Essay: Why my vote matters (USA)

The United States of America is the oldest existing nation with a constitutional government where the people elect their own representatives. A feat even our own founding fathers once considered impossible. They feared democracy would, with time, corrupt the nation. However, democracy prevails. For over two centuries, American citizens have used their voices to direct our country into greatness. America, in turn, transformed into a nation where our citizens are free from tyranny and we recognize our government is of the people, by the people, and for the people. Our democracy has been so successful because of the eager participation by our forefathers, and if I do not vote, I’m degrading everything they’ve ever worked for. As history has shown, a democracy may only work with the cooperation and eagerness of the nation. My vote matters because I am the newest among generations of voters, and it is now not only mine, but all our responsibilities to continue the democracy of the United States of America.
When this country declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776, the new American citizens had no idea America’s global uprising lingered below the horizon. In the years to come, America’s democracy sprouted a new beginning from the ashes of England’s overbearing monarchy. The new citizens, for the first time in American history, voted. The people voted George Washington as the first president of the United States. Although Americans had newfound freedom, the following years were never free from conflict. Wars threatened the safety and security of American citizens, and the people needed to fulfill their civic duties in order to ensure America’s future. Everybody in the country had a job to do — protect American freedom. Men and women joined the army despite the constant threat to their lives. Those who couldn’t fight defended America from home; they grew gardens, bought bonds, saved scraps, and most importantly, voted. The American citizens recognized that in times of tribulation, their votes mattered more than ever. Our presidents keep this country together, organized, and balanced. In 1865 President Lincoln preserved the union through his strong leadership, securing a victory for the north that led to freedom and more rights for all Americans. When Truman became president in 1945, he proceeded to end World War II by dropping atomic bombs on Japan. Forty-four years later, the Berlin Wall fell after President Reagan’s pleading request, allowing the Cold War to end. Not only do these presidents reward the voters by winning wars, but they keep the nation progressing towards continual advancement. Abe Lincoln freed the slaves by the Emancipation Proclamation, Woodrow Wilson drafted what is now the United Nations, and George W. Bush united a torn country after the September 11 attacks, vowing revenge on al-Qaeda under Operation Enduring Freedom. These accomplishments were not just successful for the presidents, they were accomplishments for the voters as well. America became a global superpower under the watchful eye of the American people, thanks to every American voter from the past two centuries.
The triumphs of this great country would not be possible without the influence of the voters. As a result, America remains free and strong to this day, proving our democracy a success… so far. When used correctly with intelligence and dedication, democracy is effective and keeps our nation and leaders honest. Our votes don’t just matter, they are crucial because the voters of today have a reputation and tradition to empower the country. That, paired with patriotism, cultivates the perfect balance to sustain the past and advance our future. While I know it’s all of our responsibility, I know that my vote matters because this old American privilege is one not to be taken for granted. Thank you and God bless America.