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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 Adlai Stevenson's position when he runs for President?

2. Why was it so important to create an Atomic Energy Commission?

3. What country's military is in possession of Potsdam at the time of the conference?

4. What was a whistle-stop?

5. What happens to Margaret after her father finishes her Presidential terms?

Short Essay Questions

1. In the issue of a President serving more than two terms, what is your opinion regarding 1) in agreement with the limit or 2) in opposition of the limit. Give at least three points for your argument.

2. Choose one of the following issues confronting Truman in this chapter: 1) Soviet acquisition of the atom bomb, 2) North Korea invading South Korea, 3) the Berlin Airlift, or 4) rise of Senator McCarthy. In your essay, outline how Truman and his administration handled the press regarding this issue. In your opinion, was the situation presented to the public in a good way?

3. The title for this chapter is "The Heat in the Kitchen." The author is referring to the intense pressures Truman experienced as he was also beginning his run for the presidency. List each of these pressures, and then describe how Truman dealt with them. When this report is done, write an essay outlining Truman's approach to dealing with issues, and whether or not you think his methods were appropriate.

4. When the Trumans take an automobile trip across the nation, they are shocked at how many people recognize them and want to see them. Why?

5. Roosevelt was unable to move without assistance, but Truman is a fast walker and a man who moves quickly and with determination. The Secret Service had to completely change their tactics to protect the President. How did this affect their procedures and organization? Do you think President Truman, based upon what you have read about him so far, was easy to work with regarding his movements around Washington DC?

6. When Truman is on a state trip to Mexico, he visits the grave of the child heroes. Why did this act mean so much to the Mexican people?

7. Truman's own party did not actively support him in his bid for the election, even through fundraising. Why?

8. Why was it so important for MacArthur and Truman to be in agreement on the military policy towards Korea and China?

9. In the 1960 election, Acheson admonishes Truman to be careful about what he says. How much influence can an ex-president have in future elections?

10. Why did Stevenson distance himself from Truman during the campaign for President? Was this wise?

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

Based upon what is reported in this novel regarding Japan's attitude towards surrender and the outcome of the war, would you have ordered the use of the atomic bomb?

Essay Topic 3

Harry Truman wanted to wait to marry until he had income and a future, and Bess waited patiently for years. Why do you think these young people did not just get married and live with family until they could move out on their own?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 900 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample