As the 2020 elections, the riots at the Capitol, and the impeachment of President Trump demonstrate, the United States has become a very polarized nation. Historians Kevin Kruse and Julian Zelizer, in their book Fault Lines, outline a myriad of causes of this polarization. In this paper, which will be your final assignment of the semester, you must: Explain, based on your reading of Kruse and Zelizer’s book, what you think have been the three or four most important causes of division in American society over the last 50 years. Consider economic, social and political factors that have divided Americans. Chapters 1 through 4 and 7 will help you to answer this question. Explain whether you think Americans can overcome their polarization (why or why can’t Americans resolve their division?). This should be your opinion supported by evidence. Conclude with a final evaluation of Kruse and Zelizer’s book.
