In 1812, the Napoleonic Wars in far-off Europe began a chain of actions that would lead the United States into war against Britain and its colonies in Canada in the New World. This fascinating book reveals how U.S. president James Madison declared war on Britain for harming U.S. trade with Europe by naval blockade, for impressing U.S. citizens into the service of the British Royal Navy, for siding with Native Americans against the U.S., and for standing in the way of American expansion to the north into Canada.
What began as a day to celebrate the birthday of George Washington, the first president of the United States of America, has grown to include every other president to serve as leader of the country. Learn all about Presidents' Day, from its earliest beginnings to how Americans celebrate this occasion today. Children will love this easy-to-understand introduction of this important national holiday.
Sonia Sotomayor became a household name when President Barack Obama nominated her to the United States Supreme Court in 2009. Her confirmation made her the country's first Hispanic Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. But even before that, Sonia was an inspiration to others. Sonia Sotomayor has built a life as a jurist, activist, and mother, committed to the rights and advancement of people of all backgrounds and ethnicities.
The executive branch of the United States government is responsible for putting laws into action. This book carefully explains the workings of the executive branch, from its most visible figure, the President, through to the vice president, cabinet, and executive departments and agencies. Key roles such as the Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, and Attorney General are profiled. A comparison to other executive powers in state and local governments, as well as other countries, is also included.
Examples are used to illustrate how many laws began as grass-roots initiatives, and how much a law can change from the time it is first suggested to the time it is approved.
Emphasis is placed on how all levels must work together to succeed and examples are presented demonstrating how all levels of government contribute to the lives of every citizen.
The legislative branch of the United States government represents the people and makes the laws which they live by. This book introduces readers to the House of Representatives and Senate, and the main players in both. Whips, committees, and filibusters are also discussed. A comparison to other legislative bodies in state and local governments, as well as in other countries, is also included.
The judicial branch of government consists of the nations courts. This title explores the role of the United States Supreme Court and its role in interpreting the U.S. Constitution, as well as the role of Federal Courts. Justices and judges, and how they are selected for their jobs is also provided. A comparison to other judicial bodies in state governments, as well as in other countries, is also included.
This book provides essential information on all aspects of the election process. How is a government elected? is packed with plenty of full-color images to help deliver a fundamental message: that the right to vote is one of the cornerstones of a free and democratic society.
With fossil fuels and water running out, and temperatures and sea levels rising due to climate change, whole communities will need to move and resettle. How will human migrations on this scale be managed in our modern world? This foreward-looking book explores these important issues as well as the solutions being put forward by politicians, experts, NGOs, and private citizens.
As our world becomes smaller, how do governments and citizens manage and react to migration and settlement? Themes explored in this intriguing book include: rights and lawsfreedom of movement across borders, human rights, seeking asylum, and immigration controls; the different types of migrantsasylum seekers, refugees, illegal immigrants, the undocumented labor force; coping with migrationmigrants need safety, schooling, health care, and housing.
