Political Parties

What are political parties defined as in the American political system?

Groups that nominate candidates for elected office.

Why were the Founders skeptical about political parties?

They feared that factions would lead to divisiveness and undermine national unity.

Who warned about the problems of factions in Federalist 10?

James Madison

How did George Washington view political parties?

As a source of unnecessary division of the public.

What do political scientists argue about political parties?

They argue that parties improve democracy by providing organization.

What do political parties help alleviate in Congress?

Coordination problems.

What model did V.O. Key Jr. create to explain the roles of political parties?

The tripartite model of political parties.

What is the role of the 'Party in Government'?

It comprises politicians elected to serve as official representatives.

What is the primary goal of 'Party as an Organization'?

To aid in the election of partisans to various offices.

What occurs at national conventions in the American political system?

They highlight candidates and promote unity amongst partisans.

What types of members exist within a political party organization?

Party professionals and party amateurs.

Who are considered party professionals?

Chairpersons and other leaders who work directly with the party.

What distinguishes party amateurs?

They are motivated partisans who work unofficially with the party.

What does the 'Party in the Electorate' consist of?

Members of the public who align with a political party.

What was the First Party System from 1796 to 1824?

It included the Democratic Republican Party and the Federalist Party.

What did the Democratic Republican Party advocate for?

A reduced role for the national government.

Who supported ratification of the Constitution?

The Federalist Party.

What characterized the Second Party System between 1832-1860?

The rise of the Democratic Party and the Whig Party.

What happened to the Whig Party at the onset of the Civil War?

It dissolved due to internal disagreements over slavery.

During which period did the Third Party System occur?

1860-1896.

What was a key aspect of the Republican Party's formation?

It was formed during the Civil War to promote opposition to slavery.

What was unique about the Fourth Party System from 1896-1932?

The Progressive Party was able to influence policy outcomes.

What does Duverger’s Law explain?

It explains why single-member districts lead to two-party systems.

What major reforms did the Progressives adopt?

The Australian ballot, direct primary, and the 17th Amendment.

What characterized the Fifth Party System from 1932-1980?

A shift in power dynamics primarily benefiting the Democratic Party.

Who was instrumental in creating the New Deal coalition?

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

What led to the dissolution of the New Deal Coalition?

Debates about the role of race in the American political system.

What significant transition occurred during the Sixth Party System?

A southern realignment of voters from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party.

What characterizes lobbying activities of interest groups?

They attempt to influence the policymaking process without nominating candidates.

What is inside lobbying?

Direct contact between interest groups and politicians to advance their goals.

What is outside lobbying?

Engaging with the public to mobilize voters to appeal to politicians.

What is a collective action problem faced by interest groups?

Free riding, where individuals benefit from the group without contributing.

How do interest groups prevent free riding?

By providing selective incentives to those who join.

What is a coordination problem in the context of interest groups?

When groups unite under a common cause but have misaligned interests.

How can interest groups overcome coordination problems?

By crafting a clear, concise message for lobbying.