George Washington and Early America

Why was George Washington considered the obvious choice to be the first president of the United States?

• He was the only candidate available.

• He was a natural leader and had strong character.

• He was the richest man in America.

• He was the most educated person in the country.

What did George Washington mean when he said he was walking "on untrodden ground"?

• He was exploring new territories.

• He was the first to take on the role of president, setting precedents.

• He was unsure about his political beliefs.

• He was traveling to a new city.

How did Washington deal with treaty negotiations, given that no process was outlined in the Constitution?

• He ignored the need for treaties.

• He took control of treaty negotiations himself.

• He left it to Congress to decide.

• He asked foreign leaders to decide.

What was one of the main reasons Washington dressed plainly for his inauguration?

• To show he was wealthy.

• To emphasize he was a president, not a king.

• To impress foreign dignitaries.

• To follow a new fashion trend.

What was the purpose of Washington's First Inaugural Address?

• To declare war on Britain.

• To express his nervousness about being president.

• To emphasize the importance of liberty and the new government.

• To announce new taxes.

Why did Hamilton think it was crucial for the United States to repay its debts to European nations right away?

• To avoid war with Europe.

• To improve America's credit and encourage new business.

• To become a monarchy.

• To buy more land from Europe.

Describe one key difference between Jefferson's and Hamilton's visions for the new nation.

• Jefferson wanted a strong industrial nation, while Hamilton wanted an agricultural one.

• Jefferson wanted an agricultural nation, while Hamilton wanted a strong industrial one.

• Both wanted a strong industrial nation.

• Both wanted an agricultural nation.

How did Hamilton propose to pay off the national debt?

• By printing more money.

• By selling federal lands and increasing tariffs.

• By borrowing more money from Europe.

• By cutting government spending.

What was one reason southern states opposed Hamilton's financial plan?

• They wanted to become independent.

• They had already paid their war debts.

• They wanted to increase taxes.

• They preferred a monarchy.

What compromise did Hamilton make to gain the South's support for his financial plan?

• He promised to lower taxes.

• He agreed to move the nation's capital to Virginia.

• He allowed the South to print its own money.

• He gave the South more representation in Congress.