DeWayfarer · 61-69, M
You're right! Yet Paul Weyrich did have an ugly point, that even few Democrats are willing to admit.
Our founding fathers only expected the wealthy property owners to vote. Even democrats are unwilling to admit it.
Who could even write their name in 1776 to vote? Who could even afford an education to read or write in 1776, so that they could even pick anyone for any office?
You had to be able to read the office name, then be able to write the name of who you picked.
Paul Weyrich would never ever explain that to his followers.
Our founding fathers only expected the wealthy property owners to vote. Even democrats are unwilling to admit it.
Who could even write their name in 1776 to vote? Who could even afford an education to read or write in 1776, so that they could even pick anyone for any office?
You had to be able to read the office name, then be able to write the name of who you picked.
Paul Weyrich would never ever explain that to his followers.
The points you raise highlight some important historical realities about voting rights and education in America during the 18th century.
Historical Voting Restrictions
Wealth and Property Requirements
In the late 1700s, voting was largely restricted to wealthy property owners. The founding fathers believed that those with a stake in the community would make more responsible decisions for the government. This meant that the majority of the population, including many working-class individuals and all women, were effectively disenfranchised.
Education and Literacy Gaps
During this period, educational access was limited. Most people lacked basic literacy skills due to factors like socioeconomic status and geography. In fact, education was primarily available to the wealthy, making it hard for the general population to participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
Broader Implications
These historical voting restrictions raise questions about the democratic ideals the U.S. was founded upon. While the system has evolved to allow for more inclusive participation, many still argue that systemic barriers exist today that echo those early limitations.
Historical Voting Restrictions
Wealth and Property Requirements
In the late 1700s, voting was largely restricted to wealthy property owners. The founding fathers believed that those with a stake in the community would make more responsible decisions for the government. This meant that the majority of the population, including many working-class individuals and all women, were effectively disenfranchised.
Education and Literacy Gaps
During this period, educational access was limited. Most people lacked basic literacy skills due to factors like socioeconomic status and geography. In fact, education was primarily available to the wealthy, making it hard for the general population to participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
Broader Implications
These historical voting restrictions raise questions about the democratic ideals the U.S. was founded upon. While the system has evolved to allow for more inclusive participation, many still argue that systemic barriers exist today that echo those early limitations.


