Political Parties Study Guide

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the major topics, definitions, and concepts from the Political Parties Study Guide.

Two-party System

A political system dominated by the two major parties (Democrats & Republicans) in the United States which hold significant power and influence over our government.

Republican Party (Historical Origin)

Established to fight against slavery.

Democrats (Historical Stance)

Supported slavery.

Political Center

The middle stance on issues taken by Republicans and Democrats so they don't push voters away.

Single-issue Party

A party focusing on one major social, economic, or moral issue.

Ideological Party

A party that has a set of ideas about how to change society.

Splinter Party

A party that splits away from a major party.

Green Party

Spoils the election by taking votes away from one of the major party candidates.

Third Parties

Parties that can inspire new voters to participate in elections.

Minor Party Candidates

Candidates who draw attention to lesser-known issues forcing major party candidates to address the problem.

Nader

Spoiled the election by taking votes away from Al Gore; therefore, causing Bush to win the election.

Presidential Debates

Events that connect citizens to candidates, provide a better understanding of where candidates stand on important issues, and help decide candidates for nomination.

Independent

A voter who is not aligned with a political party.

Mass Media

Brings us closer to the candidates so we can see them as ordinary people.

Party Goals Information

Informs voters of the goals of the political party.

Press Corps

Reports stories to the American public about the conduct, good or bad, of our government officials.

Petitioning the Government

Actions taken by citizens to influence or change government decisions, including letter-writing, e-mail campaigns, filing lawsuits, and registering people to vote.

Illegal Campaign Actions

Bribes, gift giving, and illegal campaign contributions.