This text presents a succinct and timely approach to the principles and practices of the American governmental system. Concentrating on the most significant issues necessary to understanding American government, this book is specifically structured to engage today's students through a concise, stimulating style that is free of ideological and political bias.

Walter E. Volkomer wrote this book with the intent of producing a relatively short American government textbook that would provide all of the necessary details to give students a full understanding of the governmental system.