摘要：The author analyzes the specific features of the American political system, its structure, and the political effects that it produces. She particularly pays attention to the '92 congressional elections which in relation to previous ones carried a number of novelties: for the first time, more women, members of ethnic communities and young people, were elected to the House of Representatives. The changes in the composition of Congress are the result of three essential factors: first, the long battle for the recognition of civil rights, especially for women; second, the inclination of the electoral body to limit the congressional term of office; and third, a wider possibillity to tailor electoral units so that minorities can become majorities and secure a larger representation in Congress.
