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 prominent figure in American history, known for his contributions as a statesman, inventor, and writer. His age and experience made him a respected and influential member of the Continental Congress, leading to his involvement in the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence.
2.
Who actually wrote the Declaration of Independence?
Correct Answer
A. Thomas Jefferson
Explanation
Thomas Jefferson is the correct answer because he was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. He was chosen by the Second Continental Congress to draft the document, and his eloquent writing style and strong beliefs in individual rights and liberty made him the ideal candidate for the task. Jefferson's final draft was presented to Congress on July 2, 1776, and after some revisions, it was officially adopted on July 4, 1776. Jefferson's role in writing the Declaration of Independence solidifies his place as one of the Founding Fathers 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 other delegations to vote in favor of independence. His vote likely provided a persuasive argument or convinced others of the importance and benefits of independence, leading them to also vote yes. This suggests that Rodney's vote played a crucial role in influencing the decision-making process and ultimately swaying the opinions of other voters towards supporting 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 think July 2nd ought to be the American Independence Day because on that day, twelve out of the thirteen colonies voted in favor of their independence from England. This vote was a significant step towards declaring independence and establishing the United States as a separate nation. The meeting in Independence Hall and the debate about separation also took place on July 2nd, but it was the vote that ultimately solidified the decision for independence.
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 for the option that was NOT one of the three different opinion groups leading up to the Declaration of Independence. The options provided are "Electing a new king for the colonies," "Independence from England," and "Reconciliation with England." The correct answer is "Electing a new king for the colonies." This option is not one of the three opinion groups because the colonists were not seeking to replace the king with a new one, but rather to break away from British rule and establish their own independent nation.
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 it could result in being hung for treason against the British government. This act of signing the document was seen as an act of rebellion and defiance against the British rule, which was considered treasonous. The British government had strict laws and punishments for treason, including execution. Therefore, signing the Declaration of Independence was a risky and courageous act that could have severe consequences for those involved.
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 activity allowed him to relax and clear his mind, providing a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to rejuvenate. Walking in nature or by the water can be a calming and invigorating experience, helping to alleviate mental fatigue and stimulate creativity. It is a healthy and enjoyable way to take a break and recharge 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 implies that Jefferson believed in the existence of a higher moral law that transcended the authority of monarchs and rulers. This concept of Natural Law suggests that there are certain fundamental rights and principles that are inherent to all individuals and cannot be taken away by any human authority.
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. It is a significant piece of American history that declared the United States' independence from Great Britain in 1776. The document outlines the principles and ideals upon which the nation was founded, making it a crucial historical artifact. It is not considered a major work of art, as it is primarily a legal and political document. While it has been widely read by many people, its significance lies in its historical importance rather than its popularity as a written work.
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 influence on other delegations. This implies that the delegation is a group of people who have the power to vote or make decisions. 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
Some Americans wanted reconciliation with England, which means they desired to establish a settlement or agreement with England to resolve their differences and conflicts. This suggests that they were seeking a peaceful resolution and compromise rather than engaging in a gathering or argument.
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." This is because the concept of unalienable rights, as stated in the Declaration of Independence, is not limited to Americans or colonists specifically. It asserts that these rights are inherent to all individuals, regardless of nationality or any other factor. The idea is that every person should be entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, regardless of their background or circumstances.
14.
A document is
Correct Answer
C. Paper containing information
Explanation
The correct answer is "paper containing information" because a document typically refers to a written or printed piece of paper that contains information, such as text, images, or data. It is used to record or communicate information and can take various forms, such as letters, reports, contracts, or certificates. Signing one's name on a document is just one possible action that can be done with a document, but it does not define what a document is. Similarly, while a place where papers are stored may contain documents, it does not define the nature of a document itself.
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." In the given sentence, the phrase "American radicals" refers to individuals who hold extreme political views and are willing to challenge or oppose established authority. The fact that they are not concerned about the possibility of being hanged for treason suggests that they are rebels who are willing to take risks and defy the government's rules and regulations.