What factors contributed historically to the expansion of suffrage in Scotland?

The expansion of suffrage in Scotland has historically been driven significantly by Reform Acts and social movements. Reform Acts, particularly those in the 19th and early 20th centuries, were pivotal in gradually extending the right to vote to broader sections of the population, moving from property-based qualifications to more universal enfranchisement. For instance, the Representation of the People Acts expanded the electorate by removing property requirements and lowering the voting age, which allowed more men and, eventually, women to vote.

Alongside legislative changes, various social movements played a crucial role in advocating for voting rights. Groups such as the suffragists and suffragettes mobilized public opinion and pressed for reforms, emphasizing the need for equal representation and participation in the democratic process. Their activism highlighted the inequalities in the voting system and galvanized support for change across different segments of society.

In contrast, while economic prosperity and increased literacy, international treaties and external pressures, and technological advancements in communication might have influenced the sociopolitical environment, they were not the primary driving forces behind the specific legal changes that expanded suffrage in Scotland. The changes were mainly a result of domestic activism and legislative reforms focused on voting rights.