The political factors underlying the ability of the Illinois Board of Higher Education to prevent the development of additional new campuses as part of the University of Illinois are analyzed. The primary factors underlying the board's success are: (1) its investment in winning the issue because of the threat to its goals and survival; (2) the use of language and political symbolism; and (3) disinterest of significant political actors. Information is drawn from the printed public record (board and university reports, board and university trustee board minutes, and advisory committee reports), news articles and editorials, and individual interviews. Background information is provided on the organizational history of Illinois public higher education and growth in the 1960's. (Author/MSE)