The American Political Party System : A Reference Handbook

What historical factors transformed American politics into the institution we know today? This in-depth look at America's party system traces its efficacy, sustainability, and popularity through six influential presidencies spanning 1790 to the present day.· Theorizes how the presidencies of Jefferson, Jackson, Lincoln, McKinley, FDR, and Ronald Reagan marked the beginning of a new political party system at the time and considers how Obama's election might signal the latest transformation· Contains essays that explain how political beliefs affect party identification, examine each party's platform on national security issues, and identify the effects the Trump campaign has on the Republican Party· Features 15 primary documents including excerpts from the Federalist Papers and relevant sections of the U.S. Constitution· Includes maps, bar and line graphs, and pie charts to illustrate key elements of the party system