American Political Rhetoric provides students the means to pursue a political wisdom which is essential for free citizens in a democratic-republic. Political wisdom, as opposed to mere facts, requires depth of study as well as breadth, and that depth is to be found in the investigation of fundamental and (often opposing) arguments. Triumphant arguments may be confronted anew when circumstances call them into question once again, and losing arguments may again be resurrected, showing that ideas are more powerful and enduring than events. The 8th edition retains the essential arguments surrounding the founding and development of American democracy, while bringing up to date the critical political disputes of our own time.