10/22 Political Participation Quiz (First Half) Flashcards
15th Amendment
Ratified in 1870, this amendment prohibited the federal and state governments from denying a citizen the right to vote based on “race, color, or previous condition of servitude.” Although it was a significant step toward racial equality, discriminatory practices still limited African Americans’ voting rights for nearly a century afterward.
17th Amendment
Passed in 1913, the 17th Amendment established the direct election of U.S. senators by the people of each state, replacing the previous method of selection by state legislatures. This shift was intended to reduce corruption and make senators more accountable to the public, aligning their interests more closely with those of their constituents.
19th Amendment
Ratified in 1920, the 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote, marking a major victory for the women’s suffrage movement in the United States. This amendment significantly expanded the electorate and was a critical step toward gender equality in political participation.
24th Amendment
Ratified in 1964, the 24th Amendment abolished poll taxes in federal elections. Poll taxes had been used primarily in Southern states to disenfranchise African American voters and low-income individuals. The amendment was a key part of the civil rights movement’s efforts to make voting more accessible to all citizens.
26th Amendment
Passed in 1971, the 26th Amendment lowered the voting age from 21 to 18. This change was largely driven by arguments that individuals old enough to be drafted into military service during the Vietnam War should also have the right to vote.
Voter Registration
The process by which eligible citizens sign up to vote in elections, typically requiring proof of identity, age, and residency. Voter registration is meant to ensure that only eligible voters cast ballots and can involve steps like filling out forms, providing identification, and sometimes re-registering if a person moves or changes their name.
Rational Choice Voting
A voting behavior theory that suggests individuals make decisions based on a rational calculation of which candidate or policy will best serve their personal interests. This approach assumes voters weigh the benefits and costs of each option before making their choice.
Retrospective Voting
When voters decide whom to support in an election based on their evaluation of a candidate’s or party’s past performance in office. If the current administration or elected officials have governed effectively, voters are more likely to re-elect them; if not, they may seek change.
Prospective Voting
A voting strategy where individuals choose a candidate based on their predictions of how well that candidate will perform in the future. Voters consider the promises and proposed policies of the candidates to determine who is most likely to positively impact their lives.
Party-Line (Straight Ticket) Voting
Voting for all candidates from a single political party on the ballot, rather than selecting candidates from different parties for different offices. This behavior indicates strong loyalty to a political party and its platform.
Political Efficacy
The belief that one’s actions, such as voting or participating in political activities, can influence government policies and decisions. High political efficacy means that people feel their involvement matters, while low efficacy indicates a sense of powerlessness in affecting change.
Party Identification
An individual’s psychological attachment to a particular political party, often developed through socialization and personal experiences. Party identification shapes political views and voting behavior, as people tend to support the party that aligns with their values and beliefs.
Ideological Orientation
A person’s consistent set of political beliefs about the role of government, economic policies, and social issues. Ideological orientations range from liberal to conservative, with varying degrees of support for government intervention and individual liberties.
General Elections
Elections held at regular intervals where voters make the final decision on which candidates will hold public office. General elections usually include races for national offices, like the presidency and Congress, as well as state and local positions.
Mid-Term Elections
Elections that occur halfway through a president’s four-year term. These elections determine the composition of Congress, state legislatures, and other state and local offices. Mid-term elections often serve as a referendum on the sitting president’s performance.
Linkage Institutions
Structures in society that connect individuals to the political process, including political parties, elections, interest groups, and the media. Linkage institutions play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, political preferences, and voter engagement.
Political Parties
Organized groups that seek to gain political power by winning elections and influencing government policy. Political parties create platforms that outline their stance on various issues, and they work to mobilize voters and support candidates who align with their values.
