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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. How does George Washington show his approval or disapproval of measures discussed at the Convention?

2. Which delegate wishes to establish a national university supported by Congress?

3. The delegates pass a motion that the official Convention papers are kept by whom?

4. What issue is most important for the states of Kentucky and Tennessee?

5. Which article, in the document presented by the Committee of Detail, alarms the Maryland delegates?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Randolph decline to sign the Constitution?

2. What is the Committee of Style and Arrangement?

3. What do Randolph and the other members of the Committee of Detail think are necessary elements for a well-composed Constitution?

4. In the discussion on ratification, why does Edmund Randolph announce that he dissents from the whole system?

5. How is Washington's character described by his contemporaries?

6. Why aren't the delegates upset by the idea of a monarchy as a form of government?

7. Why is the insertion of the phrase "We the People of the United States" considered to be both a bold move and a smart decision?

8. Why are test oaths an issue for the delegates?

9. Why is it difficult for the delegates to define treason?

10. What is the difference between the British and American views of the farmer during the eighteenth century?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the book, Bowen notes the importance of the written word for the delegates and for the final ratification of the Constitution. In a well-crafted essay, discuss the way writing is used to construct and present arguments about government and the Constitution before, during, and after the Convention.

Essay Topic 2

Of all the states, Virginia and her delegates hold some of the most prominent positions at the Convention. Why does Virginia have such a prominent part at the Convention? What evidence does Bowen provide to support your claim? In a well-crafted essay, discuss the ways that Virginia's delegates shape the final Constitution, including references to specific presentations, arguments, and decisions.

Essay Topic 3

The Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan are both proposed during the Convention discussion. Discuss how each of these treats the issue of representation, and compare their proposed solutions to the plan for representation presented in the final Constitution.

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