In 19th-century Europe, two political commentators stood head and shoulders above all the others for their historical acumen, their sensitivity to impending changes and revolutions, the coherence of their philosophy, their sense of destiny and their far-sightedness. Both were equally famous - revered and scorned in equal measure. But one - Karl Marx - went on to dominate and crucify the 20th century, while de Tocqueville sank into the backwaters. This book by de Tocqueville is a classic of political analysis and a convincing critique of American politics and society.