Literacy Tests And Poll Taxes Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Literacy Tests And Poll Taxes?

Literacy tests and poll taxes were two of the most insidious methods used to disenfranchise African Americans before the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Both were unconstitutional and aimed at blocking black citizens from exercising their right to vote in elections. These practices have a long history in America, dating back to Reconstruction-era efforts by southern states to prevent freed slaves from participating in government.Literacy tests required potential voters to answer questions about American history, politics, or other topics related to voting eligibility. The questions were often so difficult that even well-educated African Americans would struggle with them. Poll taxes levied a tax on individuals who wanted to register or cast a ballot in an election; many poor African Americans could not afford the tax and thus were denied their right to vote. Although these methods have been outlawed for decades, they still have an impact today when it comes down to voter access for minorities and low-income people – particularly since there are very few rules preventing states from making it more difficult for certain groups of people (such as felons) from voting today. In addition, some states have implemented strict voter identification laws that can create obstacles for those without easy access to proper documentation such as driver’s licenses or passports – which again disproportionately affects minorities and low-income people who may not be able to afford or obtain such documents easily. In sum, literacy tests and poll taxes are just two examples of how state governments can deny citizens the right to vote based on race or economic status – something that is still very much an issue today despite being made illegal years ago. In order for our democracy truly thrive we must ensure that everyone has equal access at the polls no matter what their background is.