The Birth of the Transparent Ballot Box
In 1858, Samuel C. Jollie patented a glass ballot box to counter voter fraud, inspired by a 1856 scandal involving a false-bottom box. This innovation allowed bystanders to see ballots being cast and counted, ensuring transparency in elections.
A Revolution in Voting
By the 1860s, glass ballot boxes became election staples. Their transparency reassured voters, showing their ballots were secure. These boxes symbolized trust in the voting process, with designs like Amos Pettibone’s 1884 model becoming iconic.
Challenges and Cartoons
Political cartoons from the era highlighted issues of voter fraud and suppression while featuring glass ballot boxes as symbols of transparency. These visuals emphasized the importance of fighting corrupt practices and ensuring fair elections.
In 1858, Samuel C. Jollie patented a glass ballot box to counter voter fraud, inspired by a 1856 scandal involving a false-bottom box. This innovation allowed bystanders to see ballots being cast and counted, ensuring transparency in elections. pic.twitter.com/NezHOHpMcZ
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