By reading this chapter, you will be able to do the following:

1.1 Explain how diverse Americans have used the political process to make claims on their fundamental rights and freedoms.

1.2 Define the key elements of American political culture.

1.3 Identify the political, social, and economic events and institutions that gave rise to the American Revolution and reflect upon what was and was not achieved.

1.4 Describe the core features of American political institutions.

1.5 Reflect on the ways in which the “Letter from Birmingham Jail” draws upon core American ideals.