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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 is the last major issue Convention delegates consider?

2. Why is the Province of Maine worried about the new Constitution?

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

4. Which delegate leaves the Convention early, later saying he wishes he returns to vote 'no' on the Constitution?

5. What is the purpose of the Committee of Detail?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. Why do the delegates vote against adding the Bill of Rights to the Constitution?

4. Why is slavery an issue at the Convention?

5. What is the Committee of Style and Arrangement?

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

7. What is the basis for the arguments presented by the Anti-federalists in Massachusetts?

8. What do Randolph and the other members of the Committee of Detail think are necessary elements for a well-composed Constitution?

9. What is the difference between the British and American views of the farmer during the eighteenth century?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan are both proposed during the Convention discussion. Discuss how each of these treats the issue of representation, and compare their proposed solutions to the plan for representation presented in the final Constitution.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the book, Bowen notes the importance of the written word for the delegates and for the final ratification of the Constitution. In a well-crafted essay, discuss the way writing is used to construct and present arguments about government and the Constitution before, during, and after the Convention.

Essay Topic 3

Convention delegates have multiple procedures for ensuring every delegate has a chance to express their ideas, concerns, and opinions. One procedure permits delegates to re-open, re-examine, and re-vote on issues that previously are decided. Choose an issue delegates re-consider after a vote. In a well-crafted essay, present the initial discussion and decision, the reason for re-examination, the second decision, and reasons for a change in the decision, if appropriate. Is the re-consideration prompted by someone who initially expresses a dissenting opinion with the majority vote or is there a change in sentiment by the delegate? Does the re-examination have an impact on the final version of the Constitution? If so, what is it? Include evidence to support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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