Elections are more than just a way to choose leaders—they’re key moments in history that reflect the values and struggles of different times. This booklist goes beyond explaining how elections work and dives into the history of key elections and the major changes that shaped voting rights over time. From the fight for women’s suffrage to landmark elections, these books will give young readers a deeper understanding of how voting has evolved and why it matters.
Eyewitness: Vote
Elections and voting through history
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How Women Won the Vote
Engaging story of suffragettes and their fight for voting rights
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Running for President: The Candidates and Their Images
Entertaining overview of historical presidential candidates and their campaigns
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Lillian’s Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965
Powerful story of a woman finally getting the right to vote
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The Election of 1860: A Nation Divides on the Eve of War
Compelling story of a fraught election year
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Equality’s Call: The Story of Voting Rights in America
Inspiring history of voting rights movements in American history
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The Next President: The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten Future of America’s Presidents
Inventive overview of American presidents at young ages
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A Vote for Susanna: The First Woman Mayor
True story of America’s first female mayor
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What’s the Big Deal About Elections
Entertaining overview that includes facts about historical elections
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Give Us the Vote!: Over Two Hundred Years of Fighting for the Ballot
Thorough overview of the history of voting rights in the US
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