Define the term political party and contrast the structures of the European and
American parties, paying particular attention to the federal structure of the
United States system and the concept of party identification.

Trace the development of the United States party system through its four
periods. Explain why parties have been in decline since the New Deal.

Describe the structure of a major party. Distinguish powerful from powerless
party units.

Indicate whether there are major differences between the parties. Describe
some of the issue differences between delegates at Democratic and Republican
conventions, and compare these differences with those of the party rank and
file.