jefferson after 17 years of silence?

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

7. What were the major challenges that faced Adams in his position as diplomat in London?

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

It is widely believed that Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence when in actuality he was part of a team of five men assigned to the task. Who were the other men charged with creating this document along with Jefferson? Why were they selected? How did they work together?

Essay Topic 2

Myths and legends have always surrounded the stories of the Founding Fathers of the United States. How does McCullough's book dispel or validate any such predisposed thoughts. Cite examples of which men are viewed a little differently after reading this book.

Essay Topic 3

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?

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