POLSC 340 The American Presidency

This course examines the historical evolution of the American presidency from the Constitutional Convention through the current administration. It focuses on the constitutional development of the presidency, from Washington's role as the reluctant "citizen-soldier" to the current reasoning that the American president will set the agenda not only for the United States but also for the world. The presidency's changing relationships with Congress, the Supreme Court, the state governments, and "the people" and the important role campaigns play in shaping the expectations surrounding a presidential administration also serve as themes.