Americans are divided by their political ideology or fundamental political beliefs. A group of citizens who have similar views on matters of public concern and who strive to translate their ideas into effective government actions is called a political party. Parties can be principle-driven, issue-driven, or election-driven; American parties fall into the latter category. Although the United States was founded without political parties, a two-party system developed from the competing factions. Andrew Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson, as leaders of the Federalist and Anti-Federalist groups, are often considered the "fathers" of the modern party system. In the 1850s, the country had a party system consisting of two major parties, which has remained relatively stable since. Political parties play several roles in government. They recruit, choose and present candidates for public office. They inform and mobilize their supporters through campaigns, defining issues and even criticizing other candidates. Parties act as a liaison ensuring that their candidate is worthy of election and will act based on their partisan affiliation or strong party allegiance. More importantly, they unite diverse interests and make collective action possible. Parties out of power act as watchdogs, closely monitoring the ruling party's actions for any errors or indiscretions to use against them in the next election. (p. 251-252) Most democratic countries have a multi-party system where many different ideologies are represented in government. Multi-party systems provide broader representation of the population and give voters more choice in elections. However, they can lead one party to form a coalition, which can easily dissolve, causing government instability. American voters... middle of paper ...... declare themselves independent. More and more people are rejecting party labels and registering as independents. However, leaners do feel affiliated with a party, but choose not to identify with a specific party. (p. 261-263) Political parties are liaison institutions between the government and the public. They hold the government responsible for its actions. Small parties develop ideas that larger parties adopt. In the United States, state governments largely control legal definitions of parties. Parties are organizations that sponsor candidates for political office under the party name with the goal of controlling and shaping government outcomes. Political parties focus on an agenda and are accountable to the public and the law. These issues were not addressed in the Constitution, but appear as a means for citizens to mobilize for political action..