Reuben Hoar Library (Littleton)

The class of '74, Congress after Watergate and the roots of partisanship, John A. Lawrence

eng

Includes bibliographical references and index

platesillustrations

index present

non fiction

The class of '74

bibliography

1005832938

John A. Lawrence

Congress after Watergate and the roots of partisanship

"In November 1974, following the historic Watergate scandal, Americans went to the polls determined to cleanse American politics. Instead of producing the Republican majority foreshadowed by Richard Nixon's 1972 landslide, dozens of GOP legislators were swept out of the House, replaced by 76 reforming Democratic freshmen. In The Class of '74, John A. Lawrence examines how these newly elected representatives bucked the status quo in Washington, helping to effectuate unprecedented reforms. Lawrence's long-standing work in Congress afforded him unique access to former members, staff, House officers, journalists, and others, enabling him to challenge the time-honored reputation of the Class as idealistic, narcissistic, and naïve "Watergate Babies." Their observations help reshape our understanding of the Class and of a changing Congress through frank, humorous, and insightful opinions."--Dust jacket

Introduction : we came here to take the Bastille -- Toothless, sapless, and secretive -- Seeds of rebellion -- The class : diverse and determined -- The reinforcements -- The revolution -- Time to put on the long pants -- Thermidor -- The Republican reformers -- Revolution or skirmish? -- Before you can save the world, save your seat -- Coda for reform -- Reform and the rise of polarization -- Conclusion : a hinge point in history

Class of 1974