Identify the four systems of presidential selection that the United States had during its history. What has been the overriding reason for the changes that have taken place?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The first system was used from 1788 until 1828 and centered on the Electoral College. Party nominees were recommended by congressional caucuses, although electors were somewhat independent in their voting. The second system involved the use of the party convention, and was in place from 1832 to the early twentieth century. Party nominees were chosen in national party conventions by delegates selected by state and local party organizations; and Electoral College members cast their ballots for the popular-vote winner in their respective states. The third system was the party convention/primary system, used from the early twentieth century until 1968. This system was similar to the second system, in that most convention delegates were chosen by the party organizers, although some were now selected through primary elections. The fourth system came into being after the 1968 election and is the party primary/open caucus system. Here the majority of national convention delegates are chosen through primary elections and open caucuses, and thus the key factor is support of rank-and-file voters. Each succeeding system was justified as being more legitimate in that it granted ordinary citizens a greater voice in the selection of a president.