US Political System: Structure and History
Chapter 13: The Political System of the United States
Scheme
1. Introduction
2. Historical-Political Analysis
2.1. Foundation: First Continental Congress
European heritage, the Constitution, land, resources, and frontier experience shaped the American people and institutions. English settlements began with Jamestown (1607) and Massachusetts Bay. Colonial reforms sparked reactions in the territories. The First Continental Congress (1774) in Philadelphia crystallized anti-metropolis views. The conflict began with resistance to taxes. The Boston Tea Party (1773) escalated tensions. The Second Continental Congress (1775) commissioned George Washington to lead the Continental Army. The Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776), drafted by Thomas Jefferson, declared the thirteen colonies free and independent states.
2.2. The Constitution of 1787
The U.S. Constitution, drafted in 1787 and ratified in 1789, is the oldest existing constitution. Twenty-seven amendments reflect social changes. The Constitution resulted from compromises between states and interests. The Judiciary Act of 1789 established lower courts. Judge Marshall established judicial review. The Bill of Rights (1791) guarantees individual rights. The Constitution distributes authority through federalism, separation of powers, diverse elections, and limitations on government.
2.3. National Consciousness: Union and Abolition
The Civil War (1861-1865) addressed slavery. Reconstruction followed, along with westward expansion and industrialization. The Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery (1865). Westward expansion continued with the Louisiana Purchase (1803), victory over Mexico (1848), and annexation of Texas (1845). The Frontier ended with the colonization of Oklahoma (1890).
2.4. Civil Rights, Vietnam, and Watergate
The 1960s and 1970s brought social change. JFK’s presidency saw the Bay of Pigs, the Berlin Wall, and the Cuban Missile Crisis. LBJ’s Great Society promoted social justice. Nixon’s presidency included détente with China and the USSR, but ended with Watergate.
2.5. From New Deal to Conservative Revolution
FDR’s New Deal (1930s) implemented economic regulation and welfare programs. LBJ’s Great Society (1960s) advanced social justice. Reagan’s conservative revolution (1980s) shifted towards less government intervention.
2.6. Projection in the International System
The U.S. shifted from isolationism to internationalism. The Monroe Doctrine (1823) guided early foreign policy. Post-WWII, the U.S. led a collective security system. The collapse of the Soviet Union left the U.S. as the sole superpower.
3. The Presidency
The President is the chief executive, elected indirectly for four-year terms. Powers include Commander in Chief, Head of State, and Head of Government. The President can veto legislation and issue executive orders.
3.1. Organization
- The Cabinet: An informal advisory group.
- Executive Office of the President (EOP): Includes OMB, NSC, and Domestic Council.
- White House Office: Close advisors to the President.
3.2. Informal Resources
Informal resources include budgeting, elections, media, political parties, and interest groups.
4. Congress
Congress is bicameral, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Congress has the power to create laws. The House can impeach, while the Senate confirms appointments and ratifies treaties.
4.1. Organization
Leadership includes the Speaker of the House, majority and minority leaders, and whips. Committees play a key role in the legislative process.
5. The Judicial System
The U.S. has multiple judicial systems, with federal and state courts. Judicial review allows courts to determine the legality of laws. Courts are structured in three levels: district courts, appellate courts, and supreme courts.
5.1. Federal Structure
Federal courts include District Courts, Appellate Courts, and the Supreme Court.
6. Political Parties
The U.S. has a two-party system, dominated by the Democratic and Republican parties. Parties are decentralized coalitions.
7. Pressure Groups
Interest groups influence policy through lobbying, electioneering, and propaganda. Campaign finance laws regulate contributions.
8. Elections
The voting age is 18. The President is elected indirectly through the Electoral College. Congress is elected through a simple majority system.
8.1. Voter Turnout
Voter turnout is relatively low. Factors include social class, registration requirements, and voter interest.