1. The History of Voting
American Government

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

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

4. The History of Voting Pyramid1 2 3 4 5 6

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

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

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

8. Step 4
th Amendment
Gave all women the right to vote

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

10. Step 6
th Amendment
Lowers voting age to 18

11. 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.