Chapter 24

Quiz for Document 24-3: Felix Belair Jr., “United States Has a Secret Sonic Weapon—Jazz” (1955)

Reader Quiz

Chapter 24c

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Question 1

According to Felix Belair Jr.’s reporting, what aspect of jazz do European listeners find most appealing?A. African American exoticism
B. Complex harmonies
C. Individualistic expression
D. Rhythmic dynamics

Question 2

According to the article’s author, Europeans listen to jazz not as entertainment but asA. artistic and intellectual expression.
B. cultural and social commentary.
C. ethnic and racial artifact.
D. social and sexual rebellion.

Question 3

According to the article, in what way should the U.S. government approach the performances of American jazz musicians in European countries?A. Create an Undersecretary of Jazz to assist the State Department
B. Manage artists’ statements to insure consistent messaging
C. Issue press releases to maximize effective propaganda
D. Subsidize tours to help artists reach a broader audience

Question 4

What might many African American jazz musicians have found perplexing about government use of jazz to promote American ideals of liberty and individualism?A. Artistic expression was never before used for political purposes.
B. Democratic Party leaders vocally hated American jazz.
C. Jazz performance has little room for individual expression.
D. Civil rights for African Americans weren’t regarded by American political leaders.