Who Could Vote in U.S. Elections?

Who Could Vote in U.S. Elections?

Published: Sep 8, 2025
Contributor: Beth Ginsberg
License: CC BY NC SA 4.0 license – Allows revisions and additions but forbids commercial use.

This module explores the evolution of voting rights in American democracy, highlighting how access to political participation has historically depended on factors like race, gender, property ownership, religion, and age. Through an interactive classroom activity comparing who could vote for George Washington versus Donald Trump, students reflect on the progress and remaining limitations in voter inclusion. The in-class assignment encourages critical thinking about citizenship, civic engagement, and ways to expand and strengthen democratic participation today.

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