In 2011, nine members of the faculty of what was then North Georgia College & State University’s Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice agreed to co‑author a textbook for POLS 1101, “American Government.” The first edition of The Basics of American Government, published by the University Press of North Georgia in 2011, was edited by Dr. Carl D. Cavalli, professor of political science, and Dr. Ross C. Alexander, then-head of the department. The purpose of the book was to offer a no-frills and low-cost, yet comprehensive, overview of the American political system for students taking the introductory course in American government.

A joint initiative between the book’s publisher and the University System of Georgia, through its Affordable Learning Georgia initiative, has resulted in the department textbook becoming available for all state-college and -university students for free! The authors are pleased that the book is now available for all students. The press is planning a book signing at the USG Teaching & Learning conference in April. The third edition of The Basics of American Government will appear in 2017.

Pictured: Co‑authors of the textbook include these faculty members. Seated (L to R): Dr. Jonathan S. Miner, Maria J. Albo, and Dr. K. Michael Reese. Standing (L to R): Dr. Charles H. “Trey” Wilson III, Dr. Barry D. Friedman, Dr. Carl D. Cavalli, and J. Derek Sutton.

Download the free digital version of The Basics of American Government at http://ung.edu/university-press/books/basics-of-american-government.php