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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 is the name of the new organization of countries formed to keep the peace after the world war ends?

2. When Truman sends Harry Hopkins to talk to Stalin, he says "use diplomatic language or what?"

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

4. What US President did Truman see while he was working in Kansas City?

5. Why does Harry Truman leave his job in Kansas City?

Short Essay Questions

1. 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?

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

3. How did the atmosphere of defense contractor spending contribute to the Canol Project?

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

5. In campaigning, Truman is not a skilled orator, but people remember him. Why?

6. 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? .

7. Although money was always a problem for Truman, when given the opportunity to make millions at the expense of the government, he chose not to. Why?

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

9. Why did Roosevelt keep so many secrets from his Vice President? List your opinion regarding Roosevelt's 1) possession of power, 2) distrust of anyone other than his chosen circle, and 3) whether or not the president should keep some secrets from the rest of the world.

10. Read Part II of Chapter 5 again regarding Truman & Jacobson. Did the partners exercise good judgment in their selection of product, marketing and customers? Why do you think the store failed?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does the Truman Committee reinforce Truman's long-held belief that American large corporations are corrupt? Give specific examples.

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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