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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. Which delegate moves to postpone the vote on ratification?

2. Why does Franklin believe foreign-born citizens are allowed to serve in Congress?

3. Why is a permanent location for the new government more important than it is for the old government?

4. Which delegate is vehemently against the idea of a standing army?

5. Why are Philadelphia's artisans and mechanics in favor of the Constitution?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is the Northwest Ordinance called the third great document of American history?

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

3. What underlying concerns are voiced during the discussion about the seat of a national government?

4. What is the Committee of Style and Arrangement?

5. 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?

6. Why is Jonathan Smith's speech powerful?

7. How are George Washington and James Wilson connected to the Western Territories?

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

9. What are the differences between living conditions along the Atlantic coastline and in the interior country or back land?

10. What are the arguments presented against including a Bill of Rights in the Constitution?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

By 1787, there are some distinctions between the viewpoints of Northern and Southern states. Identify three (3) issues where there are regional differences. Write a well-crafted essay that presents the regional perspectives on each each issue, identifying specific delegates and states if possible.

Essay Topic 3

Some people say that money makes the world go around. Write a well-crafted essay that details how economics and finance, including issues of trade and commerce, impact the Convention and the final Constitution.

(see the answer keys)

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