Bell Work What do the following words mean to you: Liberal Conservative Republican Democrat Radical Reactionary Moderate

In Lak’ech by Luis Valdez Tu eres me otro yo Si te hago daño a ti, Me hago daño a mi mismo Si te amo y respeto Me amo y respeto yo You are my other me If I do harm to you, I do harm to myself If I love and respect you I love and respect myself

Bell Work What do the following words mean to you: Liberal Conservative Republican Democrat Radical Reactionary Moderate

Functions of Political Parties Political parties are an integral part of the American democratic system. Parties bring key issues to public attention and involve people in the political process. Political parties help the government operate smoothly, and they dispense political patronage. The winning party implements its key policy initiatives, and the losing party is a “watchdog.” Parties contribute to political stability.

Party Systems One-party systems are usually found in nations with authoritarian governments. Minor parties exist in two-party systems, but two major political parties compete for power. In multi-party systems, several parties often combine forces in a coalition government.

Evolution of American Parties Opposing political parties had organized before the end of President Washington’s second term. The Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans disagreed over federal versus state power. The Democratic-Republican party split into the Democrats and the Whigs. In the 1850s, a new Republican Party opposed the spread of slavery. Following the Civil War, the two dominant parties were Republican and Democrat.

Minor or Third Parties Third parties have been on the American political scene since the early days of the Republic. A third party generally forms as a single-issue party, an ideological party, or a splinter party. Minor parties have influenced the outcome of national elections. As a result of the two-party tradition, third parties face a number of obstacles.

Issues Project Product (due the week of March 11) A 7-10 minute presentation that thoroughly answers each of the questions you chose. Provides opposing viewpoints Includes where the political parties stand on this issue Includes charts/graphs/other visuals as necessary Includes citation of sources used (min. 3 per question)

Issues Project Brainstorm questions Identify open-ended and closed-ended questions Change at least one closed-ended question to an open-ended question Identify 4 open ended questions that you would like to find the answers to Identify the resources you will need to take in order to find those answers Describe your next steps

What have you learned in your research so far? Reflection What have you learned in your research so far?