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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. Where did most of the sayings, such as "a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches", that were part of Truman's upbringing, originate?

2. When Roosevelt announces in 1944 that he will run for the fourth term as President, how many terms were Presidents allowed to serve?

3. How long was Truman & Jacobson in business?

4. What was Roosevelt's continuing admonition to his departments regarding defense production in 1941?

5. Which of Truman's commanders was the most unreasonable and was disliked the most by Truman?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do you think Truman was bored with any jobs other than politics?

2. This chapter is entitled "The Senator from Pendergast" and not "The Senator from Missouri." Why?

3. Senator Truman's committee to investigate defense spending was timely and changed the way he was viewed by his colleagues and the public. Was that his purpose in proposing this committee? Why do you think he started this effort, and did he accomplish his goals?

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

8. Why did the Kansas-Nebraska Act cause so much trouble in Missouri?

9. The title of this chapter is "Patriot". Why do you think the author chose this title?

10. 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?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Once Truman was introduced to politics back in Independence, Missouri, he knew he had found his career. In your opinion, was Truman a good politician? Address these topics in your essay: 1) political connections, 2) political strategy, 3) political decisions

Essay Topic 2

Chapters 1 and 2 of the novel describe Truman's ancestors, Missouri, his religious upbringing, education, interests and friends. Pick one of these subjects and prepare a presentation in the format of your choosing as to: 1) The impact on Truman's presidency, 2) how this set him apart from other politicians of his era, and 3) how it affected his decision making as a president and a politician.

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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