It is not that there is no better book on this subject, there is no other book on this subject. Ralph Goldman knows more about the organizational history of our national parties than anyone else--and he has written it all down. More than that he has written it down in a compelling way. -- L. Sandy Maisel, Colby College Ralph Goldman has recreated the birth of our modern two-party system in vivid detail. The book is a fascinating blend of historical fact and political intrigue. This book should be required reading for all those interested in American politics. -- Frank J. Fahrenkopt, Jr., Hogan & Hartson, former Republican National Chairman