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Interesting Facts

Americans have fought for the right to vote

Over the years, U.S. citizens have worked hard to extend voting rights to everyone.

1787: When the Constitution was written, only white men age 21 or older who owned property could vote.
1807 - 1843: During these years, the states changed their rules so that all white men age 21 and older could vote – not just those who owned property.
1870: The Civil War led to the 15th Amendment to the Constitution. This amendment guaranteed the right to vote to all men age 21 and older, regardless of race or ethnic background.
1920: The 19th Amendment gave women age 21 and older the right to vote.
1964: With the 24th Amendment, states could no longer make people pay to vote in national elections.
1971: The 26th Amendment lowered the voting age to 18.

Congress and the courts have also ensured that no literacy, language or other tests can keep citizens from voting. The right to vote is precious – and it deserves to be used!

How Important is One Vote?

1645: ONE VOTE gave Oliver Cromwell control over England.
1776: ONE VOTE Gave America the English language instead of German.
1845: ONE VOTE brought Texas into the Union.
1849: ONE VOTE caused Charles I of England to be executed.
1866: ONE VOTE saved President Andrew Johnson from impeachment.
1875: ONE VOTE changed France from a monarchy to a Republic.
1876: ONE VOTE gave Rutherford B. Hayes the Presidency of the U.S.
1923: ONE VOTE gave Adolf Hitler leadership of the Nazi Party.
1941: ONE VOTE saved Selective Service just weeks before Pearl Harbor.

The right to vote is a precious gift in the United States. Be sure to use it, so we don’t lose it!