A common misconception but that isn't how all states were. New England states not only went beyond the all freemen living in the jurisdiction, but those freemen included blacks. A nasty little rumour ad it that Connecticut allowed women to vote for a few years under the Articles. Historical basis was the enlightened electorate, educated and with roots in their districts.
But keep reaching for reasons to justify abrogation of civic duty.
The Founding Fathers knew that a democracy could survive only if the citizens exercised their franchise responsibly, knowledgeably, and faithfully.
We aren't compelled to vote by some nutcase murderous dictator. And refusing to vote does send a message to the parties, one that they can read quite well even if FR's Bushbot contingent can't figure it out
No, we are not compelled to vote. Civic responsibility should be enough of a motivation.
Not voting doesn't send any kind of powerful message to the parties.
The message not voting sends is that most voters don't give a s**t no matter what the politicians do.
So the parties and politicians focus more and more on the minority groups and special interest groups that do vote. The parties feel that a focus on presenting views, educating about the important issues facing the nation is a waste. Why care about those who don't care enough to vote? Instead, focus on the few that do vote - buy their votes, pander, and don't don't worry about the good of the nation or what the majority might think.
Because the majority of voters don't bother.
Whether it's because of apathy or a selfish 'message', the republic is failing because of the horrendous lack of responsibility and duty in the electorate.