PO 106: Introduction to American Government
Voting in the United States Paper Assignment
Silent Sentinels—Women protestors from
January 10, 1917 – June 4, 1919 when the 19th Amendment was passed by Congress
This paper is a research/reflection essay. It should be 5-6 pages in length, 12pt font, with normal margins. For this paper you will need a title page (this does not count as a written page) and to use proper citations for your research. It should address all the questions posed below. Additionally, if you are a citizen of the United States, you will be required to register to vote for this assignment (show documentation that you registered) and reflect upon your experience. At least five sources must be used in this paper assignment.
Why is voting important? What groups of people in the United States are more or less likely to vote, explain why? What are the consequences of democracy because certain groups do not vote, please give examples? What are the voter registration laws in Kansas? Why are the laws in Kansas this way? Do you believe they help or hinder democracy in Kansas? You need to register to vote. Explain your own process, was it difficult? If so why, if not why? Many states have made efforts to make voting easier for their citizens. What have some states done? Do you think Kansas should reform their voting laws, why or why not? Some democracies require their citizens to vote. Which countries require compulsory (aka mandatory) voting? What are some of the positives and negatives associated with compulsory voting system? The government requires all sorts of things from their citizens, for example: vaccinations, schooling, taxes, and wearing of seatbelts…to name a few. Do you think the United States should require its citizens to vote, why or why not?
March 30, 1965 Selma, Alabama, Bloody Sunday
March to Montgomery to register to vote