The Thirteen American Arguments: Enduring Debates that Define and Inspire our Country

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The Thirteen American Arguments: Enduring Debates that Define and Inspire our Country by Howard Fineman

As you read the book this summer, take notes on the following for all 13 “arguments.” (see next page for note-taking template)

1. Who is a Person?

2. Who is an American?

3. The Role of Faith

4. What Can We Know and Say?

5. The Limits of Individualism

6. Who Judges the Law?

7. Debt and the Dollar

8. Local v. National Authority

9. Presidential Power

10. The Terms of Trade

11. War and Diplomacy

12. The Environment

13. A Fair, “More Perfect” Union Each argument its own stand-alone chapter

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For each argument / chapter, note the following (about ½ page per chapter) ● In your own words, write a brief summary of this chapter. In other words, what is the essence of this debate? (1-2 sentences) ● What do two main sides of this debate each believe? ● What types of people support each side? (e.g. this could include broad political ideologies / specific political parties, historical figures, etc.) ● List key IDs / specific terms you notice in this chapter that you notice are particularly important for your future AP course. In other words, you’re previewing the AP Gov or AP Macro courses. What do you expect to see again?