This book is based on a field study in which Hunter visited all cities of over a million population in the United States and many smaller cities interviewing the majority of a highly selected group of individuals regarded by their community peers as top national policymakers. The results is a book that lays bare the structure of national decisionmaking, showing how a distinct and recognizable group of men leads the American people.Originally published in 1959.A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.