Dictionary of American Political Terms: lexicon of American politics.

The “Dictionary of American Political Terms” edited by Hans Sperber and Travis Trittschuh is a comprehensive reference guide that delves into the nuanced and often complex lexicon of American politics. This dictionary serves as an essential resource for students, scholars, journalists, and anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of political discourse in the United States.

Historical Context and Purpose

Published at the turn of the millennium, this dictionary was crafted during a period of significant political transformation and heightened political engagement in the United States. The late 20th century saw the end of the Cold War, the rise of the internet, and a dramatic shift in the political landscape with the election of Bill Clinton and the subsequent partisan battles. In this context, the dictionary aimed to provide clarity and insight into the evolving political language of the time.

Structure and Content

The dictionary is meticulously organized, offering clear and concise definitions of terms that are integral to American political discourse. It covers a wide range of topics including political ideologies, legislative procedures, electoral processes, and key historical events. Each entry not only defines the term but also provides contextual information to help readers understand its relevance and application in American politics.

Key Features:

1. Comprehensive Definitions: The dictionary includes detailed definitions of over 1,000 political terms. Each entry is crafted to ensure that even complex concepts are accessible to readers without a background in political science.
2. Historical Context: Many entries provide historical background to illustrate how certain terms have evolved over time. This historical perspective helps readers appreciate the dynamic nature of political language.
3. Examples and Applications: Where applicable, the dictionary includes examples of how terms are used in political discourse. This practical approach aids in understanding the real-world application of abstract concepts.
4. Cross-References: The dictionary is rich with cross-references, guiding readers to related terms and concepts. This interconnected approach helps build a more comprehensive understanding of American political language.
5. Appendices and Supplementary Materials: The dictionary includes several appendices that offer additional resources such as lists of key political figures, landmark Supreme Court cases, and significant legislative acts.

Notable Entries

To illustrate the depth and breadth of the dictionary, here are a few notable entries:

1. Filibuster: This entry defines the filibuster as a parliamentary procedure used in the United States Senate to delay or block legislative action. It provides a historical overview, tracing its origins to ancient Rome, and explains its strategic use in modern politics, including notable examples from the 20th century.
2. Gerrymandering: This term refers to the manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a particular political party. The entry delves into the origins of the term, its legal implications, and contemporary debates surrounding its use and reform.
3. Federalism: The dictionary defines federalism as a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units (states). It explores the historical development of federalism in the United States, highlighting key Supreme Court cases that have shaped its interpretation.
4. Impeachment: This entry explains the process of impeachment as outlined in the U.S. Constitution. It details the historical instances of impeachment, the legal standards involved, and the political ramifications of this significant check on executive power.
5. Dead duck . This entry explains myths. One whose political effectiveness is gone.
6. Glover : A politician who uses the handshaking technique to win votes.

Editorial Approach

Hans Sperber and Travis Trittschuh brought a wealth of expertise and scholarly rigor to the creation of this dictionary. Their editorial approach was characterized by a commitment to accuracy, clarity, and objectivity. They collaborated with a team of experts from various fields, including political science, history, and law, to ensure that each entry was thoroughly researched and verified.

The editors were particularly mindful of the evolving nature of political language. They sought to capture contemporary usage while also providing a historical perspective. This dual approach makes the dictionary not only a valuable reference for understanding current political terms but also a historical document that captures the political zeitgeist of the late 20th century.

Impact and Reception

Upon its publication, the “Dictionary of American Political Terms” was widely praised for its comprehensive coverage and clarity. It quickly became a go-to reference for anyone seeking to navigate the often confusing world of American politics. Scholars and educators appreciated its depth and accuracy, while journalists and political commentators found it to be an invaluable tool for interpreting and communicating political developments.

The dictionary has been cited in numerous academic works, highlighting its significance as a scholarly resource. Its influence extends beyond academia, as it has been used in classrooms, newsrooms, and legislative offices across the country.

Continuing Relevance

Although the dictionary was published in 2000, its relevance endures. The fundamental principles and concepts of American politics have remained largely consistent, and the historical context provided by the dictionary continues to be invaluable for understanding contemporary political issues. However, the evolving political landscape means that new terms and concepts have emerged since its publication. This has led to calls for updated editions that incorporate recent developments in American politics.

Conclusion

The “Dictionary of American Political Terms” edited by Hans Sperber and Travis Trittschuh stands as a testament to the enduring complexity and richness of American political language. It offers readers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the terms that shape political discourse in the United States. With its meticulous research, clear definitions, and historical context, this dictionary remains an essential resource for anyone seeking to engage with American politics in a meaningful and informed way.

In an era where political language continues to evolve rapidly, the dictionary’s role in providing clarity and insight is more important than ever. Its impact on the field of political science and its utility for a broad audience underscore its lasting value as a reference work. As political terminology continues to grow and change, future editions of this dictionary will undoubtedly continue to serve as an indispensable guide to the language of American politics.