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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. What was the original funding for the Truman Committee?

2. How many men and boys were killed in Quantrille's raid on Lawrence, Kansas?

3. For most of the people in Independence in the 1800's, who was their hero?

4. What does Harry give as a reason to join the military and go to war?

5. Who in Truman's family passes away in November of 1914?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. 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?

3. 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?

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

5. Truman's reputation as a fair but uncompromising leader is established during his chairmanship of the Truman Committee. Why?

6. Uncle Harrison is mentioned many times in the early chapters of the book as someone Truman admired and enjoyed. Why?

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

8. 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?

9. 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?

10. Was trench warfare a reasonable strategy of fighting a war? Why or why not?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

From all accounts, Truman was an excellent soldier and fearless leader during WWI. What skills do you think he took with him from this experience that would make him a good President? Cover these points in your answer: 1) his personality, 2) his courage, 3) his abilities to make decisions, 4) giving him an international rather than a small town American perspective.

Essay Topic 2

Why was Truman's method of campaigning so successful?

Essay Topic 3

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?

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