Final answer:
Free elections are a vital foundation of any democracy and allow citizens to choose representatives. Initially, African Americans and women were denied the right to vote but through various movements and legislation, suffrage rights have been extended to all citizens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Free elections are a provision made to ensure the democratic process in a country. In the United States, free elections allow citizens to choose representatives who will make decisions on their behalf. Initially, African Americans and women were denied the right to vote, but through the efforts of various movements and legislation such as the Civil Rights Acts and the Voting Rights Act, the right to vote has been extended to all citizens.