"As the states gain prominence in the political arena and rural areas increase in population, a new perception of the importance of rural state politics is called for. Frank M. Bryan investigates political processes in three rural states–Montana, Mississippi, and Vermont–representing the western, southern, and eastern regions of the United States. Using these states to note similarities and variations in the model, he describes how the political systems of rural states operate overall and then presents a detailed comparative analysis of the three states in terms of political participation, parties and elections, and legislative policymaking. In a final essay he identifies the kinds of political patterns that may be found in rural states in the future. One major contribution of the book lies in its reliance on extensive data sets, used for the first time to provide in-depth comparative treatment of rural states"
"Dr. Bryan, assistant professor of political science at the University of Vermont, is the author of Yankee Politics in Rural Vermont. "
Also of Interest -- Introduction: Country Songs for City Folks -- Country Mouse and City Mouse -- Rural States in an Urban Nation: Patterns of Politics -- Participation in the Rural States -- Party Competition in the Rural States -- The Primary Systems -- The Legislature: People Who Serve -- The Legislature: Voting Behavior and Public Policy -- A Concluding Essay: Life Without Cities—Techno-Politics in Rural America -- Bibliographical Remarks
