Lesson 24 of 84 · The Constitution
⭐ 30 XP🏛️ Civic SquareThe 26th Amendment: Voting Age to 18
The 26th Amendment, ratified in 1971, lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 years.
🎯 Your mission
Decide what YOU would do in their shoes.
⚡ The twist
Not voting is also a vote.
Mind = Blown
🤯 In ancient Athens, 'democracy' only included about 10% of the people.
Then & Now
🏛️ Knowing this makes you a better voter when you grow up.
The 26th Amendment, ratified in 1971, lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 years. This change was largely influenced by the activism of young Americans during the Vietnam War, who argued that if they were old enough to serve in the military, they should also be allowed to vote. The ratification of the 26th Amendment reflected a growing recognition of the rights and responsibilities of younger citizens in a democratic society. This amendment has since ensured that millions of American youth can participate in the electoral process.
Key Facts
The 26th Amendment was ratified in 1971.
It lowered the voting age from 21 to 18.
It was influenced by activism during the Vietnam War.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 2What change did the 26th Amendment enact?
Why this still matters
Your school has rules. Where do they come from? Who decides them?
Stretch Challenge
Try this in real life this week.
Watch a town meeting or council clip on YouTube for 5 minutes.
For the dinner table
“What's one rule at our house you'd change if you could vote on it?”
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