Politics of Authenticity in Presidential Campaigns, 1976 - 2008

"Ideas of "authenticity" became central to presidential campaigns in the late 20th century. Beginning in 1976, Americans elected six presidents who represented evolving standards of authenticity. Interacting with the media and their publics, these successful presidential candidates structured their campaigns and images around the projection of authenticity and connecting with voters as "one of us."--Provided by publisher.