The United States of America is a complex nation. At various times in its nearly 250-year history, the country's citizens have endured racism, poverty, and gun violence. They've been split apart and brought together by politics, news media, and ideas about what constitutes a basic human right. In this nonfiction series, early high schoolers will learn the history behind many social studies hot topics, including immigration, voting rights, and LGBTQ+ discrimination; how and why we continue to struggle today; and what's being done to improve those challenging aspects of living in America. Each title includes real-life profiles of people who are living the featured topic, factual sidebars, a glossary, and an index. The system of government in the United States has both united and divided Americans throughout the nation's nearly 250-year history. Fueled by activists, an abundance of fake news, polarizing media platforms, and an increase in hate crimes, political parties are deepening the divide between citizens. This nonfiction social studies title for young adults examines the origins and evolution of Democratic and Republican politics and each party's views on economic, social, racial, and gender issues, while offering solutions for healing the divide.

Includes sidebars, a glossary, a timeline, and profiles of presidents Richard Nixon and Donald Trump.