The secret is out and the "experts" aren't pleased. In The Keys to the White House, 1996, prominent political analyst and historian Allan J. Lichtman applies the revolutionary system with which he has analyzed every presidential election since 1860 to this year's landmark contest. While most media coverage will focus on the twists and turns of the campaign trail, The Keys to the White House, 1996 dismisses conventional campaign coverage and convincingly demonstrates why the factors that are truly relevant in electing the president have already been determined. Sure to be as controversial as it is compelling, The Keys to the White House, 1996 debunks numerous myths and sacred cows uncritically accepted by those who analyze presidential elections. Lichtman illuminates the real significance of the economy, ideology, scandal, social unrest, foreign affairs, third parties, and candidates' charisma. Furthermore, Lichtman explains why media coverage and campaign strategies - negative or positive - do not affect the outcome of presidential races.