U.S. participation in the Vietnam War prompted widespread protests and debates about the fairness of drafting young men to fight while they could not vote. Many argued that if 18-year-olds were old enough to be conscripted into military service, they should also have the right to vote. This growing sentiment led to the passage of the 26th Amendment in 1971, which lowered the voting age from 21 to 18, ensuring that those affected by military decisions had a say in the democratic process.
The Vietnam War
the 26th amendment
October 26, 1955.
Amendment 26
Amendment 26
26 amendment
The 26th Amendment to the U.S Constitution changed the voting age from 21 to 18. This change was instituted during the Vietnam War. People found it immoral that an eighteen year old could be drafted to fight for their country, yet could not vote for who ran the country that they were fighting for.
Amendment 26
26
26 amendment
ABC Scope - 1964 Vietnam Report Bottleneck 2-26 was released on: USA: 26 February 1966
The 26th Amendment, ratified in 1971, lowered the voting age from 21 to 18, significantly impacting American society by enfranchising millions of young citizens. This change acknowledged the active role of younger individuals, especially those affected by the Vietnam War, in advocating for their rights and participation in democracy. By expanding the electorate, the amendment encouraged greater political engagement among youth, influencing subsequent elections and policy discussions. Overall, it marked a shift towards recognizing the importance of young voices in shaping the nation's future.