Historical Events tagged with "voting"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Rhodesians Vote Against Union with South Africa

October 27th, 1922 102 years ago

A referendum held in Rhodesia resulted in a decisive vote against the proposed annexation to the South African Union. The public sentiment was clearly illustrated, with a significant majority rejecting the idea of joining South Africa after a vigorous campaign sparked interest across the region. The referendum reflected the political landscape of the time, demonstrating Rhodesians' desire to maintain their autonomy amidst the changing dynamics of colonial governance. The results not only captured the public's opinion but also raised questions about the future governance of Rhodesia.

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Politics & Government

Supreme Court Upholds Women's Voting Rights

February 27th, 1922 103 years ago

In the case of Leser v. Garnett, the Supreme Court faced a challenge to the Nineteenth Amendment, which guaranteed women the right to vote. The Court's ruling confirmed the validity of the amendment, affirming the legality of women's suffrage in the United States. The case emerged from a dispute regarding the voting rights of women in Maryland, where opponents questioned the amendment's constitutionality. The ruling emphasized the importance of women's participation in the democratic process.

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Politics & Government

Upper Silesia Plebiscite Held to Set Borders

March 20th, 1921 103 years ago

A plebiscite was conducted in Upper Silesia to determine its national allegiance following World War I. Voters were asked whether they wanted to join Weimar Germany or newly independent Poland. The region was vital due to its industrial resources and strategic location. The vote manifested not only a quest for self-determination but also reflected tensions fueled by nationalist sentiments on both sides. Both nations campaigned vigorously to sway the outcome.

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Politics & Government

Woodrow Wilson Wins Re-election as President

November 7th, 1916 108 years ago

Woodrow Wilson was re-elected as President of the United States in a closely contested election against Republican challenger Charles Evans Hughes. The election took place on November 7, 1916, amid tensions surrounding World War I. Wilson's campaign focused on his policy of neutrality and keeping the U.S. out of the conflict. He garnered significant support from various voter demographics, claiming victory with a narrow margin in both popular and electoral votes. His re-election came as a surprise to many political observers who anticipated a Hughes victory.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Manitoba Grants Women Voting Rights

January 28th, 1916 109 years ago

In Manitoba, women gained the right to vote and run for office in provincial elections, representing a significant advancement in women's rights in Canada. This landmark decision allowed women to influence political landscapes actively, although it still excluded women of Indigenous and Asian heritage, highlighting ongoing inequalities. The move indicated a shift toward greater gender equality in the political realm.

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Politics & Government

Approval of Voting Machines by Congress

February 14th, 1899 126 years ago

Voting machines were officially approved for use in federal elections. The Congress took this significant step on February 14, 1899, aiming to improve the electoral process by minimizing human error and enhancing voter privacy. The use of these machines marked a shift towards modernization in voting practices in the United States.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

New Zealand Women Win Voting Rights

November 28th, 1893 131 years ago

In 1893, New Zealand became the first self-governing country to grant women the right to vote in parliamentary elections. This monumental achievement followed decades of advocacy and activism led by women such as Kate Sheppard, who organized campaigns and petitions. The successful passage of the legislation was a breakthrough in the suffrage movement, enabling women to participate fully in the political process for the first time, thereby paving the way for future rights advancements across the globe.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Colorado Grants Women the Right to Vote

November 7th, 1893 131 years ago

In 1893, Colorado became the second U.S. state to grant women the right to vote. The referendum, driven by persistent advocacy from suffragists including local leaders and activists, aimed to expand democratic participation. Coloradans voted in favor of the suffrage measure, signifying a shift in societal norms and increasing support for women's rights. The successful vote represented a pivotal moment in the women's suffrage movement, showcasing the state’s progressive stance and setting a precedent for future suffrage battles across the nation.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Women's Voting Rights Protest Leads to Arrests

November 18th, 1872 152 years ago

Susan B. Anthony and 14 other women were arrested for voting illegally in the United States presidential election. They cast their votes in Rochester, New York, as a deliberate protest against the exclusion of women from the electoral process. Their actions were an important step in the women’s suffrage movement, advocating for women's rights to participate fully in democracy. The arrests garnered national attention and highlighted the ongoing struggle for female enfranchisement.

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