Instructions
Ellis spends quite a lot of time describing the personality, beliefs, and actions of significant members of the founding generation. Use the chart on page 4 to take notes on the various characters as you learn more about them. Feel free to use extra paper or the back side of the chart if you need run out of room on the chart. * For each chapter, answer the following questions in complete sentences. You must write the question along with your response. * Answers must cite specific, relevant evidence from the text. Include page numbers – i.e. (#). * All work should be written legibly in blue or black ink on lined paper. * This should be your work!
Introduction: The Generation
1. The major accomplishments of the Founding Brothers during the Revolution were unprecedented? Why? (Give 3 reasons)
2. What were the assets and liabilities of the United States in 1789? How did the liabilities make it difficult for the Founding Brothers to build a nation under the new Constitution?
3. What distinguishes the American Revolution from most, if not all, subsequent revolutions?
Explain.
4. According to Ellis, why were the Founding Brothers successful? (He offers 4 reasons.)
5. Why does Ellis refer to the individuals as Founding Brothers and not Founding Fathers?
Chapter 1: The Duel (July 11, 1804)
1. How did the characters and the duel represent political developments of the early republic?
2. When Ellis refers to “the supercharged political culture of the early republic,” what does he mean? 3. Why did the Burr-Hamilton duel become legendary – why did it matter?
4. Why does Hamilton call Burr the “Catiline of America?” Provide examples that support Hamilton’s view of Burr.
Chapter 2: The Dinner (June 20, 1790)
1. What were the two issues at stake in this chapter and what were the obstacles