Quiz on The Great Awakening and Enlightenment

Who is considered the most authoritative expounder of New England Calvinism?

• Phillis Wheatley

• Jonathan Edwards

• Thomas Paine

• Benjamin Franklin

Answer explanation

Jonathan Edwards is widely regarded as the most authoritative expounder of New England Calvinism due to his influential sermons and writings that shaped the theological landscape of the region in the 18th century.

What characterizes Benjamin Franklin's approach compared to Jonathan Edwards?

• Spirituality and other-worldliness

• Worldly and secular perspective

• Focus on Puritan verse

• Emphasis on poetic expression

Answer explanation

Benjamin Franklin's approach is characterized by a worldly and secular perspective, focusing on practical matters and human experience, in contrast to Jonathan Edwards' emphasis on spirituality and Puritan beliefs.

Which of the following did Franklin NOT establish?

• Harvard University

• University of Pennsylvania

• American Philosophical Society

• Philadelphia public library

Answer explanation

Franklin did not establish Harvard University; it was founded in 1636, while he was involved in founding the University of Pennsylvania, the American Philosophical Society, and the Philadelphia public library.

What was the primary purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

• To promote religious freedom

• To declare war on Britain

• To obtain aid from foreign countries

• To establish a new government

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of the Declaration of Independence was to obtain aid from foreign countries. By declaring independence, the colonies sought support against British rule, which was crucial for their success in the Revolutionary War.

Which work is Thomas Paine best known for?

• The Autobiography

• The Federalist Papers

• Poor Richard's Almanac

• Common Sense

Answer explanation

Thomas Paine is best known for 'Common Sense', a pamphlet published in 1776 that advocated for American independence from Britain, making a significant impact on public opinion at the time.

What did Franklin's Autobiography emphasize?

• The importance of poetry

• The virtues of industry and frugality

• The need for political reform

• The significance of religious faith

Answer explanation

Franklin's Autobiography emphasizes the virtues of industry and frugality, highlighting the importance of hard work and saving as key principles for personal success and societal improvement.

Which of the following is a famous quote from the Declaration of Independence?

• All men are created equal

• I think, therefore I am

• The only thing we have to fear is fear itself

• Give me liberty or give me death

Answer explanation

The phrase 'All men are created equal' is a well-known quote from the Declaration of Independence, emphasizing the principle of equality. The other options are famous quotes from different historical contexts.

What did Franklin invent related to electricity?

• The electric chair

• The lightning rod

• The battery

• The telegraph

Answer explanation

Franklin invented the lightning rod to protect buildings from lightning strikes by directing the electrical charge safely into the ground. This invention significantly advanced the understanding of electricity and its dangers.

Which American poet is known for 'The Indian Burying Ground'?

• Phillis Wheatley

• Philip Freneau

• Mather Byles

• Hugh Henry Brackenridge

Answer explanation

Philip Freneau is the American poet known for 'The Indian Burying Ground', a poem that reflects on Native American culture and the themes of death and memory.

What was a significant change in American society by the mid-18th century?

• Reduction in political engagement

• Decline in newspaper publications

• Rise of democratic feeling

• Decrease in trade between colonies

Answer explanation

By the mid-18th century, there was a notable rise of democratic feeling in American society, driven by Enlightenment ideas and increasing calls for political participation, contrasting with earlier hierarchical structures.