executive power

A brief survey of the American presidency, focusing on the issue of accountability, and the challenges of presidential leadership in a separated powers system of government, such as exists in the United States.

Chronicles the debate over the role of the states and the power of the Supreme Court played out in American history by Thomas Jefferson and John Marshall.

Traces the history of the American presidency, discussing how presidential power has changed over the last two centuries and profiling the men who have held the office and the changes they made.

Chronicles the military leadership of President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, his strategic insight, and how he often overstepped the boundaries of his political office to assume the role of commander in chief, ultimately changing the course of the war and saving the Union.

Presents a brief profile of the Watergate break in and President Nixon's attempt to fight the subpoena of tapes of Oval Office conversations.

Examines the controversial relationship between President Abraham Lincoln and Chief Justice Roger B. Taney, addressing such issues as their disagreements over slavery, secession, and Taney's decision in the Dred Scott case.

Molly Ivins reveals many instances where the Bill of Rights has been violated by the American government, exploring how political leaders have infringed on the individual rights of Americans in the name of national security.