Cornell University Press Parties and Politics in America

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. 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" 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" About the Author Clinton Rossiter is John L. Senior Professor of American Institutions, Cornell University.