Ace the Ohio Government/Constitution Exam 2025 – Master Civics & Rock Your Score!

The major change that occurred in the Ohio Constitution in 1912 was the direct election of U.S. senators. This change aligned Ohio with the broader national movement advocating for the direct election of senators, a reform that aimed to reduce corruption and enhance democratic representation. Prior to this change, U.S. senators were chosen by state legislatures, which was seen as problematic and prone to influence from powerful interests.

The adoption of this reform in Ohio reflected a significant shift toward greater democratic practices and improved accountability in government, ensuring that senators were directly answerable to the voters. This transition was part of a larger wave of Progressive Era reforms across the United States during that period, which sought to make the government more responsive to the needs and preferences of the public.

Understanding this context highlights why this particular amendment was a pivotal moment in Ohio's constitutional history, emphasizing the state’s commitment to enhancing democratic principles at a time when such reforms were gaining momentum nationwide.