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Two Party System

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Why the United States has a Two-Party System
Beginning in its infant stage, the United States has consistently maintained two dominant political parties that initially included the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists who debated the ratification of the Constitution. Although the Federalists and the Ant-Federalists eventually gave way to the Republicans and Democrats, they set a precedent for the continued dominance of the two-party system that remains in effect. There are several reasons supporting why the United States has a two-party system which include the election laws, institutional barriers, and political socialization.
The election laws established various criteria that favors the major parties, thus perpetuating the two-party …show more content…

Most, if not all, of the political beliefs are manifested during childhood; and are immensely influenced by not only parents, but through media, religion, education, and peers. The parents tend to pass along heritage and tradition, and often link their family name with a political affiliation (Republican or Democrat). Education introduces children to politics and the election process through class elections and courses in government; and by debating issues that affect the schools such as funding and curriculum requirements. The media has become a primary source in educating children through constant news programming, and shows addressing contemporary issues relating to politics such as abortion, crime, and the economy. Peer influence within social groups , though with a limited impact, further contributes to the development of political attitudes by concentrating on common interests focusing mainly on lifestyle issues. Organized religion continues to have an impressionable influence in guiding political thought through religious practices and beliefs; and has traditionally had a strong impact in forming political views in accordance with their respective doctrine.
The United States has consistently maintained two dominant political parties that initially included the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists. The two-party system is self-perpetuating due to the election laws,

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