Ever wonder why Americans vote on Tuesdays when the majority of the world votes on Sundays (which, to be honest, makes much more sense)?
The answer dates back to the 19th century. You see, during those times, most people worked as farmers and lived pretty far from their closest polling station. Since they needed at least a day of travelling to vote, lawmakers allowed a two-day window for the Election Day. Weekends were impractical, because most people spent Sundays in church. Since Wednesday was a market day for the farmers, Tuesday was selected as the most convenient day of the week to hold elections – by leaving their houses on Monday morning, farmers had enough time to vote on Tuesdays and get back to the market on Wednesdays.
Farming also explains why elections are held in November. Summer and Spring were not a choice because they were planting seasons. Neither did winter because it would have make travelling quite a challenge. Hence, November was chosen since it’s the month between the harvest and the harsh winter time.
If you like what you read, then you will definitely love this one: From George Washington To Donald Trump, All US Presidents Have This In Common
Main Article Photo: Ben Schumin / Creative Commons
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