Having read the chapter, you should be able to do each of the following:

1. Describe the role of political parties in democratic political systems.
2. Trace the evolution of the American two-party system. Also, discuss the dynamics of realigning or critical elections.
3. Discuss the role and nature of minor parties in American politics.
4. Explain the endurance of the two-party system. Describe the obstacles inherent in the American electoral system preventing minor political parties from successfully competing for governing power.
5. Compare and contrast the American two-party system and the more common multiparty system with regard to popular representation and accountability. Discuss the influence of each system on coalition building and public policy formulation.