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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. In which decade is the novel "The Great Bridge" set?

2. How does John react to the news that his wife, Johanna, has passed away?

3. Which of the following subjects does John Roebling study in school as a teenager?

4. How long are the shifts Roebling's men endure on a daily basis?

5. Which of the following is NOT an engineering feat Roebling cites as an example of greatness in comparison to his bridge?

Short Essay Questions

1. At the age of 63, to what did John Roebling attribute his long life?

2. Why was John Roebling so devastated when his wife, Johanna, died?

3. What were some of the benefits of living in Brooklyn during the 1860's over living in Manhattan?

4. What lessons on love did Washington learn while away from his family?

5. Who was Kingsley, and how did he become involved in fund raising for the Brooklyn Bridge?

6. What happened during the "Great Blowout" in the river?

7. How does John Roebling find himself in the operating room in the first days of the Brooklyn Bridge's construction?

8. Why did the Rink Committee feel the need to form?

9. What alterations are made to the Brooklyn Bridge plans in the days before its commencement?

10. How was the fire in the caisson extinguished?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Before the bridge went into production, both Manhattan and Brooklyn were excited at its prospect. Briefly describe why each city was excited about the bridge, and what they hoped to gain from its construction. Then, explain how each city's view of the bridge changed as production labored on.

Essay Topic 2

While he was ill, Emily Roebling stood up and single-handedly saved production of the Brooklyn Bridge. Describe how Emily, who had no engineering experience, managed to maintain production of the bridge. Then, explain how the media felt about Emily's newfound power, and Emily's reaction the paper's speculations.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the course of their lives, the relationships between John Roebling's many sons went through a variety of changes. At some points the three were working well together, and at other points the three weren't speaking. Choose two moments of relational change between the brothers and explain the onset of that change. Then, explain why the relationship between the brothers changed so frequently, and what hidden jealousies they continued to have with one another, even into their old age.

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