Here is a reference work that is also meant to be a teaching tool, helping its readers comprehend the complex processes and development of the legislative branch of the U.S. government. It describes in simple language selected persons, events, and terms associated with Congress, including arcane terms such as Blue-slip procedure, Morning hour, andShadow senators. Also included are significant court cases, major elections, scandals, and other controversies and many of the rules and customs that regulate congressional behavior.
The signed articles are arranged alphabetically from Abscam to Yielding, with a list of entries, an index, and cross-references enabling the user to find material. Further readings at the end of each article and a selected bibliography of print materials direct readers to other sources. Some black-and-white illustrations and a few tables supplement the text.
Written by an expert on the topic, this comprehensive A-to-Z volume contains all the material a reader needs to understand the United States Congress, including the people, events, and terms involved in the legislative branch of government. It also provides explanations of the relationships between the legislative and other branches of government, court cases, elections, political opponents, congressional leaders, scandals, controversial issues, and the inner workings of Congress. Entries include: Backdoor spending; Tom DeLay; Filibuster; Impeachment powers; Lobbying; Thomas P. "Tip" O'Neill, Jr.' Pork barrel; Racial gerrymandering; Recess appointments; Savings-and-loan crisis; Speaker of the House; and Daniel Webster.