Politics Archives

What Got Us Here? A History of Political Polarization in America

Was American politics always like this? Did politicians always seek to stir up partisan fervor among their supporters by antagonizing the other side? According to Ezra Klein, the answer to these excellent questions is “No.” In Why We’re Polarized, he writes that the story of modern polarization is rooted in cleavages in the political system that began in the 1950s and 1960s, during the civil rights era. Read on for a brief history of political polarization in America.

Are Identity Politics in America to Blame for Growing Polarization?

What’s more important in American politics—issues or identities? What’s fueling the increasing political polarization in the country? It seems that, more and more, America has an “us vs. them” mentality when it comes to politics. People used to discuss the issues; now, they talk about other people. Ezra Klein argues that this results in growing divisions among Americans. Read more to learn about this troubling function of identity politics in America.

Alexander Hamilton and the Constitution—What Role Did He Play?

How did Alexander Hamilton influence the US Constitution? What part did he play in the Revolutionary War? Hamilton was one of George Washington’s most trusted allies in the Revolutionary War. As noted in Ron Chernow’s biography of him, this led to Hamilton becoming an admired delegate at the Constitutional Convention. Continuing reading to learn about the relationship between George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, the Constitution’s beginnings, and post-war reconstruction.

The Polarization of Political Parties: Why the GOP Is Impacted More

How has growing political polarization in America affected Democrats and Republicans? Why are these parties impacted differently? The Democratic and Republican parties are different, not just in their platforms, but in their culture and makeup. Ezra Klein says that this explains why political polarization affects these two major parties differently. Continue reading to understand the polarization of political parties in America.

The Origins of Alexander Hamilton’s Federalist Papers

What are the contents of Alexander Hamilton’s Federalist Papers? Why did he write the Federalist Papers? The Federalist Papers are known as Hamilton’s best-known piece of work. They consist of 85 essays that describe, in detail, what each clause of the Constitution states so that it wouldn’t be misinterpreted. Let’s look at why Hamilton wrote the Federalist Papers and the impact they had on America at the time.

Why the Filibuster Should Be Abolished: It Fuels Polarization

What’s the filibuster in the US Senate? Should the filibuster be abolished? In Why We’re Polarized, American progressive journalist, political commentator, and podcaster Ezra Klein explains why the filibuster should be abolished. He thinks the rule is abused and contributes to political polarization. Keep reading to understand why Klein believes it’s time for the filibuster to go and why not everyone agrees with his analysis.

Can Election Reform Be a Pathway Out of Political Polarization?

Is there a connection between political polarization and the way America elects its officials? If so, what should be done about it? Progressive journalist, political commentator, and podcaster Ezra Klein says that, if done right, election reform can break up the push toward growing polarization. He proposes the replacement of the Electoral College by a direct popular vote for the presidency as well as the creation of multi-member districts. Keep reading to understand both of these proposals and what Klein hopes they’ll accomplish.

The First Party System: Federalism vs. Republicanism

How Exclusionary Zoning Perpetuated Racial Inequality

What was the first party system in the US like? What did each party advocate for? According to Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow, the politician of the same name played an important role in the forming of the first American political parties. These parties are known as the Federalist and Republican parties. Discover more about the first party system and their beliefs.

How to Reduce Political Polarization Individually & Together

Do you recognize efforts to sow division between you and your fellow citizens? If so, how do you respond? In Why We’re Polarized, progressive journalist, political commentator, and podcaster Ezra Klein explores the history and roots of polarization in America and its impact on the two major political parties. Then, he discusses how to reduce political polarization through institutional and individual actions. Keep reading to find out how Americans might be able to stem the tide of polarization.

The Impact of the French Revolution on America

What was America’s role in the French Revolution? Why were American parties split on helping the French? According to Ron Chernow’s book Alexander Hamilton, the French Revolution was a tough time for America. The Federalists wanted to side with the British for economic reasons, whereas the Republicans advocated for helping the French for democratic reasons. Let’s look at the impact of the French Revolution on America.