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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is the last major issue Convention delegates consider?
(a) The procedure for electing a President.
(b) The method for electing state legislatures.
(c) The way the states are represented in the new legislature.
(d) The way the Constitution is ratified.

2. According to Roger Williams, what is the principle at the heart of constitutional government?
(a) The pursuit of happiness.
(b) The abolition of slavery.
(c) The civil power, with people consenting and agreeing.
(d) Equal representation for states.

3. Which delegate makes the motion that an address to the people accompanies the Constitution?
(a) Charles Pinckney.
(b) Elbridge Gerry.
(c) Alexander Hamilton.
(d) Rufus King.

4. What is the purpose of the Committee of Detail?
(a) To keep a clear record of all the votes on the issues.
(b) To put Convention resolves, amendments, and suggestions into a workable document.
(c) To publish the final proceedings of the Convention in a format everyone understands.
(d) To offer suggestions about issues that are not yet considered.

5. Which delegate is vehemently against the idea of a standing army?
(a) James Madison.
(b) Ellsworth.
(c) Governor Morris.
(d) Elbridge Gerry.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Widgery do after the Constitution is ratified by the Massachusetts Convention?

2. On the last day, which delegate states he is determined to withhold his name from the Constitution?

3. Why is a permanent location for the new government more important than it is for the old government?

4. Which delegate wishes to establish a national university supported by Congress?

5. According to Edmund Randolph, what is the purpose of a preamble?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Washington's character described by his contemporaries?

2. In the discussion on ratification, why does Edmund Randolph announce that he dissents from the whole system?

3. Why does Randolph decline to sign the Constitution?

4. What is Thomas Jefferson's reaction to the Constitution?

5. Why does Franklin argue that delegates approve the Constitution even if they have objections?

6. What underlying concerns are voiced during the discussion about the seat of a national government?

7. Why is Jonathan Smith's speech powerful?

8. What are James Wilson's arguments in favor of allowing foreign-born Americans to participate in government?

9. What arguments do the Anti-federalists use in their opposition to the Constitution?

10. Why aren't the delegates upset by the idea of a monarchy as a form of government?

(see the answer keys)

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