What does the word “disenfranchised” mean? If you’re not sure, check it out in a dictionary such as https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/disenfranchised

“Disenfranchised” describes the condition of not having any of the rights or advantages associated with citizenship, particularly the ability to vote. For legal, social, or economic reasons, it may also apply to people or groups who have Benn denied the opportunity to engage in political or social activities. It basically refers to those who are excluded from decision-making processes and are not given a voice.

Who were the members of the “Disenfranchised”? What were some common factors shared by members of this group? What social class that we have studied in previous modules is Beard describing here?

The term “disenfranchised” describes people or groups who were not allowed to cast ballots or take part in full political activities. This group’s common characteristics were social class, gender, and race. This frequently included Native Americans, women, poor or landless white men who did not meet property requirements, and African Americans in particular those who were enslaved and free black in several states. The political system consistently excluded these populations.

Which social class did the “real property holders” and those in “manufacturing, shipping and personal securities” belong to? Why, what makes their class membership clear?

In early America, the “real property holders” and those engaged in “manufacturing, shipping, and personal securities” were members of the upper or aristocratic class. The fact that these people possessed substantial assets, like real estate, companies, or financial securities, which gave them riches and social standing, makes their class affiliation obvious. They were able to exert influence in both the political and social arenas thanks to their economic mights. Being able to control important business like shipping and manufacturing or hold substantial tracts of land allowed them to maintain a dominant position in society and influence public policy, setting them apart from the working or lower classes.