cardiff Flashcards
(17 cards)
What transport developments helped Cardiff grow in the 19th century?
The Glamorgan Canal (1794) and the Taff Railway (1841) connected coal mines to Cardiff docks.
Why did Cardiff become a major port in the 19th century?
Because of the construction of the Bute West Dock (1839), East Dock (1855), Roath Basin (1874), and Roath Dock (1887).
How did population growth contribute to Cardiff’s public health problems?
Cardiff grew from 1,871 in 1801 to 164,333 by 1901, leading to overcrowding and poor sanitation.
Why was Cardiff’s water supply a public health issue?
Polluted water supplies contributed to cholera outbreaks in 1849 and 1854.
What caused poor sanitation in 19th-century Cardiff?
Overcrowded housing, lack of drainage, and raw sewage in streets.
What was the mortality rate in Cardiff between 1842 and 1848?
30 per 1,000 – higher than the UK average of 20 per 1,000.
What were symptoms of cholera?
Violent vomiting and diarrhoea; it spread through contaminated water.
How did the 1849 cholera outbreak affect Cardiff?
396 people died, mostly between June and September.
What actions were taken during the 1849 cholera outbreak?
Town divided into districts, house inspections, medical officers appointed, and dispensaries opened.
Why was the Irish community blamed for cholera in Cardiff?
Anti-Irish feeling increased; the Irish were wrongly blamed for spreading disease.
Who was Dr Henry James Paine?
Medical Officer of Health from 1853–1889; improved sanitation and promoted inoculation.
What changes were made under Dr Paine’s leadership?
New sewage system (1856), HMS Hamadryad hospital ship, by-laws against dumping waste in River Taff.
What did the Rammell Report (1850) recommend?
Safe water, sewage system, refuse collection, and better housing.
What was the Public Health Act of 1848?
Allowed towns to set up a Local Board of Health for managing sanitation and water.
What was the Sanitary Act of 1866?
Forced local authorities to supply safe drinking water.
What public amenities were introduced to improve health?
Public baths (1862), Roath Park (1894), and Cathays Cemetery (1859).
What hospitals existed in Cardiff during the 19th century?
Dispensary (1823), Glamorgan and Monmouth Infirmary (1837), Cardiff Infirmary (1885).
