A timeline of voting rights in the United States
Only white male property owners over the age of 21 are allowed to vote.
The U.S. Constitution is ratified, leaving the regulation of voting rights to the individual states.
The 14th Amendment is ratified, granting equal protection under the law to all citizens, including former slaves.
The 15th Amendment is ratified, prohibiting the denial of voting rights based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude
The 19th Amendment is ratified, granting women the right to vote.
The Voting Rights Act is signed into law, prohibiting racial discrimination in voting practices, such as literacy tests and poll taxes.
The 26th Amendment is ratified, lowering the voting age from 21 to 18.
The Voting Rights Act Amendments of 1970 and 1975 expand protections against voting discrimination, particularly for minority language groups.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is enacted, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access to polling places and voting.
The National Voter Registration Act (NVRA), also known as the "Motor Voter Act," is signed into law, making it easier for eligible citizens to register to vote.
The Help America Vote Act (HAVA) is passed in response to the controversial 2000 presidential election, aiming to improve voting systems and accessibility.
Several states introduce and pass voting restrictions, including stricter voter ID requirements, limitations on mail-in voting, and reduced early voting periods.
Take a look at the journey a candidate must take before becoming the next President of the United States.
Take a look at the makeup of the 119th Congress following the 2024 elections.
