2nd Reform Act Flashcards
(21 cards)
Evidence of long term pressure for reform in parliament?
Russell proposed bills from 1852-60.
Derby proposed a bill in 1859
How is reform started in the 1860s?
By the Liberals under Gladstone. Tame in nature- would give only 200,000 more men the vote.
What happened to Gladstone’s Bill? And after?
Rejected in the HoC as ‘too radical’ in 1866. Led to Hyde Park riots.
What did Disraeli’s bill do?
Gave the vote to all male householders in the boroughs, but provisions to dilute w/c vote. Resulted in enfranchisement of nearly double the amount Gladstone’s would’ve.
Evidence of conflict between Gladstone and Disraeli
Disraeli turns down every amendment suggested by Gladstone, but accepts more radical ones from liberals.
Evidence of Disraeli’s bill becoming more radical in parliament?
Abandons idea of fancy franchises and reduces residence qualification.
Hodgkinson amendment adds 500,000 voters.
3 key reasons for reform in 1867?
-Political rivalry
-Popular pressure
-Changing attitudes
Which popular figure increased support for reform?
John Bright; advocated for the sort of democracy that now existed in the US.
Which pro-reform organisations emerged?
Reform League and Reform Union; worked together and developed national organisations to put pressure on MPs.
Evidence of renewed social tension?
1866 Reform League demonstration in Hyde Park ended in violence; other popular uprisings such as in Trafalgar Square.
Why did the conservatives want to pass the reform act in 1867?
-Had been in opposition for 20 years, and saw reform as a way of regaining popularity.
-Saw 1832 as only benefitting Whigs; wanted to reform in their favour.
Why did liberals want to pass reform in 1866?
Belief that those enfranchised would support liberal policies, strengthening their success.
Evidence of reform due to political rivalry?
Disraeli wants to one up Gladstone; constantly rejected his amendments.
Why did the American Civil war change attitudes?
-Creates a climate of revolution again
-Gains workers credibility due to their support for the North on moral grounds.
Why did Russell change his attitude?
Believed that working class craftsmen deserved the vote; increased community: friendly societies, cooperation helped w/c reputation.
What ideologies at the time influenced attitudes?
Ideas of Mill
Ideas of Marx
Impact of 1867 on improving representation: the franchise
Almost doubled the franchise; one in three men could now vote. Working class dominated the borough electorate.
Lack of impact of 1867 on improving representation: the franchise
Middle class still dominated county seats.
Lack of impact of 1867 on improving representation
Clauses to ensure conservative representation in boroughs like the Minority Clause.
Lack of impact of 1867 on improving distribution
Rural south over represented; SW returned 45 MPs whereas NE with 3x the population returned 32.
What happened after the 1867 Reform Act?
Disraeli called an election and lost massively, losing seats to the liberals.
