Questions and Answers
What was the 26th Amendment?
The 26th Amendment lowered the voting age from 21 to 18.
What factors led to the proposal to lower the voting age?
During the Vietnam War, many young people could fight but couldn't vote, leading to the perception of unfairness.
What are the dates of the 26th Amendment's adoption and ratification?
The amendment was adopted on March 10, 1971, and ratified on July 1, 1971.
What was the impact of the 26th Amendment?
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How many voting amendments are part of the United States Constitution?
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How long did it take for three-fourths of the states to ratify the 26th Amendment?
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What is the name of the Supreme Court case that dealt with the regulation of state elections?
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What year was the 26th Amendment passed?
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What election had the second highest voter turnout?
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Study Notes
Overview of the 26th Amendment
- Proposed by West Virginia congressman Jennings Randolph, reflecting the slogan "Old enough to Fight, Old enough to Vote."
- Lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 years.
- Officially became law in 1971 after many years of advocacy.
Factors Leading to Proposal
- Vietnam War context: young men could be drafted but lacked voting rights.
- Perceived injustice for those who could fight but not vote.
- Activism by students played a crucial role in advocating for the change.
Adoption and Ratification
- March 10, 1971: Senate unanimously approved the amendment.
- Richard Nixon signed an extension of the Voting Rights Act to facilitate the change.
- July 1, 1971: Amendment ratified by 38 states within three months, integrating it into the Constitution.
Impact of the Amendment
- Significant increase in young voter turnout post-ratification.
- Record high turnout for young voters immediately after passing.
- Notable resurgence in youth voting during the 2008 presidential election with Barack Obama.
Additional Facts
- Three voting-related amendments exist in the U.S. Constitution.
- Oregon v. Mitchell Supreme Court case addressed the federal government's authority over state elections.
- The 1972 election set a record for voter turnout until surpassed in 2008.
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Description
This quiz explores the 26th Amendment, which lowered the voting age from 21 to 18. It details the historical context, factors leading to its proposal, and the impact of this significant change in the U.S. voting rights landscape. Engage with key events and the amendment's lasting effects on youth participation in elections.
