One major party in American politics, the Democrats, has consciously identified itself with underdogs. This book analyzes the relationship between the party and the main political ideology of its base: liberalism.

"The Underdog in American Politics "is an original analysis of how the underdog concept applies to the Democratic Party and American politics and culture. In particular, it analyzes how the power of the underdog has shaped, and reflected, the politics of Democrats running for president. From Thomas Jefferson to Barack Obama, the author uses biography, ideology, campaign strategy and public policies to depict the many different points of contact between Democrats and underdogs. The core values of equality, fairness and non-discrimination are analyzed. The role of sympathy and empathy towards underdogs is also examined.