Alexander Keyssar is an American historian and Professor of History and Social Policy at Harvard University. His work focuses on the political history of the United States, particularly on suffrage and social reforms. Keyssar examines how political institutions and social norms evolve over time and how they impact the lives of ordinary people. His deep insights into the past offer valuable perspectives for understanding contemporary societal challenges.
The Electoral College has always been controversial. A compromise measure from day one, it has been a target of reformers in Congress since the early 1800s. Why has it persisted? Alexander Keyssar catalogs the many serious efforts to change the system, explains why they failed, and surveys the options for achieving a more democratic national vote.
Challenging the perception of a labor-scarce society, this book delves into the history of unemployment in the U.S., emphasizing its significance from the 19th century through the Great Depression. Focusing on Massachusetts, it reveals how economic and social transformations shaped modern unemployment concepts. Utilizing untapped sources, the author highlights the persistent joblessness faced by the working class and the coping strategies they developed in the absence of government support. The findings reflect broader national patterns, illustrating unemployment's deep impact on American life.