Texes Social Studies Content Practice Exam

Which influential American novel of the 1800s addressed the topic of slavery?

1. Women's suffrage

2. Slavery

3. Industry

4. Westward movement

The correct answer is: Slavery

The influential American novel that addressed the topic of slavery in the 1800s is "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe. Published in 1852, this novel played a significant role in shaping public opinion about enslaved people and the moral implications of slavery. It became a bestseller and had a profound impact on the abolitionist movement by illustrating the harsh realities of slavery and humanizing the experiences of enslaved individuals. The emotional narrative and vivid character portrayals helped to raise awareness and foster empathy among readers, contributing to the growing anti-slavery sentiment in the United States during that period. While the other options touch on important historical topics, they do not specifically relate to literature that scrutinizes the institution of slavery. Women's suffrage addresses issues of voting rights for women, industry pertains to economic developments, and westward movement is about territorial expansion. None of these themes are central to a novel directly confronting and critiquing slavery as "Uncle Tom's Cabin" does.