A source of unbiased, factual information on the U.S. government
American Government For Dummies helps you easily understand the concepts and historical events that define the U.S. government system. This readable guide covers all the content in a typical course on American government or civics, and it offers curious readers a way to learn more about how the country is run. You'll get clear, impartial, and trustworthy explanations of topics such as the three branches of government, political parties, how campaigns and elections work, and public and foreign policy. It's everything you need to become government-savvy.
Inside:
Understand the history of the U.S. system of government and how it operates today
Learn about opinion polls, elections, interest groups, political parties, and campaigns
Untangle the differences among the Senate, House of Representatives, Judiciary, and other important institutions
Get clarity on the importance of voting and discover other ways you can contribute
American Government For Dummies is a perfect for anyone looking to brush up on the foundations of the U.S. government-for a class, or simply to become more informed on the systems and structures that shape daily life.
Introduction 1
Part 1: Setting the Foundation for a New Nation 5
Chapter 1: Designing a New Country and a New Constitution 7
Chapter 2: Dividing Powers to Establish Federalism 27
Part 2: Developing Political Structures 41
Chapter 3: Convening a Congress 43
Chapter 4: Focusing on the Presidency 65
Chapter 5: Adjusting the Judiciary Framework 85
Chapter 6: Building the Bureaucracy 101
Part 3: Safeguarding the People 115
Chapter 7: Addressing Civil Liberties 117
Chapter 8: Continuing the March for Civil Rights 137
Part 4: Making Policy: What a Government Must Do 155
Chapter 9: Making Public Policy 157
Chapter 10: Conducting Foreign Policy 177
Part 5: Participating in Politics 199
Chapter 11: Regarding Public Opinion and the Media 201
Chapter 12: Partaking in the Political Process 221
Chapter 13: Participating in Campaigns and Elections 237
Chapter 14: Examining Political Parties 255
Chapter 15: Discovering Interest Groups 281
Part 6: The Part of Tens 299
Chapter 16: The Ten Most Influential Court Cases in U.S History 301
Chapter 17: The Ten Most Influential Documents in U.S History 309
Index 317