1.
Who was the oldest person to sign the Declaration of Independence?
Correct Answer
B. Benjamin Franklin
Explanation
Benjamin Franklin was the oldest person to sign the Declaration of Independence. He was born in 1706, making him 70 years old at the time of signing in 1776. Franklin was a renowned polymath, scientist, inventor, writer, and statesman. His age and experience made him a respected figure among the Founding Fathers, and he played a crucial role in drafting the Declaration. Franklin's contributions to American history and his significant involvement in the formation of the United States make him a notable figure in the signing of this important document.
2.
Who actually wrote the Declaration of Independence?
Correct Answer
A. Thomas Jefferson
Explanation
Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. He was chosen by the Continental Congress to draft the document, which was adopted on July 4, 1776. Jefferson's eloquent writing and his belief in individual rights and liberty greatly influenced the content of the Declaration. His contributions to American history extend beyond this document, as he later served as the third President of the United States.
3.
How did Rodney's vote affect other voters?
Correct Answer
B. His vote helped other delegations decide to vote yes to independence.
Explanation
Rodney's vote had a positive impact on other voters as it influenced them to support and vote in favor of independence. His vote acted as a catalyst for other delegations to also choose independence, indicating that his decision played a significant role in swaying their opinions and ultimately leading to a majority vote in favor of independence.
4.
Why do some historians think July 2nd ought to be the American Independence Day?
Correct Answer
C. On July 2nd, twelve of the thirteen colonies voted for their independence from England.
Explanation
Some historians believe that July 2nd ought to be the American Independence Day because on that day, twelve of the thirteen colonies voted for their independence from England. This vote was a significant step towards breaking away from British rule and establishing independence. The meeting in Independence Hall and the debate about separation from England also took place on July 2nd, but it was the actual vote for independence that holds the most weight in determining the date of Independence Day.
5.
What was NOT one of the three different opinion groups leading up to the Declaration of Independence?
Correct Answer
A. Electing a new king for the colonies.
Explanation
The question asks about the three different opinion groups leading up to the Declaration of Independence. The first two options, "Independence from England" and "Reconciliation with England," are valid opinion groups as they represent the two main factions during that time. However, "Electing a new king for the colonies" was not one of the opinion groups. This option suggests a desire for a different form of government within the colonies, rather than a stance on the relationship with England.
6.
Why was signing the Declaration of Independence such a dangerous act?
Correct Answer
C. Those that signed might be hung for treason against the British government.
Explanation
Signing the Declaration of Independence was a dangerous act because those who signed it could be charged with treason against the British government. Treason was a serious crime punishable by death, and by signing the document, they openly defied and challenged British authority. This act of rebellion put their lives at risk as they could be executed if captured by the British.
7.
What did Jefferson do when he needed a break from writing?
Correct Answer
B. He went for walks in the countryside or on the waterfront.
Explanation
Jefferson went for walks in the countryside or on the waterfront when he needed a break from writing. This suggests that he preferred to take a physical break and engage in outdoor activities to refresh his mind and rejuvenate his energy. Walking in nature or near water can have a calming and revitalizing effect, allowing Jefferson to clear his mind and gain new perspectives before returning to his writing tasks.
8.
What was the "Natural Law" that Jefferson referred to?
Correct Answer
B. The law of Nature and of Nature's God and was more powerful than any king's laws.
Explanation
Jefferson referred to the "Natural Law" as the law of Nature and of Nature's God, which was more powerful than any king's laws. This suggests that Jefferson believed in a higher moral code that transcended the authority of any earthly ruler. This concept of Natural Law was rooted in the belief that certain rights and principles were inherent to all individuals, and that governments should be based on these fundamental principles. By recognizing the supremacy of Natural Law, Jefferson was advocating for the protection of individual rights and the limitation of governmental power.
9.
Into which category would the Declaration of Independence fall?
Correct Answer
A. Important historic document
Explanation
The Declaration of Independence would fall into the category of an important historic document. This is because it is a foundational document that declared the independence of the United States from Great Britain and outlined the principles and ideals upon which the nation was founded. It holds immense historical significance as it marks a pivotal moment in American history and serves as a symbol of freedom and democracy.
10.
The actual signing of the Declaration took place on
Correct Answer
C. August 2, 1776
11.
The Delaware vote helped to sway other delegations. In this sentence, a delegation is a
Correct Answer
A. Group of people
Explanation
The sentence states that the Delaware vote had an impact on other delegations. This implies that the Delaware delegation, which is a group of people representing a particular state or organization, influenced or persuaded other delegations to vote in a certain way. Therefore, the correct answer is "group of people."
12.
Some Americans wanted reconciliation with England. A reconciliation is like a
Correct Answer
C. Settlement
Explanation
The correct answer is settlement because reconciliation refers to the restoration of friendly relations or the resolution of a dispute. In the context of the question, some Americans desired to reconcile with England, indicating their wish for a settlement or agreement to resolve any conflicts or differences between the two parties. A gathering or argument would not align with the idea of reconciliation, making settlement the most appropriate choice.
13.
The unalienable rights in the Declaration of Independence are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. An unalienable right is one that
Correct Answer
B. All people should have
Explanation
The correct answer is "all people should have." The Declaration of Independence states that these rights are unalienable, meaning they cannot be taken away or denied. The document asserts that these rights are inherent to all individuals, regardless of nationality or citizenship. Therefore, it is not limited to only Americans or the colonists, but it applies to everyone universally. These rights are considered fundamental and should be enjoyed by all people.
14.
A document is
Correct Answer
C. Paper containing information
Explanation
The correct answer is "paper containing information" because a document is typically a written or printed piece of paper that contains information, such as text, images, or data. It is used to convey or record information and can be in various forms, such as letters, reports, contracts, or certificates. The other options, "line that you sign your name on" and "place where papers are stored," do not accurately define what a document is.
15.
The possibility of being hung for treason did not matter to American radicals. A radical in this sentence is a
Correct Answer
A. Rebel
Explanation
The correct answer is "rebel" because American radicals were not concerned about the risk of being executed for treason. They were willing to challenge and oppose the established authority, showing a rebellious nature in their actions and beliefs.