What does the term 'suffrage' refer to?

The term 'suffrage' specifically refers to the right to vote in political elections. It encompasses the legal rights and entitlements of individuals to cast a ballot and participate in the democratic process. The historical context of suffrage highlights its evolution, particularly the struggles for various groups to secure this vital right, such as women and marginalized communities in different societies. Understanding suffrage is essential in studying democracy, as it directly relates to how representation and participation in governance are structured within a political system. The other options pertain to different aspects of political engagement or governance but do not define suffrage.