An encyclopedia unlike any other, this work focuses on lobbying, corruption, and political influence in America to inspire readers to think critically about the U.S. government and to appreciate the opportunities of citizenship. It provides balanced and fair information about three of the murkiest but most powerful forces in American politics and government and covers a wide range of pertinent events, people, organizations, institutions, jurisprudence, and laws from the Credit Mobilier affair in the 19th century to the conviction of Jack Abramoff in the 21st century. Contains primary source material.