In the United States, a ward is an optional division of a city or town for administrative and representative purposes, especially for purposes of an election.[1] Depending upon the state and local laws, the term ward can mean any of:
The ward system was the primary method used to elect city council members until the early 20th century when municipal reformers sought to replace it due to its control by political machines in major cities.[2]
In Wisconsin, a 'ward' is what in most other states would be a precinct.[3]
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