The History of Voting American Government

Who has the right to vote today in the United States?

Do any of you have someone in your family history who was not allowed to vote at some time?

The History of Voting Pyramid 1 2 3 4 5 6

Step 1 Originally, only white, land-owning men could vote They were considered the “smartest”

Step 2 1852 - Andrew Jackson “Universal Manhood Suffrage” All men (white) could vote, regardless if they own land or not

Step 3 1870 - 15th Amendment Gave black men the right to vote Unofficial restrictions Poll tax Literacy tests Grandfather clause

Step 4 1920 - 19th Amendment Gave all women the right to vote

Step 5 1965 - Voting Rights Act Civil Rights Movement Black men officially have right to vote with no more restrictions

Step 6 1971 - 26th Amendment Lowers voting age to 18

Who can vote today? Must be citizen of the US. Must be at least 18 years old. Must be a resident of your state. Must register to vote.