3.1 Changes in British society in the 18th and 19th centuries Flashcards
(25 cards)
What percentage of the population could vote before 1832?
5%
Only a small fraction of the population had voting rights prior to the reforms initiated by the 1832 Reform Act.
What was a major consequence of the Industrial Revolution from 1750 to 1850?
Increased production due to worldwide demand for British goods
The Industrial Revolution led to significant changes in production methods and economic structures.
What was established in 1840 that improved transport in Britain?
A new network of roads from London to all major cities
This development facilitated easier travel and trade across the country.
By 1900, what fraction of the world’s land and population did Britain rule?
One fifth of the world’s land and one quarter of the world’s population
This reflects the vast expansion of the British Empire during this period.
What were the attitudes towards migrants in 19th century Britain?
Many worried migrants would take jobs from them
Economic competition often led to negative perceptions of migrant communities.
What did industrialization lead to in terms of job opportunities?
Increased job opportunities due to growth of towns and factories
The rise of industrial towns created a demand for labor.
What did the 1832 Reform Act achieve?
More men owning property or paying higher rents could vote
This was a significant step towards expanding the electorate in Britain.
What major transport development linked the Worsely Coal mines and Manchester in 1761?
Bridgewater Canal
This canal was crucial for transporting coal and other goods efficiently.
What happened to the American colonies in 1783?
They became independent
This event marked a significant change in British colonial power.
How were Jewish communities viewed in Britain during the 19th century?
Viewed as ‘alien’ or ‘foreign’
This perception contributed to social tensions and discrimination.
What economic power attracted migrants to Britain during the growth of the Empire?
Britain as a major economic power
The opportunities presented by the British economy were a draw for many migrants.
What significant legislation was passed in 1829 regarding religious rights?
Catholic Emancipation Act
This act allowed Catholics to have the same rights as Protestants.
What significant change occurred in 1858 regarding Jews in Britain?
Jews could become Members of Parliament (MPs)
This marked a major step towards political inclusion for Jewish communities.
What fueled the transformation of textiles during the Industrial Revolution?
Weaving and spinning machines
These innovations greatly increased the efficiency of textile production.
What was the significance of the slave trade being abolished in 1807?
It marked a major shift in British policy regarding slavery
This was a critical step towards the eventual abolition of slavery in the British Empire.
What was the urban population of Britain in 1700?
5 million
This figure highlights the demographic changes that occurred by 1900.
What was the urban population of Britain in 1900?
32.5 million
The rapid urbanization during the Industrial Revolution is evident in this increase.
What major railway opened in 1830, connecting Liverpool and Manchester?
Liverpool to Manchester Railway
This railway was cheaper than the previously established Bridgewater Canal.
How many miles of track did the five major railway companies operate by 1900?
22,000 miles of track
This extensive network facilitated transport and trade across Britain.
What event began after 1885 that expanded British territorial claims?
Scramble for Africa
This led to the acquisition of significant territories in Africa.
What types of labor did migrants often take on in Britain?
Manual labor that others did not want
Migrants often filled jobs that were less desirable to native workers.
Name some major ports where new docks were built.
- Liverpool
- London
- Cardiff
- Bristol
- Hull
- Glasgow
These ports were crucial for trade and migration.
What was the significance of the SS Great Western in 1838?
It traveled from Bristol to New York
This voyage marked an important development in transatlantic travel.
What was the significance of the SS Great Britain in 1852?
It sailed from Liverpool to Australia
This ship represented advances in maritime engineering and travel.