Civics 101
Why is the voting age 18?
Sep 3, 2024
Jennifer Frost, an author specializing in youth voting rights, shares her insights on the significant shift in America's voting age from 21 to 18. She explores the rapid ratification of the 26th Amendment amidst a backdrop of historical activism, including the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement. Frost discusses key advocates and the legislative battles won by young activists. The conversation also dives into the complexities surrounding state and federal voting standards, highlighting the ongoing importance of youth participation in democracy.
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Quick takeaways
- The successful push to lower the voting age to 18 was significantly driven by youth activism during the Vietnam War and civil rights movements.
- The 26th Amendment's rapid ratification reflects both the urgency of the legislative response to social change and the strength of grassroots advocacy.
Deep dives
The Age of Majority and Voting Rights
The age of majority in the United States, generally recognized as 18, serves as a benchmark for various rights and responsibilities, particularly the right to vote. Historically, the voting age was determined by individual states, leading to a patchwork of regulations; however, this began to shift in the 20th century. Initially, the age of majority was set at 21, reflecting historical norms that dated back to colonial times. The conversation around changing the voting age gained momentum with the argument that if young people were old enough to fight in wars, they should also have the right to vote.
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