boer war: impact on britain Flashcards
(20 cards)
Describe the initial public support for the Boer War in Britain.
Initially, there was much support for the Boer War, driven by pride in the British Empire and beliefs in racial superiority. However, as the war continued for three years, public concern grew.
How did the concept of racial superiority influence British attitudes during the Boer War?
The concept of racial superiority, particularly the belief in the ‘Anglo-Saxon’ race as a carrier of distinct values and institutions, influenced British attitudes by fostering a sense of imperial mission to improve life for what were perceived as ‘lower races’.
Define the political landscape in Britain during the Boer War era.
During the Boer War, the political landscape was dominated by two main parties: the Conservative-Unionists and the Liberals, with significant divisions over issues like Home Rule for Ireland. The House of Lords held considerable power, and the franchise had been widened by the Parliamentary Reform Acts.
What role did the press play in shaping public opinion during the Boer War?
The press served both as a reflection of public opinion and a shaper of it. With increased literacy and cheaper daily papers, publications like the Daily Mail became crucial in disseminating imperialistic views and war coverage
How did the Daily Mail impact public perception of the Boer War?
Launched in 1896, the Daily Mail, with its cut-price circulation and fierce imperialistic stance, became a significant voice of the Empire, influencing public perception and increasing engagement with the war
Identify a key political event that occurred after the Boer War and its significance
After the Boer War, the significant political event was the clash between the House of Commons and the House of Lords over Lloyd-George’s Budget of 1909, which culminated in the Parliament Act of 1911, altering the balance of power in British politics.
Describe the impact of photography on public perception during the Second Boer War.
Photography, with the introduction of cheaper cameras like the Brownie and the use of cartridge film, allowed for widespread dissemination of images that shaped public opinion about soldiers and the war.
How did the term ‘Khaki fever’ reflect public sentiment during the Second Boer War?
‘Khaki fever’ described the intense enthusiasm and volunteerism for the war, characterized by a craze for khaki uniforms, as noted by John Burns’ phrase ‘Khaki clad, khaki mad and khaki bad’.
Define the political divisions within the Liberal Party regarding the Second Boer War
The Liberal Party was split between Liberal Imperialists who supported the war and Radical Liberals, socialists, and Irish nationalists who opposed it, leading to significant internal conflict.
What role did war correspondents play in shaping political influence during the Second Boer War?
War correspondents had a huge political influence by reporting on the war, which affected public opinion and political discourse surrounding the conflict.
How did various religious groups respond to the Second Boer War?
Religious opposition to the war was divided, with Anglicans, Methodists, Nonconformists, and Quakers expressing differing views, though their overall impact was limited
Identify the criticisms directed at the Second Boer War and its implications.
Critics argued that the war distracted from social problems at home, exploited native people, and was driven by imperial greed, leading to a split in the Liberal Party and opposition from various groups.
Describe the political climate surrounding the Khaki Election of 1900.
The Khaki Election of 1900 was characterized by a strong Conservative-Unionist majority, with Chamberlain urging patriotism. The election highlighted divisions within the Liberal Party, as neither the Imperialist nor Radical factions were satisfied with the leadership.
How did the Second Boer War financially impact Britain?
The Second Boer War cost approximately £217M, leading to various financial strategies including increased taxes on refined sugar and coal, as well as a rise in income tax. The government also borrowed about two-thirds of the war’s cost.
Define the main disagreement between Charles Ritchie and Joseph Chamberlain regarding post-war financial policy.
Charles Ritchie favored retrenchment, advocating for cuts in spending, while Joseph Chamberlain supported tariff reform, proposing increased taxes on imports from outside the British Empire to strengthen imperial unity and fund social reforms.
Explain the consequences of tariff reform proposals on the Conservative-Unionist coalition.
Tariff reform proposals led to divisions within the Conservative-Unionist coalition, as free-traders opposed the reforms due to concerns over increased food prices and protection of inefficient industries, ultimately contributing to Balfour’s resignation in 1905.
What was the outcome of the 1906 General Election and its significance?
The 1906 General Election resulted in an overwhelming Liberal majority, which was significant as it marked a shift in political power and reflected the divisions and dissatisfaction within the Conservative-Unionist coalition over issues like tariff reform.
How did the Liberal Party respond to the aftermath of the Khaki Election?
In the aftermath of the Khaki Election, the Liberal Party faced internal divisions, with figures like Campbell-Bannerman criticizing the government’s methods, while Liberal Imperialists sought to reconcile with Liberal Unionists but ultimately failed to replace Campbell-Bannerman.
Describe the political landscape in terms of seats held by major parties during the election.
Liberals held 400 seats while Conservative-Unionists held 157 seats.
How did the Second Boer War influence public sentiment towards imperialism?
There was evidence of both pro-imperial and anti-imperial sentiment after the Second Boer War, with pro-imperial sentiment seen in textbooks and movements like Scouting, while anti-imperial sentiment was less significant for the Liberal Party.
