Redistrict Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ณ๏ธ
redistrict
[หriหหdษชstrษชkt ]
Definition
political boundaries
To redistrict means to divide or organize an area into new electoral districts or administrative boundaries. This process often occurs after a census and is typically done to ensure that each district has roughly equal population sizes. Redistricting can significantly impact political representation and may affect election outcomes. The process can be contentious, as it often involves political maneuvering and can be seen as a way to favor one group over another.
Synonyms
reallocate, reapportion, redraw.
Examples of usage
- The state legislature decided to redistrict after the latest census.
- Activists are lobbying to prevent gerrymandering during the upcoming redistricting process.
- The city plans to redistrict to better reflect the demographic changes in the community.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Political Science
- Redistricting typically occurs every ten years after the census to reflect changes in population.
- The process can significantly impact political representation, as it can alter the voting strength of particular groups.
- Gerrymandering is a controversial form of redistricting where boundaries are manipulated to favor one political party over another.
History
- In the United States, the first significant redistricting occurred after the 1790 census, leading to the creation of congressional districts.
- The Voting Rights Act of 1965 aimed to prevent racial discrimination in redistricting, leading to more equitable representation.
Geography
- Changes in redistricting affect local geography, determining which neighborhoods belong to specific political or administrative areas.
- Redistricting can also influence resource distribution, such as public schools and emergency services, within communities.
Pop Culture
- Redistricting and gerrymandering often appear in political thrillers and dramas, serving as a backdrop for plots about justice and fairness.
- Television shows like 'The West Wing' have featured storylines revolving around the complexities and conflicts of redistricting efforts.
Origin of 'redistrict'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 're-' meaning again, and 'district,' which comes from the Latin 'districtus,' meaning to draw apart.
- 'District' itself was introduced in the English language during the 14th century, originally referring to an area marked for administration.
The term 'redistrict' is derived from the prefix 're-', meaning 'again' or 'back', and the word 'district', which comes from Middle French 'district', dating back to the late 14th century, from Latin 'districtus', which means 'pulled apart' or 'separated'. Over the years, the concept of redistricting has evolved, particularly in the United States where it became prominent after the establishment of the census in 1790. The process has played a crucial role in the electoral system, influencing political power dynamics by redefining electoral district boundaries. Notably, practices like gerrymandering have emerged as controversial tactics used during redistricting to manipulate boundaries for political advantage, leading to ongoing debates regarding fairness and representational equity in democracy.