Thorough yet concise, the popular AMERICAN GOVERNMENT, BRIEF VERSION, TENTH EDITION emphasizes the historical development of the American political system, who governs, and to what end. It offers insightful coverage of all aspects of U.S. politics, including the Constitution, civil liberties and rights, Federalism, public opinion, the media, political parties, and elections, three branches of federal government, bureaucracy, and policymaking. Completely up to date, the text includes new coverage of the 2010 campaigns and elections; leadership of President Obama and the 111th Congress; the economic downturn and new policies to combat the crisis; healthcare reform; recent changes to the Supreme Court; same-sex marriage; and the war in Afghanistan.