Question

In 1800, most citizens worked as farmers and lived far from their polling place. Since people often traveled at least a day to vote, lawmakers needed to allow a two-day window for election day. Weekends were impractical since most people spent Sunday in church and Wednesday was market day for farmers. Where were the polling places probably located?

1) Polling places were probably near the market to which the farmers traveled.
2) Polling places were probably far from the market to which the farmers traveled.
3) Polling places were probably near the churches that most people attend.
4) Polling places were probably far from the church that most people attend.

Answer 1

Polling places in 1800 were likely close to the market areas where farmers traveled, as it was convenient and aligned with their schedules.

Step-by-step explanation:

In 1800, with most citizens working as farmers and living far from their polling place, it was necessary to provide a two-day window for election day to accommodate the lengthy travel times required for voters to reach the voting location. Given that Sundays were reserved for church and Wednesdays were market days, it is logical to conclude that polling places were likely to be located in areas that were convenient for the farmers to access during these times. Considering these factors, 1) Polling places were probably near the market to which the farmers traveled, since it would allow for a more efficient use of their time.