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15th Amendment

Definition

The 15th Amendment refers to an amendment to the United States Constitution that was ratified in 1870. It granted African American men the right to vote, stating that the right to vote cannot be denied or restricted based on race or color.

Analogy

Imagine a classroom where everyone is given a sticker to vote for their favorite ice cream flavor. The 15th Amendment is like a rule that says no one can be denied a sticker just because of their skin color.

Related terms

Voting Rights Act of 1965: This act aimed at overcoming legal barriers preventing African Americans from voting by prohibiting discriminatory practices and enforcing federal oversight.

Suffrage: Suffrage refers to the right to vote in political elections.

Civil Rights Movement: The Civil Rights Movement was a social and political movement in the United States during the mid-20th century that fought for equal rights and opportunities for African Americans.