You won’t find it enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. While the tripartite structure of our government is outlined by that historic, nation-defining document, no references to political party appear within it. There’s nothing dictating the names or the philosophies of our major political parties, nor how many there should be. Democrats and Republicans rose to political dominance—with occasional but largely ineffectual challengers—starting in the 19th century, decades after the Constitution was written. 

Here we’ll discuss how we arrived at our two-party system: a story that includes some plot twists, name changes, and outliers along the way. 

Foundations of Our Country and the Two-Party System 

Sharp political divisions within the U.S. date back at least to George Washington’s time, when those of differing viewpoints separated themselves into two primary factions: the Federalists, led by Washington and John Adams, and Democratic Republicans, led by Thomas Jefferson. While these factions initially lacked formal Senate organization, they played significant roles in presidential elections. During the “Era of Good Feelings,” a decade starting in 1815, the Federalist Party disintegrated, and national unity briefly emerged. 

Over time, discord within the Democratic Republicans led to the rise of the National Republicans and the eventual formation of the Democratic and Whig Parties. By the 1830s and 1840s, these two parties began adopting enduring Senate customs—including seating arrangements split by party in the Senate Chamber—and clashed on issues from the Bank of the United States to slavery. The dissolution of the Whig Party over slavery led to the rise of the Republican Party, while the Democrats split along North-South lines, paving the way for the modern two-party system by the time of Reconstruction. 

Exceptions to the Rule 

Most Americans alive today take the two-party system of government for granted, though there are other parties, as well as independent (no party) public officials and candidates. As of this writing, there are three independent members of the Senate. Sometimes independent candidates are able to make the ballot for a presidential election, but for the most part, they’ve had trouble making significant inroads with the voting public. Divisive figures from Lyndon LaRouche to Ralph Nader have run for president under “alternative” party banners such as the U.S. Labor Party or the Green Party, to limited support. 

20th Century Party Schism and Realignment 

In 1948, southern Democrats who opposed their party’s support for racial desegregation splintered off into their own party, the Dixiecrats. Strom Thurmond ran for president as a representative of that party and scored some electoral votes, but not enough. Thurmond returned to the Democratic Party, but ultimately found the Republican Party aligned better with his views and in 1964 became a Republican. A limited number of fellow Dixiecrats followed suit, while those who remained Democrats continued to oppose civil rights issues, with many voting against the Civil Rights Act of 1964. 

Set Your Own Agenda With a Political Science Degree 

Get the broader picture of American government from The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Available online exclusively at this UT System institution, this program offers an exploration of the inner workings of our government branches; delves into the dynamics between local, state, and federal agencies; and provides insight into other political systems worldwide. The future educational and professional possibilities for political science degree holders are strong. Some go on to law school or a master’s program. Many find careers in the political or social sciences, government, or education. 

See potential jobs and earnings associated with this degree now. 

The Online Experience 

UTPB’s online political science degree provides the same caliber of education as our campus-based program, featuring identical curriculum and the same faculty of esteemed doctoral-level experts in political science. Our online program provides the flexibility to complete your studies from any location, at your own pace, enabling you to balance your academic pursuits with professional and personal obligations. As an online UTPB student, you’ll have access to a range of support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services. We’re committed to your success! 

Don’t toe the party line—set your own agenda for the future with a flexible, affordable, marketable bachelor’s degree. Apply now! 

Sources: 
https://www.history.com/news/two-party-system-american-politics
https://www.studentsofhistory.com/ideologies-flip-Democratic-Republican-parties
https://www.archives.gov/files/legislative/resources/ebooks/two-party-system.pdf
https://lithub.com/president-lincolns-republican-party-was-the-original-party-of-big-government/
https://www.npr.org/sections/itsallpolitics/2015/06/25/417154906/dixies-long-journey-from-democratic-stronghold-to-republican-redoubt