by Tod Olson

The right to vote wasn't just handed to Americans. They had to fight for it.

When the polls open tomorrow, every citizen over the age of 18 will be able to cast a vote. It is a right we take for granted, one that defines our nation as a democracy. But universal suffrage — letting everyone vote — did not appear overnight with the ratification of our Constitution. Two hundred years ago, you had to be white, male, and wealthy in order to vote.

Photo: Thomas Dorr

Full story: History: The Right To Vote

Discuss: Holding our Breath 

Here are my endorsements:
John Rabenold for 35th Ohio House
Paul Nenni for Ohio House
Judge Hendrickson for Court of Appeals

Butler County Ballot contains:
Presidential Candidates
Issues in Butler County

Polling places in Butler County