This course explores the force that make the Midwestern states so critical in the balance of governmental and political power. The goals of the course are to gain a better understanding of Midwestern politics by examining how demographic, economic, historical, cultural and migration patterns impact voting and policy decision in eight Midwestern states (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin). Students will gain an understanding of forces at play in the Midwest region as a whole and in individual states and their combined impact on American politics and government. (One course).