American Government is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of the single-semester American government course. This title includes innovative features designed to enhance student learning, including Insider Perspective features and a Get Connected Module that shows students how they can get engaged in the political process. The book provides an important opportunity for students to learn the core concepts of American government and understand how those concepts apply to their lives and the world around them. American Government includes updated information on the 2016 presidential election.Senior Contributing AuthorsGlen Krutz (Content Lead), University of OklahomaSylvie Waskiewicz, PhD (Lead Editor)

Review the lives and careers of the presidents (current through 2001), particularly the burdens that the office imposes, by examining documents and artifacts that clarify the powers of the office, the role of presidential campaigns, life in the White House, and related themes.

Brief biographical sketch of America's second president includes background information on the era in which he served and linked-to objects from the Smithsonian's collections that help define the man and his presidency.

An exhaustive look at the first Congress during George Washington's presidency. Find out about the precedents that were set and the interpretations that had to be made about the new Constitution. A fabulous site from George Washington University.

This article provides the background of the 16th Amendment, which established a federal income tax.

Animated video [1:17] provides a swiftly paced look at Franklin Pierce and the issues facing his presidency. Accompanying text provides background information on Pierce and a student handout corresponds with the video.

The University of Groningen provides an excellent biography of Andrew Jackson. The details of his candidacy, election to the presidency, and his administration are important parts of this site.

The full text of the Jay Treaty of 1794. A great resource at looking at the specific problems between the new United States and Great Britain.

Interactive teaching unit for Grades 5-8 that helps to explain the three branches of government and the the balance of power. Topics covered include balance of government, how a bill becomes a law, the amendment process, the Legislative Branch, the Judicial Branch, the Executive Branch, the President, and the Cabinet. Includes activities, worksheets, puzzles, and games.

Animated video [1:19] for students on the life and presidency of James Buchanan. Fact sheet for students to review during the video and background essay on James Buchanan provided.

Short video [1:11] for students learning about John Tyler's presidency and the challenges he faced. Students will enjoy the lively nature of this short clip. Background essay for students to read before viewing. Handout for students to use while viewing. Educational Standards listed for teachers.

This great resource gives the history of building interstate highways as far back as the Roosevelt administration. Find out why President Eisenhower thought a system of interstate highways was so important to the U.S. economy and defense.

Web page on the proposed Corwin Amendment which, if ratified, would have forbade Congress from interfering with states' right to make decision to slavery. Site contains textual information, video [3:28], and fun facts for students.

A thorough examination of the life of Theodore Roosevelt and the people and events that influenced him. You'll find photographs of Roosevelt, as well as photos, paintings, and biographies of some influential people in Roosevelt's life.

Library of Congress website on the Panic of 1857 as well as the acquisition of Maryland-Pennsylvania.

This site has information about the election and presidency of George H.W. Bush. Links within the text go to other pages with information.

The starting point of finding out everything about Franklin Pierce and his presidency. A great resource from the Miller Center of Public Affairs. Links to several essays about Pierce's presidency.