Enfranchise Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ณ๏ธ
enfranchise
[ษชnหfrรฆnหสงaษชz ]
Definition
grant rights
To enfranchise someone means to grant them the rights of citizenship, especially the right to vote. This term has historical significance, particularly in the context of social and political reform movements aiming to expand voting rights. Enfranchisement often refers to removing barriers that prevent certain groups from participating in the electoral process. The term is widely used when discussing civil rights and suffrage movements, highlighting the progress toward equality in democratic societies.
Synonyms
allow, empower, enable, liberate.
Examples of usage
- The new law was designed to enfranchise previously marginalized communities.
- Activists worked tirelessly to enfranchise women and minorities.
- Many states have taken steps to enfranchise ex-convicts to allow them to vote again.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- In the United States, the 15th Amendment, ratified in 1870, aimed to enfranchise African American males after the Civil War.
- Women weren't universally enfranchised in the U.S. until the 19th Amendment was passed in 1920, securing their right to vote.
- Various movements like the Suffragists and Civil Rights activists have been pivotal in the struggle to enfranchise marginalized groups.
Pop Culture
- The fight for enfranchisement for women and minorities has been portrayed in many films, highlighting societal struggles.
- Songs and literature often address themes of empowerment and voting rights, depicting the personal stories behind the need for enfranchisement.
- Numerous famous speeches, such as Martin Luther King Jr.โs 'I Have a Dream', emphasize the importance of voting rights in achieving equality.
Political Science
- Enfranchisement is a key aspect of democracy, as it ensures that various voices contribute to governance.
- Countries often debate the age and qualifications needed for enfranchisement, reflecting different attitudes towards youth participation.
- Political parties may engage in efforts to increase enfranchisement, viewing it as a way to expand their electoral base.
Global Perspectives
- The concept of enfranchisement varies globally, with some countries offering more inclusive voting systems than others.
- In some regions, enfranchisement has sparked civil unrest, as disenfranchised groups demand their rights and representation.
- International laws, including treaties, often advocate for the enfranchisement of all citizens as a fundamental human right.
Origin of 'enfranchise'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French 'enfranchir', where 'en-' means 'to make' and 'franchir' means 'to free'.
- It originally referred to the freeing of serfs in medieval France, granting them rights and privileges.
- The concept evolved in the 17th century to include voting rights, particularly in relation to political participation.
The term 'enfranchise' comes from the Old French term 'franchir', which means 'to free'. The prefix 'en-' denotes the action of making or causing, thus together it conveys the idea of 'to free' someone from restrictions. The word evolved in usage during the 15th century as societies began to discuss and advocate for civil liberties and voting rights. In a historical context, enfranchisement has often been tied to various movements, such as the suffragette movement in the early 20th century, which fought vigorously for women's right to vote. As countries modernized, enfranchisement became a central theme in democracies as laws began to adapt to reflect a more equitable society, emphasizing the necessity of including diverse populations in the political process.