The political party system in the U.S has added an element of stability to American electoral history. Occasionally, however, this stability has been upended by the emergence of issues, politicians, and events that have spurred a reorganization of the American voting landscape. These reorganizations, or “realignments,” introduce a certain amount of unpredictability and disruption in American politics. This seminar will analyze the phenomenon of realigning elections in U.S. History.

This program will be conducted as a discussion, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with Professor Sands facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting. Registrants, therefore, are highly encouraged to read all the documents in advance and come ready with questions. Teachers will receive a Letter of Attendance at the conclusion of the seminar.