Ronald P. Formisano Libros

The book explores the evolution of populist political movements in America from the Revolution to just before the Civil War, highlighting the gap between the ideal of popular rule and the practice of elected representation. Ron Formisano aims to clarify and defend these movements against misrepresentations by both contemporary critics and later historians, providing a fresh perspective on their significance and complexities.

The book explores populist political movements from the American Revolution to just before the Civil War, highlighting the gap between the ideal of popular rule and the reality of representative governance. Ron Formisano analyzes movements like the Anti-Federalists and Know-Nothings, revealing their complex nature that combines both liberal and illiberal elements. He emphasizes the significant role of women in these movements and challenges traditional categorizations, advocating for a nuanced understanding of populism as central to American history rather than peripheral.

Focusing on antebellum Michigan, this study explores the emergence of mass political parties in the 1830s, highlighting the intense identification of white male voters with the Democratic and Whig parties. Ronald Formisano analyzes voter commitment and grassroots loyalties from the Jackson to Lincoln eras, suggesting that party formation was driven more by moral value conflicts, spurred by evangelicals, than by political economic issues. This examination provides insight into the social dynamics shaping American political culture during a transformative period.

This book explores the rise of the Tea Party movement from 2009-2010, fueled by grassroots enthusiasm and significant financial backing. It analyzes its influence on American politics amidst economic turmoil and cultural shifts, highlighting its remarkable emergence during a pivotal period.

This data-driven book offers insight into the fallacy of widespread opportunity, the fate of the middle class, and the mechanisms that perpetuate income disparity.