Glossary
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Petition
A formal written request.
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Philanthropist
a person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.
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Pink collar jobs
jobs that were predominantly held by women, especially in service (example: secretary, typist) and care-taking (example: nurse, teacher)
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Plaintiff
a person who brings a suit to court.
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Polio
an illness caused by a virus that mainly affects nerves in the spinal cord or brain stem.
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Poll taxes
a payment required to vote, commonly used by Southern states to keep Black citizens from voting.
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Populism
A political approach that seeks to appeal to ordinary people who feel ignored by “elite” groups.
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Pragmatic
dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations.
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Precedent
Principle or rule that applies in future similar circumstances.
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Precedents
A court decision that is considered an authority and influences future decisions.