America's Constitution: A Biography Historical Evidence

Which of the following excerpts from "America’s Constitution: A Biography" best illustrates the author's use of historical context?

• The journey began with a significant event. Citizens across a vast land would govern themselves for generations, under rules they would approve and could amend.

• Until these approvals were secured, the Constitution's text was merely a suggestion—a draft of an agreement yet to be finalized, the outline of a ceremony yet to occur.

• It was uncertain how the American populace would react to the various appeals.

• In the late 1780s, advocates of the Constitution achieved relatively straightforward approvals in states like Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, and Connecticut.

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What makes "America’s Constitution: A Biography" an example of a historical narrative used to argue a point?

• It asserts a viewpoint on a historical event and backs it up with evidence and specifics.

• It recounts a factual story of events that occurred and the real individuals involved.

• It examines the complete text of a foundational document in U.S. history.

• It highlights the precise words and actions of individuals who experienced a significant historical event.

What is the author's purpose in including the historical details in the following sentence from "America’s Constitution: A Biography"? After months of private discussions, the Philadelphia delegates revealed their collective proposal in mid-September, signed by notable figures such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and others.

• The author personalizes the narrative by offering various perspectives.

• The author reveals his political inclination towards the Constitution's approval.

• The author incorporates convincing elements to assure readers of the narrative's authenticity.

• The author provides concrete, verifiable evidence to support the main ideas presented.

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In "America’s Constitution: A Biography," the author notes that during the Revolutionary War, while states were drafting their constitutions, “conditions often made it impossible to achieve inclusive deliberation or scrupulous tabulation.” Which of the following best rephrases this statement?

• With the nation under attack, state governments couldn't draft, discuss, or vote on new constitutions.

• With the nation under attack, state legislatures chose not to allow public debate or voting on new laws.

• With the nation under attack, state governments couldn't hold discussions on new laws or count votes accurately.

• With the nation under attack, state legislatures were meticulous in holding debates and ensuring voting access.

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Based on the excerpt from "America’s Constitution: A Biography," which inference is most reasonable regarding the success of early American political leaders?

• Early American political leaders who engaged in intense political debate were unsuccessful.

• Early American political leaders frequently disagreed and struggled to reach consensus.

• Early American political leaders could have differing opinions and still achieve professional success.

• Early American political leaders encouraged the public to engage in vigorous political debate.

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"America’s Constitution: A Biography" states: “The ancient world had seen small-scale democracies in various Greek city-states and pre-imperial Rome….” What is the key difference between these ancient governments and the American government?

• Ancient democracies did not involve citizens in designing a government.

• Ancient democracies did not allow citizens to participate in debates.

• Ancient democracies did not elect competent leaders.

• Ancient democracies did not permit citizens to vote.

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Which sentence from "America’s Constitution: A Biography" best supports the claim that the US Constitution was the most democratic deed the world had ever seen?

• The esteemed English Constitution was a complex mix of institutions, laws, cases, customs, and principles that evolved over centuries.

• Before the American Revolution, no populace had ever explicitly voted on their own written constitution.

• With the word fiat, Wilson subtly referenced the opening lines of Genesis. In the beginning, God said, fiat lux, and—behold!—there was light.

• New state governments began to form, filling the gap left by the removal of George III.

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Which of the following statements from "America’s Constitution: A Biography" best demonstrates the author's use of historical evidence to support an argument?

• The Constitution was a groundbreaking document, setting a precedent for future governance.

• The ratification process was a complex negotiation involving various stakeholders.

• The Constitution's adoption marked a significant shift in political power dynamics.

• The Constitution was ratified by a series of state conventions, each with its own unique challenges.

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What is the primary purpose of the author in using historical details in "America’s Constitution: A Biography"?

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the historical context.

• To persuade readers of the narrative's credibility through evidence.

• To highlight the personal experiences of historical figures.

• To emphasize the political implications of historical events.

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Which of the following best describes the author's approach to analyzing historical events in "America’s Constitution: A Biography"?

• The author focuses on the chronological order of events.

• The author examines the motivations and actions of key figures.

• The author highlights the economic impact of historical events.

• The author emphasizes the cultural significance of historical events.

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