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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. Which country becomes a focal point of disagreement between USA and the Soviets?

2. What job does Truman take between his judgeships?

3. What were the nicknames for the divisions in the Missouri Democratic Party?

4. How long was Truman & Jacobson in business?

5. What does Bess suggest when Harry announces his decision to join the military?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Truman's approach to the press so different from Roosevelt's?

2. 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?

3. What experience does Truman bring to this Senate investigation? Outline specifically which jobs he held in the past that would contribute to his ability to lead this important committee.

4. Re-read the account of the committee's hearings with Irwin Works, a steel producing plant. What is your opinion of Truman's tactics in determining the truth?

5. Harry Truman left his home and his country to defend another country's border. He mentions that "we owe it to Lafayette" - what does this mean?

6. Bess Wallace is considered "ideal" by Harry, and is well respected by the other children. What qualities does she display that make her ideal, and do you think she would be popular by today's standards?

7. The Mormons were not welcome in Missouri, although immigrants from all other states were allowed to settle. What were the fundamental differences in the approach the Mormons took to settle, and why was this so difficult for Missouri people?

8. Why do you think the land around Independence was called Blue River Country?

9. Tom Pedergast was considered a villain by some, and a Robin Hood by others. Why?

10. Truman was up against several other individuals for the position of Vice President. Why do you think he was the best candidate? Cover personal integrity, ability to gain votes, political record & experience, and life experience.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Why did Truman's streak of popularity with the American people begin to fail in this phase of his career, just before his second term of office?

Essay Topic 2

Why were Americans, and southern Democrats in particular, so opposed to the inclusion of minorities in the rights of other Americans?

Essay Topic 3

Truman's staff and administration changed when George Marshall was named as Secretary of State. List five reasons why this change happened.

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This section contains 664 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample