How America Became a Two-Party Nation | Civics Made Easy

In this episode of Civics Made Easy, host Ben Sheehan unpacks America’s complex relationship with political parties, from George Washington’s wariness to today’s two-party dominance. Through a conversation with Independent Senator Angus King and an exploration of various states’ voting systems, Sheehan explains how our current system evolved, why third parties struggle to compete, and what reforms could change the political landscape.

About the Author:

Niles Mattier is a faculty member at Bridgewater State University, teaching pre-service teachers in the College of Education and Health Sciences. Previously, he taught in the graduate school of education at Bank Street College of Education and worked as an ENL, special education, and history teacher in Boston and New York City.