Which act, passed in 1917, allowed rural counties to control elections in Georgia?

The Neill Primary Act, passed in 1917, was significant in the context of Georgia's electoral process, particularly as it allowed rural counties to have greater control over the administration of elections. This act established a system that enabled local county officials to manage primary elections, emphasizing the importance of local governance in electoral matters.

By granting this authority, the Neill Primary Act effectively solidified the power of rural counties in determining candidates for the general elections. Such control was crucial during a time when rural communities often felt marginalized compared to urban areas, and it reflected a broader national trend where local interests sought to assert their influence in the political process.

Other acts mentioned, like the Smith-Lever Act, primarily focused on agricultural education and extension services, while the Grandfather Clause was related to voting eligibility and often disenfranchised African American voters, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 aimed to combat racial discrimination in voting. Thus, the Neill Primary Act stands out as a pivotal law specifically addressing electoral control for rural counties in Georgia during the early 20th century.