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History

Gerrymandering Techniques and Their Democratic Legitimacy

Quick fact

The term 'gerrymander' was coined in 1812 after Massachusetts Governor Elbridge Gerry signed a redistricting plan that created a district shaped like a salamander—hence 'gerrymander.'

Why this is interesting

Drawing lines on a map might seem boring, but in the United States, some districts look like dragons, salamanders, and even earmuffs. Could these shapes actually decide who wins an election before a single vote is cast?