The Libertarian Party was founded in 1971 in Denver by a small group of Republicans and Democrats. This group had become disillusioned with the corruption of the two main political parties in the United States. These men and women established a new party based on the principle that the government that governs best is the government that governs least.1 The Libertarian Party is the third largest political party in the U.S. with over 270 elected officials currently serving around the country. The primary difference between the Libertarian party and the two major parties is that the Libertarians ask how fast government will shrink while the others argue how fast the government should grow. Contrary to what some people think, Libertarians do not want to stop educating the public, allow the poor to starve, and eliminate the military. Libertarians call for self-government, combining tolerance with personal responsibility. The Libertarian system respects the individual and encourages one to discover the best within themselves and develop one's full potential. Individuals are allowed to live freely as long as they do not infringe on anyone else. This means the government has no business writing laws to suppress sexual orientation, abortion rights, right-to-die choice, and the freedom of speech. All people are encouraged to choose what they want from life. Each individual has the right to control his or her own body, action, speech and property. Government's only role is to help individuals defend themselves from force and fraud. The Libertarian's view of the life and governmental actions is greatly displayed in their preamble:.
"Libertarians believe that each of us should be allowed to plan his or her own future. We believe that individuals have the right to deal with their own problems. This can be done individually or by working with others in a peaceful and honest way. We reject the initiation of force by anyone, including government.