This comprehensive resource explains with detail and clarity the evolution of presidential elections. Now updated to include full coverage of the 2008 contest between John McCain and Barack Obama, the book illustrates the means by which the president is elected—including the complexities of the Electoral College system. Readers will find information on: Who runs for president and how the process works from primaries to inauguration The contests held for every presidential election from 1789 to 2008 The impact of the primary and caucus systems Popular and electoral votes for all presidents from 1789 to 2008 The role of the Electoral College and related political debates A biographical directory of U.S. presidential and vice-presidential candidates Enhanced with data tables, maps, portraits of candidates, political cartoons, and other illustrations, this unique volume brings to life the history and processes behind presidential elections for a wide range of readers. Priced affordably with limited budgets in mind, this updated edition of Presidential Elections 1789-2008 will become an essential part of public, academic, and high school library collections.

From Washington to Obama, the single best source on U.S. presidential elections

Becomethe definitive reference on the subject.

First Published in 2001. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

Looking beyond the individual office holders to the office itself, this Fourth Edition of Vital Statistics on the Presidency covers George Washington’s tenure through the 2012 election. The book’s expansive view of the presidency allows readers to recognize major themes across administrations and to reach overall conclusions about the nature of the institution and its future. The illuminating data is put into context by thoughtful essays explaining key statistical patterns, making this edition an intriguing and comprehensive reference to important patterns throughout the history of the presidency.

This two-volume set contains full information on the U.S. electoral process, in-depth analysis on specific eras and issues, and everything in between.

These approximately 450 articles explore all topics relevant to American political campaigns, elections and electoral behaviour including some cross-cultural comparisons to help place American trends in a global context.