Even though American government touches every aspect of Americans’ lives, few students understand how American government and politics work or how citizens can engage their own political system. Explore the creation and development of the American political system, the Constitution, civil liberties, and civil rights; the nature of American politics and political participation, including political parties, elections, interest groups, and media; the structure of political institutions, namely Congress, the pr esidency, and the judiciary; and the development of public policy. Throughout the course, learn about your own political identity, observe how government actually works, and have important civic conversations.