Mary and David Nichols ( political science, Baylor University) have brought together 90 selections and excerpts representing fundamental writings, decisions, and debates in American political history. They introduce eight sections covering founding principles, political parties and elections, the three branches of government, economics, foreign policy, and liberty and equality. A wide range of work is included, from Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence, to the Congressional Committees investigating Iran-Contra, to Justice Blackmun's delivery of the Roe v. Wade decision. The appendix contains the U.S. Constitution. Annotation 2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR