Political Participation and Voting Rights

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to political participation and voting rights, focusing on historical amendments, legislation, and factors affecting voter turnout.

Midterm Exam

An in-person assessment with 25 multiple choice questions and two short answer options, scheduled for next week.

Voter Competence

The ability of individuals to make informed and sound political judgments when voting.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Legislation that eliminated many barriers preventing African-Americans and other racial minorities from voting.

15th Amendment

Constitutional amendment declaring that the right to vote cannot be denied based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude.

19th Amendment

Constitutional amendment that granted women the right to vote in 1920.

26th Amendment

Constitutional amendment that lowered the voting age to 18 in 1971.

Electoral Competitiveness

The degree to which elections are contested, affecting voter motivation and turnout.

Political Efficacy

The belief in one's ability to understand and influence political processes.

Voter Registration Requirement

A process in which individuals must register to vote before being eligible to participate in elections.

Election Fatigue

Decreased voter turnout due to the high frequency of elections.

Structural Explanations

Factors related to the organization and scheduling of elections that influence voter turnout.

Institutional Explanations

Variations in laws and policies across states that affect voter registration and participation.

Individual Explanations

Personal reasons, beliefs, and attitudes that contribute to low voter turnout rates.

Civil Rights

The rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality.

Non-Citizens Voting

Currently, non-citizens are prohibited from voting in federal elections, but some localities allow it.

Voter Turnout

The percentage of eligible voters who participate in elections.

Political Machines

Political groups that maintain control through patronage and often engage in corrupt practices.

Voter Fraud

The act of voting illegally, such as casting more than one vote or voting under false identities.