Why was the voting rights act of 1965 necessary Selleck the two correct answers

Answer 1

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was necessary for several key reasons:

1. Disenfranchisement of African American Voters: Many African Americans, particularly in the Southern states, faced systemic barriers that prevented them from exercising their right to vote. These included literacy tests, poll taxes, and other discriminatory practices. The Act aimed to eliminate these obstacles and ensure that all citizens could participate in the electoral process.

2. Federal Enforcement of Voting Rights: Prior to the act, the federal government had limited power to enforce voting rights, which allowed state and local governments to implement discriminatory practices. The Act authorized federal oversight and enforcement of voter registration and election processes in areas with a history of discrimination, thereby safeguarding the voting rights of minority populations.

These two aspects were crucial in addressing the inequities that existed in the electoral system, making the Voting Rights Act essential for advancing civil rights and ensuring fair access to voting.