Rights and Liberties (15th Amendment Cases)

Question 1

United States v. Reese (1876)

Answer 1

Supreme Court decision that narrowly interpreted the 15th Amendment, stating that the right to vote was NOT protected against the actions of individuals.

Question 2

Shelby County v. Holder (2013)

Answer 2

Supreme Court decision that struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which required certain states with a history of discrimination to obtain federal approval before changing their voting laws.

Question 3

Richardson v. Ramirez (1974)

Answer 3

Supreme Court decision that upheld the constitutionality of state laws denying the right to vote for individuals convicted of felonies.

Question 4

Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections (1966)

Answer 4

Supreme Court decision that declared the imposition of a poll tax for state elections unconstitutional, ensuring the protection of the right to vote.

Question 5

South Carolina v. Katzenbach (1966)

Answer 5

Supreme Court decision upholding the constitutionality of certain provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which required federal approval for changes to voting laws in certain jurisdictions with a history of discrimination.

Question 6

Smith v. Allwright (1944)

Answer 6

Supreme Court decision that declared the “white primary” unconstitutional, striking down a discriminatory practice that excluded African Americans from participating in primary elections.

Question 7

Guinn v. United States (1915)

Answer 7

Supreme Court decision that struck down the grandfather clause as a means of disfranchisement, declaring it unconstitutional.