William Pitt

Question 1

How old was Pitt when he became MP?

Answer 1

21

Question 2

Why was he able to become an MP from such a young age?

Answer 2

Rotten boroughs were a recognised route for able, well-connected young politicians to reach parliament.

Question 3

Which two factors helped Pitt rise up the parliamentary rank so quickly?

Answer 3

His own abilities
political instability as a result of Britain’s war with America

Question 4

In which years did Pitt introduce Parliamentary reform?

Answer 4

1783- bill was defeated , ban bribery
1785- bill was defeated , increase the electorate by 30 percent

Question 5

What did Pitt think of the parliamentary system of government?

Answer 5

it was a ‘beautiful system of government’ he wanted to ‘dislodge unsightly barnacles’

Question 6

why did Pitt not push for reform the third time?

Answer 6

His party did not support him
feared loosing the support of king george 3

Question 7

Give arguments that show Pitt was a true believer of reform?

Answer 7

• tried to push it twice
  -went against his party to push reform
  -many of his early speeches focused on reform
  -

Question 8

Give three arguments that Pitt did not full support political reform?

Answer 8

-Stopped pushing reform when his party didnt support him
-had other priorities
-did not force the issue

Question 9

what event took place that changed Pitts political position

Answer 9

The French revolution