230202 American Political Parties (S) (WiSe 2004/2005)

This seminar will be divided into three parts. In the first we will focus on and then evaluate the results of the presidential campaign and the general election in early November. In a second phase we will go into the history and development of the two-party system in the United States, but will not neglect to look at third parties and third party movements. In the third and final phase we will devote our attention to nature of the current party system and some of the major demographic factors and political issues that have shaped and continue to shape it.

Participants may choose themes for a report or a term paper. This seminar may be used for students wanting to do the Zwischenprüfung or a written M.A. exam in North America Studies. For B.A. students (PM 5) there will be a final exam.

A reserved reading shelf will be provided.