Do Now - p. 56 Read the background on this cartoon Then answer the questions Then paste onto p. 56 Todays Objectives What is a third party? What are the different types of third parties? How do third parties affect elections? Third Parties in the U.S. Not everyone is satisfied with the two major political parties in the U.S. People frustrated with the status quo have formed alternative third parties There are four main types of third parties Single-issue party Formed to oppose or promote one issue Economic protest party Formed to promote economic growth or better times Ideological party Formed by people committed to a set of beliefs Splinter party Formed by people unhappy with a major party Notes p. 57 Third Party Sort Travel around the room to each of the third party descriptions For each party decide which of the four types they are and why Single-issue party Economic protest party Ideological party Splinter party Brainstorm Why might a third party be able to draw more attention to a particular issue than one of the two major political parties? What is one disadvantage third parties have against the two major political parties? Answer on p. 56 Third Parties in the U.S. Third parties call attention to issues that are eventually adopted by the major parties In general, third parties arent as strong as the Democrats and Republicans They find it hard to raise money and get media attention Notes p. 57 Reflection p. 56 Come up with your own idea for a third party Which type of third party would you want? What issues would you focus on? What would be the name of your party? What would be your party symbol? Extra points if you draw your party symbol Dont copy, just answer National Womens Party ( ) Purpose - Promoted voting rights for women Right to Life Party (1970-present) Purpose - Opposes legalized abortion Greenback Party ( ) Purpose Promoted use of paper money, silver coins, and the eight-hour work day Populist Party ( ) Purpose Protested economic conditions and government policies that hurt farmers Socialist Party of America ( ) Purpose Promoted government ownership of basic industries Libertarian Party (1971-present) Purpose Favors reducing the role of government in the lives of citizens Progressive Bull Moose Party ( ) Purpose Separated from the Republican Party to promote progressive reforms like national health care, relief for farmers, and womens right to vote States Rights Dixiecrat Party (1948) Purpose Separated from the Democratic Party to oppose desegregation