The Electoral College: Creation, Evolution, Controversy

The 2024 election looms. Up for grabs are the House of Representatives, one-third of the Senate, and most importantly, the Presidency. The presidential election immediately leads to questions about the uniquely American method of electing our chief executive. Is the Electoral College a good fit for 21^st-century America or a relic of the past? This course explores the creation of the Electoral College and its evolution over nearly two-and-a-half centuries. As the course proceeds, we’ll look at closely contested presidential elections (e.g., 1800, 1876, 1960, 2000) to examine the relationship between the popular vote and actual electoral results.

Readings:

Suggested readings and course-related materials will be provided during the course.

Jim Bunting is a retired lawyer and American history instructor. He holds a BA from Rutgers University, a JD from the University of Michigan, and a MALS degree specializing in American history from Duke University.

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