How the progressive movement created the American idea—and American ideals.

In The Progressive Revolution, noted political strategist and blogger Michael Lux argues that progressives today are fighting to improve America, as they always have, in contrast to conservatives, who have always worked to defend the status quo and the interests of elites.

Drawing on a deep knowledge of American history and the ways of Washington, and writing in a clear, accessible style, Lux shows how progressives have time and again been instrumental in creating positive change, whether in the realm of civil rights, electoral democracy, civil liberties, women's rights, or economic fairness. He argues that as a new administration takes office in 2009 the time is ripe for a new big change moment, and he outlines how he believes progressive policies can be channeled to solve the big problems facing us today.

Having worked in five presidential campaigns and played a role in developing important new progressive organizations, Lux knows his subject better than most. His book is an intellectual Swiss Army knife for readers interested in politics and history—and in a progressive future for America.

Michael Lux, author of The Progressive Revolution, served at the White House from January 1993 to mid-1995 as a Special Assistant to the President for Public Liaisons. He is the cofounder and CEO of the political consulting firm Progressive Strategies. He blogs at OpenLeft.com.