Final Answer:
"party polarization is purely a new thing in Congress and has never been seen before" is False becuase It is not a purely new phenomenon but a result of long-term ideological realignments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Party polarization in Congress is not a purely new phenomenon but has historical roots. Over the past several decades, there has been a noticeable increase in party polarization, with Democrats and Republicans becoming more ideologically distinct. This trend can be traced back to the mid-20th century and has been influenced by various factors, including shifts in the political landscape, changes in media, and the evolving priorities of the American electorate.
The post-World War II era saw the emergence of a more ideologically cohesive Democratic Party and a conservative resurgence within the Republican Party. The civil rights movement, cultural shifts, and economic changes contributed to the realignment of party platforms. The ideological divisions became more pronounced over time, leading to the contemporary level of party polarization observed today. While there were periods of relative bipartisanship in the past, the current state of polarization is not an entirely novel development in the history of the U.S. Congress.
Understanding the historical context of party polarization helps to dispel the notion that it is a recent and unprecedented occurrence. Instead, it is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon with deep historical roots, reflecting the evolving dynamics of American politics over the years.