Overview

A distinguished historian and political scientist provides a forthright and objective account of American party politics in this concise and invaluable guide. In vigorous and lively language he examines the two major parties—""the peacemakers of the American community""—describing their historic functions and the way they have helped to achieve national unity. He discusses their make-up, their achievements and failures, the images each has established of itself and of the opposition party. The demographic forces influencing the American voter and the complex question of how the parties actually differ receive thought-provoking treatment. This invigorating analysis of the hard facts of American political life will live far beyond the election year of 1960.

Full Product Details

9780801403644

Table of Contents

Reviews

Mr. Rossiter has taken what could have been a tedious subject and handled it - as might be expected of him - in a readable way with no sacrifice of scholarship. (New York Times Book Review) In this slim but muscular volume, Rossiter takes a careful look at the realities and promise of American politics - past, present, and future. It is a superbly written commentary and review. (The Washington Post) Rossiter understands the nuances of our politics, he writes with perception and clarity, and has produced a sensible, brief account for those at home and abroad who wish to understand democratic politics, American style. (Saturday Review)

At no time in our political history is a reappraisal of our party system more vital than when we face a national election. Then- often only then- the people become more aware of what parties mean. In the main, the American party may be weak as an agent of decision and power, playing down principles and playing up accommodation. But through the pages of this book, one becomes aware of the positive influences through our history, the value to the American political and social scene, the functions, particularly those that are characteristically American. The two major parties are the focus of attention; third parties have come and gone- though this is not necessarily and permanently true. Their values go farther than nominations, campaigns, elections and appointments. Their differences are closely analyzed- and the importance of these differences appraised. Their successes and failures are charted. The apathy of the American public both in voting and in taking an active part is undeniable - and perhaps the very reading of a book such as this should help us all realize why participation is a challenge and responsibility, why we cannot criticize the shortcomings - and sit back and do nothing. Behind the Constitution stand the people; there we must seek out the peculiar qualities of American parties. A book for thoughtful consideration, for extensive use in study of politics- but a book that not many average readers will seek out for themselves. (Kirkus Reviews)

Mr. Rossiter has taken what could have been a tedious subject and handled it - as might be expected of him - in a readable way with no sacrifice of scholarship. --New York Times Book Review Rossiter understands the nuances of our politics, he writes with perception and clarity, and has produced a sensible, brief account for those at home and abroad who wish to understand democratic politics, American style. --Saturday Review In this slim but muscular volume, Rossiter takes a careful look at the realities and promise of American politics - past, present, and future. It is a superbly written commentary and review. --The Washington Post

In this slim but muscular volume, Rossiter takes a careful look at the realities and promise of American politics - past, present, and future. It is a superbly written commentary and review. --The Washington Post Rossiter understands the nuances of our politics, he writes with perception and clarity, and has produced a sensible, brief account for those at home and abroad who wish to understand democratic politics, American style. --Saturday Review Mr. Rossiter has taken what could have been a tedious subject and handled it - as might be expected of him - in a readable way with no sacrifice of scholarship. --New York Times Book Review

Rossiter understands the nuances of our politics, he writes with perception and clarity, and has produced a sensible, brief account for those at home and abroad who wish to understand democratic politics, American style. --Saturday Review In this slim but muscular volume, Rossiter takes a careful look at the realities and promise of American politics - past, present, and future. It is a superbly written commentary and review. --The Washington Post Mr. Rossiter has taken what could have been a tedious subject and handled it - as might be expected of him - in a readable way with no sacrifice of scholarship. --New York Times Book Review

Author Information

Clinton Rossiter is John L. Senior Professor of American Institutions, Cornell University.

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