The Political Parties

The United States government is not ruled by a common idea shared by everyone. Instead, there are groups (called parties) that have different views, ideas, and opinions. Members of the different parties campaign against each other in elections and debates.

There are two main parties in the United State political system:

1.) The Democratic Party - this is the oldest party in the United States, notably under Thomas Jefferson back in 1800. This party is known to favor "liberal" positions on matters. People in this party are known as "the left," referring to their spot on the political spectrum. The symbol of this party is the donkey.

2.) The Republican Party - this party was founded around the 1850s notably under Abraham Lincoln. This party favors "conservative" positions on matters. People in this party are known as "the right" referring to their spot on the political spectrum. The symbol of this party is the elephant.

These two parties are known to oppose each other in views and ideas and constantly campaign against each other (conservatives vs. liberals)

In addition to these parties there are other minor parties such as the Green Party and the Libertarian Party. Since these parties are smaller then the main ones, it is difficult for them to achieve political positions.

*Did you know? That George W. Bush, our current President, is part of the Republican Party?*