Introduction
In 1788, the U.S. Constitution was less democratic in several areas besides slavery. First of all, it only gave the right to vote to white males, excluding women and blacks. This meant that a lot of citizens were denied the opportunity to participate in the political life of the country and influence their future. In addition, the Constitution gave more power to the federal government, limiting the rights of the states and their citizens.
The Evolution of the U.S. Constitution Toward Greater Democracy
The 15th and 19th Amendments
However, the Constitution gradually becomes more democratic. The ratification of amendments, particularly the 15th Amendment in 1870, which granted blacks the right to vote (National Archives), was a watershed moment. This was a significant step toward broadening voting rights and establishing legal equality. Another significant amendment was the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in 1920 (National Archives). This was an important step forward for gender equality and women’s political engagement.
The 13th and 14th Amendments
Other amendments were also approved over time that increased civil freedoms and protected minority rights. The 13th Amendment, for example, ended slavery, the 14th Amendment enhanced civil rights and duties and ensured equality before the law, and the 26th Amendment decreased the voting age to 18 (“Exhibitions – Library of Congress”). Court rulings, in addition to modifications, played a vital role in developing democracy. For example, in 1954, the Supreme Court ruled in Brown v. Board of Education that racial segregation in schools was a violation of equality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although the American Constitution was initially less democratic due to restrictions on voting rights and the power of the federal government, it has become more democratic over time through amendments and court decisions. These changes have allowed different groups of citizens to participate in the political life of the country actively and influence their future, as evidenced by examples of essential amendments such as the 15th and 19th Amendments, as well as the Supreme Court’s decision in the Brown case (National Archives).
Works Cited
National Archives. “15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: Voting Rights (1870).” National Archives. 2021. Web.
National Archives. “19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: Women’s Right to Vote (1920).” National Archives. 2021. Web.
National Archives. “Brown v. Board of Education (1954).” National Archives. 2021. Web.
“Prologue – the Civil Rights Act of 1964: A Long Struggle for Freedom | Exhibitions – Library of Congress.” Loc. 2019. Web.