Legislating Revolution: The Contract with America in Its First 100 Days

Well, if this was 1997, I would consider Gimpels book to be very good, but considering the historical distance, that compels me to knock a few notches off. Consider that the line-item veto was declared unconstitutional in 1998. Of course, this was not mentioned in the book. That could lead to incomplete research on behalf of the student. Also consider the 104th Congress tax proposal. He mentioned the proposal. He mentioned the debates, but at the end of the chapter, he did not make clear to the reader what was passed in the House. Plus, considering the historical distance, the reader never knew what happened to the bill in the Senate or if it got vetoed. These are some aspects taht can lead to inadequate research on behalf of the student.Plus take into account of the 1994 election. He explained why the Republicans won with such a landslide in many House races. But, these critiques were his own ideas, with very littel factual support. I would argue that the economic slump caused by Reaganomics, plus a high rate of divorce that led many teens/young adults confused and angry is what led to some aspects of the Republican Revolution. Also keep in mind that early to mid 90's was known as "the age of rage." We faced Waco, Ruby Ridge, OK City, Rodney King and the LA Riots. If we take Gimpel's arguments, then we would have to dismiss many social scientists assesment that when the economy is good, society looks for ways to help. When the economy is stagnant, the focus is put on self. Do not be misled. If a student was doing a report on the Contract With America, this would be a good starting point. Abundant information is available through reading the book. Make sure that you also read other books written later on the subject.