This examination is in two parts. The first part addresses the era of the American Revolution. The second part moves from the nation’s founding toward the Civil War. As you consider how to respond, remember that you will not do well in the exam without showing clear, concrete evidence that you are in command of the readings. You MUST use and refer to those readings to defend general statements. Otherwise, I won’t be able to evaluate your understanding of course materials.
When using other people’s words or ideas, create footnotes or put the source and page number in parentheses. We have had some trouble with plagiarism. I chose not to impose harsh penalties and instead issued warnings. But I will be less tolerant now. Plagiarism can be ground for expulsion from university. So don’t copy, and do NOT consult sources beyond those given on the syllabus. Do your own thinking and writing.
Part 1:
Why exactly did 18th-century British colonists find themselves resisting and then revolting against British imperial authority after about 1760? Tell me what happened; but, equally important, explain why things happened as they did and not in some other, possible way. Finally: How would you characterize the American revolution – was it radical? Moderate? Conservative? A little of each? Say exactly why you think so – give reasons and examples
Part 2:
How exactly did 19th century Americans find themselves on the brink of Civil War by, say, 1859? We know that several important problems were left unresolved in the 1780s because they were controversial or difficult. What were those problems? Then say what happened, step by step, as Americans moved from ratification of a new Constitution toward the Missouri Compromise, the nullification controversy, and other critical moments. Show how conflict escalated, step by step. Include the Dred Scott ruling in 1857. Then make some decisions: Which factors contributed most powerfully to conflict and disagreement as Americans moved toward war? Think of such factors as social reform, religious revivals, capitalist expansion, the opening of the west, the existence of slavery, and so on. Which mattered most? By the time you get to the end, you should be able to identify the causes of civil war. Try to create one long, well-organized essay filled with examples drawn from For the Record, the basic textbook (America), and other course readings.
Again: I will be expecting evidence and references drawn from course readings – not internet sources. I need to be able to see in writing that you know more than when you entered the course (Only use The information from the american book and for the record also course reading!)
