A History of Voting Rights and Inequality
The history of the ballot is as much a story of progress as it is of disparity. This Smithsonian article delves into the evolution of voting systems while highlighting the…
The Beautifully Creative World of 19th-Century Elections
In the 19th century, casting your vote wasn’t just a civic duty—it was an artistic experience. Election ballots were vibrant, intricately designed works of art that reflected the creativity and…
The Enduring Legacy of Mail-In Voting in America
Mail-in voting has a longer and richer history in the United States than many realize, offering a fascinating lens into the evolution of democracy. From soldiers casting ballots during the…
How Suffrage Shaped America
Since gaining the right to vote in 1920, women have continually reshaped the political landscape of the United States. This article explores the evolution of women’s voting patterns over the…
How Young Activists Won the Right to Vote
In the heat of the Vietnam War, young Americans faced the paradox of being drafted to fight without the right to vote. This sparked a wave of youth-led activism that,…
The Power and Perils of Public Opinion Polls in American Elections
Public opinion polls have long shaped the landscape of American elections, wielding the power to inform, influence, and even distort voter perceptions. The Smithsonian unpacks the complex history of polling,…
America’s First Test of Democracy
The election of 1800 was more than just a political contest—it was the first true test of American democracy. This pivotal moment in U.S. history saw bitter rivalries, heated debates,…
The Untold Story of America’s Political Color Divide
The Smithsonian explores the fascinating and often misunderstood origins of America’s political color coding. Far from tradition, this emerged only in the early 21st century. By uncovering the surprising story…