The Sagebrush State: Nevada’s History, Government, and Politics

Nevada’s politics are in large measure the result of its turbulent history and harsh environment. Michael W. Bowers’s concise volume explains the dynamics of the political formation process, which is strikingly unique among the fifty states. Even today, Nevada is unlike the other states in its politics and culture: economically right, yet libertarian and home to widespread gaming and a 24/7 lifestyle. It has a high percentage of federally owned lands and one of the highest rates of urbanism in the United States, yet is often dominated by rural legislators.This comprehensive and insightful explanation discusses how Nevada’s history has shaped its political culture, and how its government operates today. The Sagebrush State serves as a highly readable and accessible text for the study of Nevada’s political history and constitution, which is a graduation requirement at the state’s colleges and universities. The fifth edition is updated through 2017 and includes the full text of the state constitution with extensive annotations of all amendments to the original 1864 document.

Reviews of The Sagebrush State: Nevada’s History, Government, and Politics

"A 312 page compendium providing an analytical overview of the state from its inception down to the present day. A seminal work of impressively detailed and documented scholarship, The Sagebrush State: Nevada's History, Government, and Politics is very highly recommended and instructive reading for students of Nevadan history and would make an important contribution to academic library American History and Political Science reference collections." –The Midwest Book Review "This concise work explains how Nevada government actually works and how the area's history has shaped its political culture." –Journal of the West "This is a volume that would be a worthwhile addition to the bookshelf of anyone looking for a reliable reference work on Nevada government and politics." –Western Historical Quarterly