Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
poll-tax
Noun
ˈpɒl ˌtæks
Definition
A poll tax is a fixed tax or fee that individuals must pay in order to be eligible to vote.
Examples
- The state implemented a poll tax that disproportionately affected low-income voters.
- Many activists fought against the poll tax, arguing that it was a form of voter suppression.
Meaning
This term refers to a system where individuals, often during elections, are required to pay a specific amount of money before they can cast their vote, which historically has been used to disenfranchise poorer citizens.
Synonyms
- Head tax
- Capitation tax
