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This course, part of the Gilder Lehrman Institute’s History Essentials series, examines the “why” and the “how” of American government through in-depth discussion of its history and workings. Professor Brunsman begins with the early trial and error of American government, detailing the ideals set forth in the Declaration of Independence, the flawed initial attempt at governance in the Articles of Confederation, and the debates over the US Constitution. The course continues with a practical examination of the three branches of government, focusing not only on the work that each branch does but the interaction between the branches. Finally, the course focuses on linkage institutions, including interest groups, political parties, and the media, that connect Americans with their government and influence their votes.

Led by Denver Brunsman, Associate Professor Department of History, George Washington University

This online course is aligned with the needs of elementary school teachers. For more resources for elementary school teachers, visit our Elementary Curriculum I: Colonial America to Reconstruction to explore a timeline, lesson plans, student activity sheets, and interactive maps.

The History Essentials series is free to all Affiliate School teachers and Affiliate Library staff.