Franchise owes its evolution to the development of representative government. In early history, only a select few individuals were allowed to participate in government and make decisions. However, with the emergence of representative government, the idea of granting the right to vote to the general public gained traction. Franchise refers to the right to vote in an election, and it was gradually extended to more people over time, including women and minorities who were previously excluded. This expansion of the franchise was a result of the belief that all citizens should have a say in the decisions that affect them, and it is now considered a fundamental aspect of democratic societies.