An analysis of the issue of abortion in the context of its effects on American political institutions. This book traces the history of Supreme Court decisions such as Roe v Wade, and reveals the pivotal part they have played as benchmarks in the legal and political history of abortion in the USA.

Abortion, the great moral, legal and political controversy of our generation is analyzed in the context of its effects on American political institutions. The authors, both public law scholars, reveal how abortion issues have changed the American presidency, the Congress, the courts, interest groups, and state politics. The discussion of the evolution of the abortion issue includes analyses of the Roe v Wade decision of 22 January 1973 and Webster v Reproductive Health Services decision. It traces the history of these Supreme Court decision and reveals the pivotal role they have played in the legal and political history of abortion in the United States.

Roe v Wade, the Burger Court, and American politics
interest activities after Roe - the mobilization of conflict
a reluctant Congress and the abortion controversy
abortion and presidential politics
the states and the abortion politics - from Roe to Webster
the tide turns - the Rehnquist Court and Webster v Reproductive Health Services
public opinion and abortion - what the polls show
abortion and national politics after Webster
abortion and state politics after Webster
abortion and the courts after Webster.