Books with title Meet the House of Representatives

In the United States, ours is a government "of the people, by the people, for the people," according to Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address. But how did the federal and state branches of government get to be so complex—and why did a separation of powers evolve in the first place? Aiming to demystify many of these issues in terms modern students can understand, By the People examines the history of American government, making use of maps, charts, call-outs, and other infographic-packed features to spotlight memorable facts and bolster the surrounding narrative. "We the People" sidebars provide biographical sketches of key figures, from senators and presidents to justices and mayors. A historical survey of the United States House of Representatives, from its beginnings to present struggles, including its role in Congress and influential members.

"Here, sir, the people govern." So the Founding Father Alexander Hamilton characterized the House of Representatives, known to many as the "People's House." House members are always elected, never appointed, and serve only two-year terms. This ensures that new ideas are continually introduced into the legislative process. Yet the House has faced criticism for partisanship, gridlock, and inefficiency, and representatives for putting their own bids for reelection above the interests of the people. This book takes you into the heart of the House of Representatives. Learn about its origins and the debates between the Founders as they attempted to set up a new government. Discover the special duties of the House spelled out in the Constitution. Find out more about the relationship between the House and Senate, the importance of House committees, key pieces of legislation throughout history, and how a bill becomes a law. The actions of the House can have a lasting effect on Americans' daily lives. This volume of the Know Your Government series will clue you in on all the action.