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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. Whose illegitimate child does Martha deliver in October of 1791?

2. Many historians consider Martha's diary to be _____________.

3. What did Dr. Page not understand?

4. Physicians often doubled as what profession?

5. Who was expected to provide all the items for the newlyweds' new home?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain why the summer of 1787 was very harrowing for the Ballard family.

2. In addition to being a midwife, Martha also had a weaving business. How did that get started?

3. How was Reverend Foster's wife, Rebecca, received in Hallowell?

4. What were the circumstances surrounding the rape of Rebecca Foster?

5. What details about each birth did Martha choose to exclude from her diary?

6. How did people perceive Martha in the community?

7. What were the typical courting practices in late 18th century America?

8. What was the pattern of new births in the year 1793?

9. How did Martha get started as a midwife in Hallowell?

10. How much detail did Martha include in her diary about each birth?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe Martha Ballard's life story beginning with her birth in Massachusetts in 1735. Who was her husband? How many children did she have? What were her primary professions?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the methods by which Martha would obtain her medicines. How do those methods compare to alternative medicines today?

Essay Topic 3

Describe the evolution of Martha and Eprhraim's marriage. Was the relationship always good? What was their communication style? Was there mutual respect and support?

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