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Literacy Tests

Definition

Literacy tests were requirements imposed on potential voters as a means of determining their ability to read and write before being allowed to vote. These tests were often used as discriminatory tools aimed at suppressing minority voter participation.

Analogy

Imagine having to solve complex math problems before being allowed into a movie theater. Literacy tests were like these unnecessary obstacles designed to prevent certain individuals from enjoying something they should have access to without any additional barriers.

Related terms

Voter Suppression: Voter suppression refers to any tactic or action taken with the intention of reducing voter turnout, particularly among specific groups such as minorities or low-income individuals.

Disenfranchisement: Disenfranchisement occurs when someone is deprived of their right to vote either through legal means (such as felony disenfranchisement) or illegal tactics (like voter intimidation).

Racial Discrimination: Racial discrimination refers to the unfair and unequal treatment of individuals based on their race or ethnicity. In the context of voting, this can manifest through policies or practices that disproportionately affect minority communities.