In an analysis of South Carolina's historical governorship from the prerevolutionary period to the beginning of the twenty-first century, this survey demonstrates the distinctive changes in the gubernatorial style, authority, and leadership from the past to the present. The authors analyze the formal and informal powers of the office and explore the possible roles the governmental office will play in the future. Complete with an appendix detailing the day in the life of a governor, this guidebook helps readers understand the influence and necessity of the governor's office on contemporary politics.