The first country to allow Voting Rights for all groups of people was

The correct answer is 'New Zealand'

Key Points

• New Zealand:
  • New Zealand was the first country to grant universal suffrage, allowing all adult citizens, including women, the right to vote in parliamentary elections.
  • This historic event took place in 1893, marking a significant milestone in the global movement for voting rights and gender equality.
  • The decision was influenced by strong advocacy from women's suffrage movements, particularly the efforts of leaders like Kate Sheppard.

Additional Information

• USA:
  • The USA granted women the right to vote with the 19th Amendment in 1920, much later than New Zealand.
  • However, voting rights for all racial groups were only fully secured with the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
• Russia:
  • Women in Russia gained the right to vote in 1917 following the Russian Revolution.
  • However, the political environment did not allow for a fully democratic system where all groups could participate equally.
• India:
  • India granted universal adult suffrage with its independence in 1947, allowing all adults to vote regardless of gender, caste, or religion.
  • While progressive, this was still over 50 years after New Zealand's landmark decision.