The American republic began in 1789, but it took a while for leaders and voters alike to organize themselves within a national framework, a process that would transform the nature of politics.

Martin Van Buren ... bid for reelection in 1840, Van Buren's reputation had been tarnished over economic issues and he faced what cynics might deem the first modern presidential campaign, complete ...

When Martin Van Buren arrived in Washington ... was more secure and its great issues settled.” Van Buren plowed ahead, with the thoroughly modern view that parties were not a regrettable ...