"Let Us Vote!": Youth Voting Rights and the 26th Amendment

The 26th Amendment to the US Constitution, which lowered the voting age from twenty-one to eighteen in 1971, was the result of a thirty-year effort by a bipartisan coalition. "Let Us Vote!" by Jennifer Frost demonstrates how this movement brought together groups from both political parties to achieve political change through coalition-building, strategic flexibility, and mobilization. The amendment was deeply indebted to the fight for African American civil and voting rights and built upon the social justice initiatives of the decade. 2021 marks the fiftieth anniversary of the amendment, and the book provides an essential investigation of how this massive political change occurred and how it could be brought about again.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 12 December 2023
Publisher: New York University Press

"Let Us Vote!" is a captivating tale that delves into the intricate efforts to secure youth voting rights in the United States. Spanning a thirty-year period, beginning during World War II, this movement brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, including both young and old, Democrats and Republicans, in politics and culture. Their united goal was to advocate for the 26th Amendment to the US Constitution, which ultimately reduced the voting age from twenty-one to eighteen in 1971. This amendment marked a significant expansion of voting rights in the United States, as it was the last time such a change was made.

In her book, Jennifer Frost skillfully showcases how the political and social movements of the time converged to propel the pursuit of a lower voting age. She illuminates the intricate process of achieving political change, encompassing initiatives from the top down and mobilization from the bottom up, coalition-building, and strategic flexibility. Frost meticulously traces the progress toward youth suffrage throughout the 1960s, highlighting how this movement built upon the social justice initiatives of the decade and drew significant inspiration from the fight for African American civil and voting rights.

As we approach the fiftieth anniversary of this pivotal constitutional amendment in 2021, the relevance of "Let Us Vote!" becomes increasingly apparent. In a time when scrutiny of both voting age and voting rights is being renewed, this book provides an essential investigation into how this significant political change came about and offers valuable insights into how it could be replicated in the future. The national conversation surrounding climate crisis, gun violence, and police brutality has sparked a renewed demand for a lower voting age, underscoring the importance of understanding the historical context and factors that contributed to this monumental shift.

"Let Us Vote!" serves as a powerful tool for educators, activists, and policymakers alike. It offers a comprehensive account of the historical background, political strategies, and social movements that shaped the pursuit of youth voting rights. By examining the successes and challenges faced by the advocates of the 26th Amendment, the book provides valuable lessons and strategies that can be applied to contemporary efforts to promote civic engagement and empower young people.

In conclusion, "Let Us Vote!" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the history and significance of youth voting rights in the United States. Through its compelling narrative and insightful analysis, the book offers valuable insights into the power of bipartisan collaboration, social mobilization, and political change. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of our contemporary society, this book serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity, democracy, and the voices of young people in shaping our collective future.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781479827244