For one/two-semester undergraduate courses in American Government.This accessible paperback text introduces students to the basics of American government, structured around democracy as an ideal toward which we continually strive. Thematically organized and comprehensive, it prepares students to review events in the context of this goal. Cases and real-world examples reflect current trends and events. It prepares students to be good citizens, armed with the information they will need to follow politics and make educated choices about leaders, policies, and actions.