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Universal Suffrage

Definition

Universal suffrage refers to the right of all adult citizens to vote in elections, regardless of their gender, race, or social status. It ensures that every eligible individual has an equal opportunity to participate in the democratic process.

Analogy

Imagine a school where every student gets a say in choosing the class president. Regardless of their background or popularity, every student's vote counts equally towards determining who will lead the class.

Related terms

Voter Suppression: The deliberate act of preventing certain groups from exercising their right to vote through various means such as restrictive laws or intimidation tactics.

Franchise: The term used to describe the right to vote and participate in political elections.

Enfranchisement: The process of granting individuals the right to vote who were previously denied this privilege due to factors like race, gender, or age.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.