This document discusses the roots and evolution of American political culture and government. It covers the philosophical influences on America's founding, such as ideas from Aristotle, the Greeks, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau. It also examines the key characteristics of American democracy, including popular consent, majority rule, and individualism. Additionally, it outlines changes in the US population over time including increasing diversity and an aging population. The document concludes by looking at modern American political ideologies like conservatism, liberalism, and libertarianism as well as views of and expectations toward the government.