Party and Nation: Immigration and Regime Politics in American History

Party and Nation explores how immigration has shaped American political parties, highlighting the shift from a multiculturalist Democratic Party to a nationalist Republican Party. This reflects a broader regime change in the U.S., where multiculturalism and nationalism have become central to the ideological and coalitional bases of both parties. The book argues that this departure from the first American political regime, grounded in natural rights and national culture, highlights the tensions inherent in the commitment to these principles. The debates over immigration have become a defining feature of modern American politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 330 pages
Publication date: 21 June 2021
Publisher: Lexington Books

Party and Nation delves into the intricate relationship between immigration and party competition in American history, offering a comprehensive analysis. The rise of Donald Trump signifies a profound shift in the political landscape of the United States, characterized by the emergence of multiculturalism and nationalism as pivotal elements in the ideological and coalitional foundations of the major parties. This remarkable phenomenon, according to the authors, represents a significant departure from the initial political regime established during the Founding generations. The earlier regime was rooted in a steadfast commitment to the principle of natural rights and the cultivation of a national culture to uphold that principle.

The ongoing debates over immigration serve as a stark illustration of the tensions inherent in this commitment. The authors present a detailed exploration of the various permutations of the first regime, unfolding amidst the territorial expansion of the country and the tragic conflicts over slavery and segregation. As the nation underwent industrialization, witnessed a massive influx of immigrants at the turn of the 20th century, and witnessed the rise of the progressive administrative state, the parties embarked on a transformative journey that ultimately led to their current plebiscitary institutions.

This new political reality has brought forth a unique situation wherein the debate over immigration not only sheds light on the differing perspectives of the parties but has also begun to shape and define them. The authors argue that the interplay between immigration and party competition has become a defining feature of American politics, shaping the political landscape and influencing public opinion in profound ways.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 219 x 154 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498543101