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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. On what charge was Tom Pendergast arrested, convicted and jailed?
(a) Tax evasion
(b) Polygamy
(c) Embezzlement
(d) Murder and rape

2. Which state turned the tide towards Truman at the convention?
(a) California
(b) New York
(c) Alaska
(d) Texas

3. Harry Truman travels to see Bess in Grandview. How many miles one way is the trip?
(a) One Mile
(b) Three hundred Miles
(c) Sixteen Miles
(d) Fifty Miles

4. What were the nicknames for the divisions in the Missouri Democratic Party?
(a) Hares and Turtles
(b) Donkeys and Elephants
(c) Goats and Rabbits
(d) Rats and Pigs

5. What was an overriding concern for Truman in his early years as a Senator in Washington?
(a) Hiring a maid for his house
(b) Getting caught with another woman
(c) Margaret's behavior in public
(d) Personal finances

Short Answer Questions

1. According to his letters to Bess, what part of Truman's command duties did he dislike the most?

2. What was the name of Roosevelt's beloved dog?

3. Where did the Truman family live until the Roosevelt family departed the White House?

4. What afflictions did Harry have in childhood?

5. What political party did Harry, his father, and most of the adults in Independence belong to?

Short Essay Questions

1. Although Harry did not partake in sports or outdoor activities as other boys, no one ever called him a "sissy." Why do you think that was?

2. Truman's job at the bank in Kansas City taught him about fiscal responsibility. How would this assist a potential president?

3. Reading over the description of Independence, MO, beginning on Page 50, describe Truman's hometown as it relates to 1) economic viability, 2) founders and citizens, and 3) education.

4. Some wives of politicians are active in their husband's campaigns and in D.C. social life to assist their reputations. Bess Truman was definitely not this type of political wife. Why do you think this is?

5. In the first chapter of the book, Truman's ancestors are the focus, and he does not enter the story until late in this chapter. Why would the author begin in this manner?

6. At one time, Truman had expressed a desire to attend West Point, but after his experience in war, he decided not to go. Why?

7. Compared to the Slaughter family farm, the Trumans were always broke. Why do you think this was so?

8. Was Truman adequately prepared to assume the role of President? If you choose to answer no, detail what attributes or knowledge Truman needed to do a good job. If you choose to answer yes, outline what qualities or experience Truman had to prepare him for the job.

9. Describe Harry's father and mother, using the following criteria: 1) appearance, 2) religious beliefs and upbringing, 3) admirable qualities, 4) values they can teach Truman to make him a good President, leader and man.

10. Why was it important for Truman to spend so much time as a new President with the funeral of Roosevelt?

(see the answer keys)

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