Our Voting Journey: From Privilege to Right

For much of American history, the right to vote was a privilege, not a universal right. It was a power held by a select few, primarily white, land-owning men. The story of voting in America is one of continuous struggle, perseverance, and the expansion of democracy.

The Early Days: Limited Suffrage

When the United States was founded, most states restricted voting to white men over the age of 21 who owned property. This meant that the vast majority of the population – women, enslaved people, Native Americans, and men without property – had no voice in their government. The idea was that only those with a direct economic stake in society should have a say in its governance.

The Fight for Universal Male Suffrage

Throughout the early 19th century, property requirements for voting were gradually removed. By the mid-1800s, most white men, regardless of wealth, could vote. However, the shadow of slavery meant that for millions of African American men, this right was still denied.

The 15th Amendment: A Step Forward (and Back)

After the Civil War, the 15th Amendment was ratified in 1870, stating that the right to vote could not be denied "on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude." This was a monumental victory, yet it was quickly undermined by discriminatory practices in the South, such as poll taxes, literacy tests, and grandfather clauses, which effectively prevented most African Americans from exercising their right to vote for nearly another century.

The 19th Amendment: Votes for Women

The struggle for women's suffrage was a long and arduous battle. For decades, activists like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton campaigned tirelessly. In 1920, the 19th Amendment was ratified, granting women the right to vote. This doubled the eligible voting population and fundamentally changed the landscape of American politics.

The Civil Rights Movement and the Voting Rights Act of 1965

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s brought renewed attention to the systemic disenfranchisement of African Americans, particularly in the South. Marches, protests, and sustained advocacy led to the passage of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965. This act outlawed discriminatory voting practices, enforced the 15th Amendment, and significantly increased African American voter registration and turnout.

The 26th Amendment: Youth Voice

During the Vietnam War, young Americans were being drafted to fight but were not old enough to vote. This sparked the

Thinking About My Vote: My Role in Shaping the Future

This journal is a space for you to reflect on what we've discussed today about the power of voting and your role in democracy. Take your time to think deeply about each question and write your honest thoughts.

Prompt 1: The Echo of History

After learning about the historical struggles for voting rights, what aspect of that journey resonates most deeply with you? Why do you think it's important for current and future generations to remember this history?

Prompt 2: My Voice, My Community

We talked about how voting impacts local, state, and federal issues. Can you identify one specific issue in your community (e.g., school policy, local park, public transportation) that you feel passionate about? How could voting (or not voting) directly influence this issue?

Prompt 3: Being an Informed Citizen

What are some practical steps you can take right now to become a more informed citizen, even before you are eligible to vote? How will you ensure the information you consume about candidates and issues is reliable?

Prompt 4: My Future Vote

Looking ahead, what kind of impact do you hope to make with your vote when you are eligible? What values or priorities will guide your decisions at the ballot box?

Quick Check: Before We Begin

Welcome! Let's get our brains warmed up and think about today's topic. Please answer the following questions to the best of your ability. There are no right or wrong answers, just your thoughts!

Question 1: What does the word "vote" mean to you?

Question 2: Why do people vote? List at least two reasons.

Question 3: How do you think voting impacts your life or your community?

Reflect and Connect: Wrapping Up Our Discussion

Great work today! Let's take a moment to reflect on what we've learned and how you're feeling about the importance of your voice in democracy. Please answer the following questions.

Question 1: One Big Idea

What is one new or reinforced idea about voting or civic engagement that you're taking away from our discussion today?

Question 2: Why It Matters to Me

How has today's lesson changed or deepened your understanding of why voting is personally relevant to you?

Question 3: Future Citizen

What is one thing you might do in the near future (before you can vote) to engage more with civic life or stay informed about issues that matter to you?