How did the extension of Universal Manhood suffrage affect the chances of women and free African Americans?

[Cait]

achieving the same right? Why?

[Menehune]

It had no impact. Voting rights reflect social and economic realities. As groups gain social and economic power their participation in government increases. If anything, as one group gains power they do it at the expense of others. Influence is generally seen in the markets and churches and unions and social organizations before the ballot booth.