the.com/vote
a folded slip of paper that overrules armies, kings, and your loudest uncle.
originFrom Latin votum, meaning a vow or solemn promise.
secret ballotAustralia pioneered it; once called the Australian ballot.
marginUS ties get settled by literal coin flip or drawn lots.
womenNew Zealand let women vote first, in 1893.
compulsoryAustralia fines you for not showing up to vote.