View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Harry Truman always carried a favorite poem in his wallet. What was that poem and the author?

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

3. In 1841, what was considered the extreme frontier of the USA?

4. Which of Roosevelt's policies did Truman support the most enthusiastically?

5. What was a dollar-a-year man?

Short Essay Questions

1. Truman is placed in charge of one of the most unruly battery divisions in the Army, yet he forms them into one of the most efficient and admired in his Battalion. How did he do this? .

2. 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?

3. Re-read the section on U.S. Steel's involvement in manufacturing and supplying the Navy with defective steel. What was their motivation for this deception? How did they rationalize it with the Truman Committee? In their opinion, was the action of the US Steel Company right or wrong?

4. 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.

5. 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?

6. The author entitled Chapter 8 "Numbered Days." Whose days are being referred to here?

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

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

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. 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?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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

Essay Topic 2

Compare the presidency of Truman with that of Roosevelt, Lincoln and Jackson, with regard to challenges during term, character, decision making abilities, and family values.

Essay Topic 3

The title of Chapter 17 is Final Days. How did Truman view his term as President, and what accomplishments do you think he was most proud of?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 732 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample