"The second edition of this Very Short Introduction focuses on the challenges facing American presidents in meeting the high expectations of the position in a separation of powers system. This masterly revision explores critical issues that are object of contemporary debate and shows how the American presidency evolved over the past 200 years and where it may go in the future."--Publisher information.

Includes index.

Inventing the presidency -- The presidency finds its place -- Electing presidents (and other ways to occupy the oval office) -- Making and remaking a presidency -- Connecting to and leading the government -- Presidents at work: making law and doing policy -- Reform, change, and prospects for the future -- Appendix: Presidents and Vice Presidents of the United States of America.