I - Required - Long Essay (7-9 paragraphs)
Be specific, use examples, and quotes where necessary.
1. "In the years between 1815 and 1848, two rival political programs appeared, reflecting rival sets of hopes. Some Americans felt largely satisfied with their society the way it was, slavery and all, especially with the autonomy it provided to so many individual white men and their local communities. They wanted their familiar America extended across space. Other Americans, however, were beguiled by the prospect of improvement to pursue economic diversification and social reform, even at the risk of compromising some precious personal and local independence. They envisioned qualitative, not just quantitative, progress for America."
Explain this passage from Daniel Walker Howe. What are these "rival political programs," what specifically did they want America to look like, and in what ways did they advocate for their respective visions? Furthermore what is the difference between "qualitative" and "quantitative" progress and how do they differ? Finally, how does the Civil War figure in these conflicting visions?
II - Choose two: Short Essay (3-5 paragraphs)
Be specific, use examples, and quotes where necessary.
1. Explain the difference between Alexander Hamilton's vision of the United States and Thomas Jefferson's. Which path or paths did America eventually take?
2. Why was/is Andrew Jackson such a controversial figure?
3. What was the Seneca Falls Convention and why was it important?
4. Who was John Brown and why was his life and death significant?