FREE Women's Rights and the Early American Republic Essay (original) (raw)
Democracy has its foundations built on the minds of its subjects. Therefore it has one fatal flaw that also gives it the power to be successful: Its decisions are made by the populace. Thus Democracy has weaknesses in enabling the reforms for emancipation and women's rights. However the strengths Democracy provides were illuminated, through the surge of female evangelists, the increase of amendments granting Women and African-American rights, and the growth of the majority's power.
Democracy inhibited reforms because the white male majority was afraid of change. With amendments requiring a 2/3 majority followed by a 3/4 ratification process, amending the Constitution proved difficult for reformers looking to further the cause of women and blacks. White males were the only viable people who could vote on these changes and many of their principles were deeply ingrained by years of prejudice and racism. Changing the minds of these legislators was one of the most pressing challenges of early American reforms hindering the democratic process and preventing women and blacks from earning equality for many years. Also, the white male majority in the Supreme Court prevented any jurisdictional precedence's to defend equality. Observed in the Dred Scott case, the white Supreme Court justices prevented any furthering in allowing blacks freedom. .
The majority rule however was a double edged sword. Women's rights and African-American rights tended to go together, so, when blacks became eligible to vote they helped fight for women's equality. Because both parties realized that if one had the support of the other it would be more likely for them to win their equality. This evolution of majorities' powers gave rise to public protest, and other large demonstrations of public opinion. This attribute is one of the cornerstones of American democracy and policy.
One of the most beneficial aspects of democracy for the reformation of American prejudice was the 1st Amendment.
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