Gerrymandering

Gerrymandering is a 2010 American documentary film written and directed by Jeff Reichert. The film explores the history and the ethical, moral and racial problems raised by redistricting, i.e., the drawing of boundaries of electoral districts in the United States. Gerrymandering covers the history of the redistricting practice, how it is used and abused, how it benefits the two major political parties, Democrats and Republicans. Etymology The etymology of the word gerrymandering dates back to a redrawing of Massachusetts' state Senate election districts in 1812. It was named after the governor of Massachusetts, Elbridge Gerry, who signed a bill redistricting the state to his own advantage. One district was described as having the shape of a salamander; hence the term gerrymandering.