The Twenty-Fourth Amendment: Ending Poll Taxes in Voting

The 24th Amendment, ratified on January 23, 1964, was crucial in the civil rights movement as it abolished poll taxes, which had been used to disenfranchise poor citizens, especially African Americans. Poll taxes, introduced post-Civil War, were a financial barrier to voting, circumventing the 15th Amendment that granted African American men voting rights. In 1962, the House approved an amendment to end this discrimination. Despite resistance from some states, the amendment was ratified in 1964, with South Dakota being the decisive 38th state. The video reviews these events and poses questions for further reflection.

What was the primary impact of the 24th Amendment on voting rights?

• It introduced voter ID requirements.

• It allowed women to vote.

• It banned poll taxes.

• It lowered the voting age to 18.

Why were poll taxes implemented in the southern states after the Civil War?

• To increase state revenue.

• To encourage voter turnout.

• To bypass the 15th Amendment.

• To support educational funding.

Which of the following states still had poll taxes in 1962?

• California

• New York

• Virginia

• Florida

In what year did South Dakota become the 38th state to ratify the 24th Amendment?

• 1960

• 1964

• 1962

• 1966

What is a potential topic for reflection regarding representation in Congress?

• The role of the Senate

• The representation of Washington, DC

• The number of Supreme Court justices

• The process of presidential elections