ABSTRACT
Stable political institutions have been particularly important in a nation of immigrants. Many commentators feel that loyalty to the basic structures and principles of government has acted as the cement that has held together so large and diverse a nation. Today, the US holds several records for political stability and longevity. Arguably the oldest functioning democracy, the country also has the world’s oldest written constitution and political party (the Democratic Party). Much has changed in American government and politics since the nation declared its independence in 1776. The Constitution of 1787 has endured not least because it has proven amenable to changing interpretations and open enough to assimilate important extra-constitutional elements. Even so, political institutions in the US have been, and continue to be, the subject of heated debate. As Barack Obama began his second term, sharpened partisan polarization and divided government with a president of one party and majorities of the other major party in one or both houses of congress led to political deadlock and a decline in the public’s confidence in government.
