What is suffrage?

Suffrage refers specifically to the right to vote in political elections. It encompasses the ability of citizens to participate in the democratic process by selecting their representatives and influencing government policies. Historically, the expansion of suffrage has been a significant aspect of civil rights movements, where various groups have fought for their right to vote, highlighting its importance in achieving equality and representation in governance.

The other options pertain to different rights that are crucial to a democratic society, but they do not define suffrage. The right to bear arms deals with firearm ownership, free speech pertains to the expression of opinions and ideas without censorship, and the right to a fair trial ensures legal processes are just and equitable. Each of these rights plays a vital role in a functioning democracy, yet suffrage is exclusively tied to the electoral process and civic engagement through voting.