PSAT Reading Question 436: Answer and Explanation

Question: 436

In Passage 1, Jefferson suggests that the American people would be open to which of the following with the British?

• A. Political dependence
• B. Economic reconciliation
• C. Religious integration
• D. Intellectual exchange

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) Jefferson prefers the first of his two proposals, "Free trade by alliance with some naval power." He argues that if the British Court were willing, an alliance "might . . . be approved by our people." Hence, Jefferson suggests that the people would see the benefits of economic trade with the British, as in choice (B). Choices (A) and (D) don't express the idea of free trade. Choice (C) does not work because the passage does not focus on the desire of the American people as a whole for religious integration with the British.