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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book One, The Development of Rome's Constitution, Sundry Reflections on the Kings of Rome, The Introduction of New Forms of Government, Ingratitude.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What are reasons Machiavelli cited for a group of people leaving their native country to seek a new home?
(a) Pestilence, famine or war.
(b) Overcrowding and social unrest.
(c) Family strife and lack of work.
(d) Racial conflict and economic injustice.

2. What are three reasons that Machiavelli gives for cities becoming unhappy?
(a) When cities face armed challenges from outside institutions, the courts do not act justly, and when leaders abuse their power.
(b) When taxes drain Plebes of their wages, when resources are not allocated equitably, and when Princes seek to expand their influence with wars.
(c) When cities are compelled to reorganize laws by themselves, when the laws diverge from their established institutions, and when the laws lead cities from the right path.
(d) When leaders drain resources to fight wars, when laws become tools for Princes to become more wealthy, when there is taxation without representation.

3. What did Machiavelli identify as the cause of conspiracy against a hereditary Princes?
(a) The larger population of citizens became unhappy with the the political preferences of the Princes.
(b) The general population became dissatisfied with the distribution of wealth.
(c) Less powerful people desired the power of the Prince.
(d) They degenerated from their fathers, and surpassed others in sumptuousness and lasciviousness and in every other kind of delight.

4. Of what should Princes be most ashamed in Machiavelli's view?
(a) Lacking their own soldiers for defense and offense.
(b) Being discovered to be self-absorbed and not devoted to building the strength of their cities.
(c) Missing opportunities to conquer other cities.
(d) Consuming his wealth in debauchery.

5. What does Machiavelli consider an important tool in maintaining the order of a Republic?
(a) The ability to control the perceptions of citizens.
(b) Wars that keep the citizenry focused on supporting the City.
(c) Proper administration of rewards and punishments.
(d) Fear of harsh administrators.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Machiavelli expect a city can keep its freedom after a weak Prince follows an excellent Prince?

2. Why does Machiavelli claim these forms of government developed?

3. What is the main point Machiavelli investigates as he prepares to discuss the affects of strong Princes and weak Princes?

4. Why does Machiavelli suggest that those who have received great rewards should not be spared punishments for acting badly?

5. What historical records did Machiavelli use to support his point for keeping two important items out of peril?

(see the answer key)

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