The Origins of Election Day: Early Voting Practices and the Agrarian Influence
In the United States, Election Day, the first Tuesday in November, symbolizes American democracy. So how did this particular day become chosen, and what has it become over the centuries? Here, we look back at the history of Election Day, from its beginnings to how it evolved to meet the changing tides of culture, technology, and social policy.
America’s democratic system was still in its infancy in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Elections were not held according to a federal standard. On different days and months, the state or region is preferred. That inconsistency made for logistical problems as the country grew, with delayed results and voting irregularities routine.
Why November?
Influenced by the agrarian calendar of the time, it was no surprise to choose November as the election month. Most Americans were farmers in the 19th century. The majority of the U.S. population at the time was rural citizens, and November, after the autumn harvest, was considered the most convenient month. They were able to farm and still participate in the democratic process.
Why Tuesday? Balancing Religion, Commerce, and Agriculture
Lawmakers had to choose the exact day of the week for Election Day once November was selected. It sounds more simple than it was, each day had social and economic implications.
Sunday was a day of rest and worship in 19th-century America. It was therefore thought inappropriate for civic uses. Further, many Americans were far from polling places and would have to travel long distances to vote. Many also were out of luck on Monday, because traveling on Sunday was considered inappropriate in many Christian communities.
Tuesday was the best option, as Monday and Wednesday were unavailable, and Monday was market day (in many rural areas). This arrangement met the various social needs of the time and enabled Americans to continue to fulfill their religious and economic routines while participating in democracy. That was also a significant decision — to avoid the first of November. Congress set Election Day as the Tuesday after the first Monday so it would never fall on November 1st, All Saints’ Day, a major religious holiday for some denominations.
The Standardization of Election Day: The Act of 1845 and Its Impacts
Congress finally made the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November the Election Day for presidential elections, by law, on January 23, 1845. This decision standardized and streamlined the electoral process across the nation, setting a unified timeline for all states.
This was important because it cut down on the time between state elections, making it less likely that election tampering or influence by states that had voted earlier would occur. It also gave the growing nation a sense of unity by offering citizens a chance at a shared democratic event on the same day.
Expanding the Right to Vote: Key Amendments and Social Movements
The 15th Amendment and Voting Rights for Black Men (1870)
Not everyone had the right to vote on Election Day. At this point, white men had the right to vote, but many Black Americans, Native Americans, and other minorities were not. The first major step in expanding voting rights came with the 15th Amendment which barred voting restrictions based on race, ratified in 1870.
Yet, despite this legal protection, Black men continued to be denied the ability to vote through systemic barriers such as poll taxes, literacy tests, and violence at polling stations. These obstacles would be substantially reduced only with nearly a century of civil rights activism and legislation.
The 19th Amendment and Women’s Suffrage (1920)
The fight for women’s right to vote culminated in 1920 with the passage of the 19th Amendment, which expanded voting rights to women. This landmark achievement made Election Day a truly national occasion, with all adult citizens, regardless of gender, able to participate.
This shift not only reshaped American democracy but also transformed Election Day itself. With women casting ballots, Election Day became an even more significant event, representing inclusivity and broader representation in government.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965
The Voting Rights Act (VRA) was passed in 1965, banning racial discrimination in voting. This legislation was essential to tearing down Jim Crow laws that had robbed Black voters of their democracy in the South. In addition, the VRA banned discriminatory practices, such as literacy tests and poll taxes, and dramatically increased voter participation.
These amendments and acts led to Election Day becoming an event more fully in accord with the principles of democracy and equality through which a more representative cross-section of American society could vote.
Election Day in Modern Times: Early Voting, Mail-In Ballots, and National Debate
The Introduction of Early Voting and Absentee Ballots
In the last few decades, early voting and mail-in ballots have exploded in the United States. Much of this has been driven by efforts to make it easier for citizens who might struggle on Election Day, due to work commitments, long commutes, or health issues, to vote.
State early voting laws vary, but generally, citizens can vote early days or even weeks before Election Day. The trend was accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic when many states temporarily expanded early voting and mail-in options to minimize in-person gatherings.
National Discussion on Making Election Day a Federal Holiday
The fact that voter turnout continues to be a problem is why a growing movement supports making Election Day a federal holiday. The holiday would let more Americans vote without the work or school constraints, advocates say and should boost turnout.
But opponents say a federal holiday would not benefit all citizens equally. For example, those in low-wage or hourly jobs may still have difficulties obtaining time off to vote, which demonstrates just how challenging it is to develop equitable voting solutions.
The Debate Over Digital Voting
With the speed of technology progressing, we’ve also been debating whether digital voting should be considered part of Election Day. Digital options, proponents say, could further expand accessibility, especially for those living in remote areas or outside of the country. However, critics say cybersecurity and the possibility of digital interference are of concern before widespread adoption, and that robust safeguards would be required.
The Future of Election Day: A Tradition in Transition
Election Day is changing in response to technological and social change. The 'first Tuesday after the first Monday' formula that has long defined the Fourth of July may be reconsidered as the country gets more diverse and work schedules shift to accommodate modern Americans.
This day is as dynamic as American democracy itself, with talk of digital voting, expanded early voting, and even making Election Day a federal holiday. Despite its many transformations, the spirit of Election Day remains steadfast: It’s a day to celebrate the collective voice of the American people and our ongoing journey toward a more inclusive democracy.
Conclusion
The history of Election Day in the United States is a story of adaptation and expansion, reflecting the nation’s evolving values and priorities. From its agrarian origins to today’s complex discussions about accessibility and security, Election Day has been shaped by the unique needs and ideals of each era.
As we look toward the future, Election Day remains a powerful reminder of the democratic principles that bind the country together. Whether cast on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November or through an early ballot, each vote contributes to a legacy of shared governance and national unity. The history of Election Day reflects not only America’s past but also its commitment to a democratic future that strives to represent all its citizens.
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