19th Century Britain

Key Words

Whig - Political party in parliament of England.   Tory - A member of the conservative party   Franchise - The right to vote in public election   Radical - Relating to or offering the fundamental nature of something   Unreformed system - Parliamentary system remained unchanged   Industrialisation - Process by which an economy is transformed from primarily agricultural to one based on manufacturing goods   Reform - Improvement of what is wrong   Ballot (Secret) - A device used to cast votes in the election   Constituency - A body of citizens entitled to elect a representative   Monarch - A person who reigns over a kingdom or empire   Aristocracy - A privileged, primarily hereditary ruling class     (highest class, small amount)   Working class - A social class marked by jobs that provide low pay, limited skill and physical labour   Middle Class - Business men or people in occupations higher than working class   Borough (const.) - A town sending representatives to parliament    County (const,) - Largely rural countries    Rotten Borough - A borough with few or no constituents / voters but have representation in parliament    Pocket Borough - A borough constituency that was in control by a wealthy person or family living I the constituency.

Early 19th Century

Structure of Government                                                                                                                      Monarch/King                                                                                                        Prime Minister and Cabinet                                                                            House of Lords (Hereditary)                     House of Commons (elected)

Characteristics of Britain  Rapidly industrialising  Increasing population Becoming urbanised (City/Town) A political system that was based on traditional/Middle Ages Britain Social and Economic change - Political system would need to 'catch up' A political system dominated by the Tories, Whigs found it difficult to gain power

Political power in the early 19th century was largely in the hands of the landowning class. They dominated parliament. The heads of the most important hereditary landowning families formed the House of Lords. The landed aristocracy controlled the election of many of the 658 MPs in the House of Commons.   In the counties, with open voting and widespread bribery, voters followed the wishes of the great landowners. Many of the boroughs had only a handful of voters who were controlled by local landowners. Voting was limited to a small minority of Protestant adult males.   The two political parties- Whigs and Tories - were rivals within the ruling class   The Whigs were more likely to question the power of the monarch and to defend the power of the Parliament. The leaders were mostly landowners, an increasing number of Whig MPs came from industrial or commercial backgrounds. They were more sympathetic and began to demand reform in the late 1820s. The Tories were keen to defend the power of the monarch and the Church of England. Nearly all the Tories came from landowning backgrounds. The Tories were more resistant to change and more fearful of the ideas of reform.

The Unreformed System

Unreformed System Britain was industrialising very rapidly and there was a huge increase in the population. More and more towns were growing and developing which resulted in major social and economic change. However, the parliamentary system remained unchanged.   Characteristics of the Unreformed System The unreformed system was dominated by the aristocracy (The highest class). Under the unreformed electoral system less than 5% of the total population qualified to vote. The franchise and right to stand for election were restricted to adult males and was dependent upon property qualification. Only some middle were able to vote (if they met the qualifications), therefore only the country’s wealthy landowners had a say.   Counties Whatever the size of a population, a county could send two MP’s to parliament. The franchise was dependent on if you had a house worth at least 40 shillings per annum.   Boroughs The voting qualification differed from borough to borough, depending on local customs. Rotten boroughs had become so depopulated that MP’s were selected and elected by a very small number of people – in some cases even by a single landowner. Pocket boroughs were constituencies in which wealthy individual owned all the land and buildings which provided occupiers with the qualification to vote. The landowner could nominate candidates and use his power to influence or bribe candidates. Despite the depopulation in some areas as many as four MP’s returned to Parliament. These areas were over-represented whereas the new industrialised towns with large populations were totally unrepresented in Parliament.   Corruption and Bribery Corruption and bribery were used to secure and retain power. There was no secret ballot, voting took place in public meaning the voters would feel intimidated to vote for their landowner or a specific party if they were present to see their vote. Landowners had a huge influence as their tenants homes or jobs depended on it. Sometimes people would sell their votes for as high as a price they can get. If voters could not be relied upon to vote the desired way they would be kidnapped and kept drunk until the vote was over.   Supporters of the unreformed system Tories arguments Gave a wide variety of people the vote. All interests were being represented in the system eg landowners had the interest of their tenants in mind. Deferential society -  Those who were of higher status were looked up to. It had worked well for centuries so why change it? Britain was a powerful and wealthy nation so the system must be working   General opponents of the system Whigs- Political opponents of the Tories. They wanted to change the system as it does not protect the Whig interest and made it hard for them to get into Government. Middle Class - Wanted the right to vote as they believe they were creating wealth for the country so should have a say in the way it is governed. Working Class/Radicals - Also believed they were contributing to wealth of the country by working. However, the general attitude towards the working class is that they were unrespectable as they were uneducated.   Key development that encouraged political debate 1780 - 1800 American War of independence 1776 - 1783. This was disastrous and crippling for Britain as America rose up against British Rule and Britain had to give up the colonies based in America. Seeing America go against Britain made some people think they should to. Fear that George III was abusing his royal power to keep the Prime Minister Lord North in power. Rotten Boroughs were being used to secure pre-government majorities (keep Tories in power) Early radical thinkers started researching on the parliamentary system and had a general feeling the system was corrupt  as it was protecting the interest of a few rather than the country as a whole.

Topic 1 - The Growing Pressure for Parliamentary Reform 1780 - 1832

Includes: Early attempts at Parliamentary Reform in 1780s Challenge of the French Revolution 1789 Main reasons for demanding Parliamentary Reform Significance of the Reform Act Crisis 1830 - 1832

Reform in the 1780's

William Pitt William was made Prime Minister in 1783 by George III Pitt’s policies included reduced expenditures (Money spent), new taxes to decrease the nation's debt and lower custom duties. He also advocated parliamentary reform but failed in 1785 to secure parliament’s approval (248:174) He wanted change! Economical and parliamentary reform, but parliament did not want change. However, there was a growing feeling that change was needed.

By 1780 there were growing calls for parliamentary reform. At this time, Britain was in the midst of the War of American Independence and there was a rising of criticism on the way the war was being conducted. Some MPs attacked the government for raising higher taxes. They also claimed the king was imposing policies using patronage (appointing people to government positions in order to gain their political support) to gain majority in Parliament which did not reflect on the people’s wishes. The government was accused of being corrupt as well as inefficient. In 1785 William Pitt proposed reform of Parliament. He proposed to disenfranchise 36 of the worst rotten boroughs and redistribute their 72 seats to London and the more highly populated counties. However, his bill failed to secure majority vote in Parliament.   “Time is not right” - 1780’s Little evidence that radicals gained enough popular support to encourage change. There was still a lot of support for the king and his rule The Tories still benefitted from Rotten Boroughs As national fortunes improved the need for reform seemed to drop off - Economics contributes to reform Not all the factors were coming together to make a change.   Evidence of growing change There was agreement between politicians that there needed to be a change in parliament but could not agree on how or what. Even though Pitt’s Bill failed, there was support for it (174 votes) Politicians were beginning to recognise the growing political class (Middle trade and business) Parliamentary reform was being discussed.

Radical Protest   Influences on radical protest French Revolution - Uprising against the French government leads to working class consciousness 1780 Population growth and industrialisation/urbanisation Rights Of Man - Male Suffrage - Thomas Paine Universal Manhood Suffrage - very influential Development of radical societies (Groups) in urban areas - influenced by the French Revolution and Thomas Paine - eg London Corresponding Society   French Revolution Many people have different views on if the French Revolution helped to reform politics or repress the need for change. Asa Briggs ‘It did not revitalise politics but led to repression from above’ EP Thompson ‘It started a long term political process which resulted in the formation of Working Class consciousness’ Impact on radical protest in Britain In the early stages had a positive reaction amongst politicians, especially the Whigs. As France became more violent (executing the king and other leading aristocrats ) many politicians distanced themselves as it created fear. Encouraged demand to limit the monarch's power. Had more of a negative impact.   Rights of Man Right of Man written by Tom Paine. Supported what was going on in France - dismissed the need to focus on the Monarchy or aristocracy. He called for Universal Male Suffrage.( All adult males within a political system are allowed to vote, regardless of qualifications. ) Influenced other radicals in Britain.   1790’s New Radicals 80 new political societies had been set up in areas such as London, Sheffield and Manchester. Tradesmen were often part of the groups. Members had to pay a penny a week. Would meet in local taverns. They lacked organisation and good leadership so they never posed a serious threat to the ruling elite.   London Corresponding Society AIms Universal Manhood Suffrage Annual Elections Redistribution of seats after abolishment of rotten boroughs Influenced by Thomas Paine. None of these ideas were new - it was the growing numbers involved in the society that was new. Growing numbers worried the government as thousands of people could be called upon to take part in demonstrations. The Chartists were influenced by the LC’s.   Reasons Early Groups did not gain Popular Support Majority of leading radicals were from the ‘middling class’ Had little/no direct contact with workers - links between middle and working class were not strong Radical goals of political change did not link to a programme to rid the workers of economic suffering. Government became increasingly repressive to the political societies.   Propaganda The Government used propaganda so that is anyone was discussing parliamentary reform/ getting rid of the monarchy they were referred to as ‘Vipers’ ‘Crush the vipers who would poison the minds of the public’’   Reaction of Government Spies infiltrated radical groups to know what the group was planning and allowed the government to create policies based on their prevention. Habeas Corpus suspended in 1790s - If you were suspected of a crime you could be kept in prison indefinitely. Large groups were not allowed to meet - lacking influential quality   Government Policies Landlords’ licences could be withdrawn if pubs hosted radical meetings. 1794 Habeas Corpus was suspended 1795 The Treasonable and Seditious Practices Act - widened the scope of the treason laws. 1795 The Seditious Meetings Act - banned meetings of 50 or more people whose object was to petition Parliament or demand reform.   War with France The war created problems in Britain. They needed to focus on winning the war not attacking the government. Seen as a traitor if continuing to protest in times of crisis. Radical protest stops for a while as many join loyalist organisations (Government repression) Protests do resurface after the war.  

The effects of war with France   Luddism 1810-11 there were reports of men with blackened faces attacking factories and mills by night. In industrial towns and villages of Nottinghamshire, Lancashire and Yorkshire (textile areas) Mills had installed new machines - the perpetrators were mostly skilled men who still used traditional, hand-operated machinery. These craftsmen felt their jobs and livelihood to be under threat from the new machines and from the employment of more and more women and children to mind the machines in the new factories. The attackers were known as Luddites. Thousands of troops were stationed in the north to counter Luddite threats. Machine wrecking was made a capital offence After several executions and the return of better economic conditions Luddite outbreaks petered out, but they shocked the authorities. They were not politically motivated; not part of an organised campaign for political rights.   The end of the war 1815 Britain emerged from the war victorious. It had been very expensive and the government had to increase taxes to pay off debt. The government promised that income tax would be temporary - The income tax was paid by the rich and middle class. As the income tax had to be dropped the government introduced new indirect taxes (middle and working class) These included taxes on everyday items like sugar, tea and beer. These taxes would hit the poor just as hard as the rich, but the poor would be hit much harder as a much higher percentage of their income would be spent on these items. On top of taxes came unemployment, over 300,000 men returned from war looking for work. Industries like textiles and coal, iron and engineering (producing weapons) now found government contracts dried up and so more workers were laid off.   The Corn Laws 1815 Britain had to rely on its own farmers to produce wheat needed to make bread. The landowners demanded a ban on imports of foreign wheat, Britain had to be self-sufficient in case of another war as they knew hunger and famine had been one of the major causes the French Revolution and were determined to avoid that in Britain. Wheat prices were kept high - wheat could not be imported unless British wheat is 80 shillings. Consumers were unhappy as bread was high priced and working class could not afford it.   When the Corn Laws were passed people stated it was ‘class legislation’ The corrupt government was looking after their own. The Middle class were annoyed as the government were protecting landowner interests who were the ones making wheat. It was taxes like these that convinced people that they could never expect fairness and justice unless the system of elections to Parliament was completely changed.

The Changing Response of the Government to Political and Social Pressures 1812 - 1830

Includes: The development of radical discontent and protest in Wales and England after 1812 Response of Lord Liverpool's Government 1812 - 1822 Reasons for and importance of the Liberal Tory Reforms 1822 - 1830

The growth of popular radicalism 1815-19   The radical press John Cartwright - a gentleman farmer who was a radical reformer and founder of the Hampden Club. He worked hard to convert his listeners, and readers to the cause of parliamentary reform and to establish links between reformers across the country.   The most widely read of all journalists was William Cobbett. He wanted to support and learn more about living and working conditions. He produced a Weekly Political Register which was read by thousands. Corbett had no doubt who was responsible for people’s suffering. He attacked the government, in particular he singled out the ‘placemen’ who received incomes, paid from taxes. He also attacked the government ‘pensioners’ who received money when they retired. He accused the governing classes of being ‘parasites’ as the working men and women starved so that the rich could live,   Winter of 1816-17 was very harsh. There had been a poor harvest and bread prices rose.   Political Clubs The Hampden Club founded in 1812 was the best known radical club. Established to agitate ‘general suffrage’ and aimed to win over ‘respectable support for reform’. Most ‘respectable’ people were far too afraid of radical ideas, fearing they would lead to revolution. Working men set up the club which was open to all men who could pay the 1d a week subscription. This money was used to finance the publication of pamphlets supporting manhood suffrage and the abolition of the Corn Laws. The club organised petitioning campaigns, they wanted to present a petition to Parliament.   Public Meetings Henry Hunt came from a farming background. Due to his fiery speeches he became a hero to the working class. He had no interest in winning the support of ‘gentleman reformers’, instead he looked to huge outdoor meetings, attended by ‘members unlimited’. He did not want any riots, he believed being well organised, orderly and peaceful that the masses could demonstrate their newfound power and discipline. The meetings were of such huge numbers, the government found it hard to resist the people’s demands. Method was known as the ‘mass platform’; Massive demonstrations, and the collection of thousands of signatures, for petitions in Parliament. This put irresistible amount of pressure in Parliament.   The Spa Fields meeting London, December 1816 A huge mass meeting in Spa Fields. Henry Hunt was due to address the crowd. The atmosphere was like that of a carnival. People in their thousands poured into the city, whole families, clubs and communities. Before Hunt arrived, a small section of the crowd rioted, breaking into gun shops, seizing weapons and marching towards the Tower of London. The riots lasted several hours and there was looting. However, the majority of the crowd was peaceful. When Hunt arrived, he called for lower taxes and the reform of Parliament.   In 1817, Parliament received over 700 petitions, some signed by thousands. The Whig Party were sympathetic, but they certainly did not want to grant the vote to all men. The petitions were ignored or dismissed.     The Government response to radical protest   The government knew hunger and hardship motivated many of the demonstrators. The government felt threatened, the demonstrations were close to revolutions when they turned violent. When the Regent’s coach was attacked soon after the Spa Fields, government suspended the law of habeas corpus.This meant people could be arrested without trial. With large meetings banned and habeas corpus suspended, the radicals were forced underground into secrecy. The Government resorted to the use of spies.   The Pentridge Rising, June 1817   The most famous spy was known as ‘Oliver’ He infiltrated a group of workers and led them to believe that if they rose up and marched on Nottingham, their rising would be the start of a nationwide rebellion. On the day about 200 men with pikes, forks and a few guns set off to march. When they arrived they were met by troops and rounded up. Following the trial the leaders were hanged and 30 were transported (sent to a penal colony, often Australia) The trial may have served as a deterrent to other agitators but the government involvement led to public outcry.

Lord Liverpool   Many social problems due to industrialisation, population increase, urbanisation. Radical demands for political change. There were demands for better living standards. The political system worked when the population was small but as the population grew the system became unequal. 1815 - 1822 Economic upset caused in part by the policy of the Tory Government. The fear that this unrest could develop into a repeat of the French Revolution led the Government to adopt a number of repressive measures.   Reasons for unrest   Economic problems People coming back from war Ending of Government contracts Unemployment New Machinery - Luddites   Government Economic Policies Once the war was over the Government wanted to return to Laissez-faire (leaving things alone) This resulted in: Income Tax 1815 - Replaced with indirect tax on goods eg sugar 1815 - During the war the price of corn rose allowing landowners to charge high rent.   Incidents of unrest 1811 - 1812 - Luddism 1816 Spa Fields London 1817 March of Blanketeers 1817 Derbyshire Rising 1819 Peterloo Massacre Manchester 1820 Cato Street Conspiracy   Spa Fields Dec 1816 Huge mass meeting - atmosphere like a carnival Mass meetings worried the Government as people in the thousands poured into the city. Turned up to listen to Henry Hunt. Henry Hunt - Peaceful, respectful, organised protest. Small section of crowd rioted - broke into gun shops, seizing weapons, looting. Political motivation for Working Class in the meeting of Parliamentary reform by Hunt. Also asking for lower taxes (economic issue) High unemployment - Many turned up Underlying economic and social hardship which results in the interest for reform. ROOT CAUSE FOR EVERYTHING.   March of the Blanketeers Organised march - approx thousands arrived - unemployed textile workers Intended to march from Manchester to London Requesting measures to ease problems in cotton industry. St Peter's Field Manchester - Troops sent in and broke up the march using force Many went home - those who tried to march got arrested. Wore blankets - blanketeers.   Peterloo 1819 Working class people held mass meetings to protest against the political system. One such meeting happened in Manchester at St Peter’s Fields in August 1819.   Around 50,000 people arrived at St Peter’s Fields from all around Manchester. Henry Hunt (a radical speaker) was due to make a speech calling for the reform of Parliament. Manchester at this time had no police force, so the army were sent to prevent any disturbances. When Hunt began to speak the army attempted to arrest him, and attacked anybody who got in their way. Eleven people were killed and 400 were injured. The consequences The government congratulated the army and those involved in keeping order in Manchester. Henry Hunt was sentenced to over two years in prison. The government banned meetings of more than 50 people at any one time. Tax on newspapers was increased so that working-class people could not afford to read them and they would be less likely to publish negative things about the government.   The Cato Street Conspiracy 1820 A group of radicals calling themselves the Spencean Philanthropists. Under the influence of these spies, Thistlewood and his comrades cooked up the plot known as the Cato Street Conspiracy early in 1820. Their plan was to overthrow the government and set up a Committee of Public Safety which would supervise a radical revolution. The Cato Street Conspiracy was an attempt to murder all the British cabinet ministers and Prime Minister Lord Liverpool in 1820. On 29 January 1820, George III died; this precipitated a constitutional crisis and the calling of a general election. The police had an informer and the plotters fell into a police trap and 13 were arrested, while one policeman was killed. Five conspirators were executed, and five others were transported to Australia.   The Tory Party The Major Reforms of the Liberal Tories   Financial and Economic reform 1822 - Many tariffs and restrictions on imports were removed. 1823 - Corn Laws modified by substituting a sliding-scale for the previous fixed rate. As British wheat rose in price, duty on foreign wheat reduced. 1823 - Reciprocity of Duties Act relaxed the Navigation Laws and allowed for foreign ships to carry goods into British ports.   Reforms of the Law 1823 - Death penalty removed from over 100 offences. 1824 - Measures taken to improve prison conditions 1829 - Metropolitan Police Force was established in London.   Religious reforms 1829 - Catholic Relief Act granted emancipation (the rights for Catholics to sit in parliament and hold public office)   Why did government adopt reform in the 1820’s? There was an improvement in the economy as post-war depression began to ease This lessened social unrest and allowed repression to be lifted   Fall of the Tory Party Wellington misread the mood of the nation when it came to the parliament system.   He does not want to make more liberal decisions - this influenced his speech. Thought members of the Tory Party would be alienated due to liberal ideas/reforms. Single speech led to fall of the Tory Government. When Wellington resigned this led to a general election. More and more people protested against the Tory Government as reform was wanted by the public.   In 1830 the Whigs came into power. Keen for change - Parliamentary Reform Know the only way they can stay in power is to change the system - Middle class vote.  

The Significance of the Threat from Rural and Urban Protest 1830 - 1848

Includes: Causes and Impacts of Merthyr Rising Causing and impacts of rural protest in Wales and England in the 1830s and 1840s Causes and impacts of the Chartist movement in Wales and England Government response to these protests

Swing Riots 1830   Events In August 1830 farm workers set fire to a threshing machine in Kent. This was the first reported incident of the Swing Riots. During the riots, it's thought around 100 threshing machines were destroyed.   Causes Economic Rural poverty - Time of economic hardship Poor Harvest Low Wages Insecurity of work - Machinery taking jobs Cuts in poor relief - Unemployment benefits cut   Political Rioters lacked the vote   Significance Made GOV reconsider some major social / economic issues Led to reassessment of Poor Law (Not only reason) Not really revolutionary Looking to restore old customs (backward looking) and older way of life Complaining about industrialisation Did not scare GOV - No massive impact No short term impact Long Term impact (combined with others)   Rebecca Riots Events 1839 - First attack of tollgate at Efailwen 1841/2   - Rebecca most active - Attacking numerous gates / workhouses attacked / tollgate keeper blinded   Causes Economic Rural poverty Problems with Toll Gates - Payments / Corrupt organisation of turnpike companies Living Conditions - Made worse by the depression Rents for farmland - Rent too high ‘Yearly leases’ - No support from English Landowners   Social Poor relationship between Landlords and tenants Fear of workhouses   Political Lack of the vote Those who could vote felt intimidated by their landlords Political power held by landowners Hatred of New Poor Law System GOV corrupt and controlled by aristocracy   GOV Reaction Local Movement (West Wales) - Not large - Suggests not very influential GOV reached by sending in army - eventually brought Rebecca under control Did not frighten GOV - Not influential Rebecca may have made the GOV think as West Wales were not known for protest GOV sent Commissioner of Inquiry to West Wales - Unusual reaction by GOV Did NOT like to reform based on protest but did change the Turnpike system The GOV did NOT deal with economic hardship, corrupt Government, landowners etc   Press - Thomas Campbell-Foster - Reporter from England researched Rebecca and wrote for ‘The Times’ Newspaper - Addressed poor conditions and allowed the issue to reach a wider audience   Rebecca’s change was limited to Wales and did not deal with underlying issues Merthyr Riots 1831   Events 1829 the iron industry hit depression. People were forced into debt, they were unable to pay off their debts and bailiffs came to seize the property of debtors. Carried flags in cows blood - red represents socialism and revolution. Burn debt books - wouldn't have to pay taxes A march was held by workers going house to house, seizing any goods which the Court of Requests had taken. People tried to get the crowd to disperse but they got angrier, a great fight broke out between soldiers and rioters.   Direct link between economic and political - desire for vote to change economic lives.   Causes Economic Merthyr - Industrial Town Economic slump Wage Reduction Unemployment Workers in debt - Feared property being seized   Social Poor living and working conditions Truck System - Workers paid in goods Epidemic eg Cholera Lack of worker independence - Homes rented from iron masters Population increase Courts of Requests - Bailiffs attempting to seize goods   Political Working class had no vote and Merthyr had no MP Combination of local and national issue Possibility of Trade Union Considerable radical activity in Merthyr - ‘Reform Crisis’   Significance Time of 1830/32 riots Saw beginning of development in working class protest in Wales Showed the need for parliamentary reform Highlighted to parliament the horrific work conditions Merthyr gained an MP BUT… Failed to lead to any significant changes to wages and living conditions but GOV was aware. Did not lead to spread in rioting - Army dealt with effectively GOV played down the rising The first MP was a wealthy, dominant ironmaster   Significance Time of 1830/32 Affected by poor economic conditions Truck system - Paid in tokens that had to be used in the factories shops - poor goods Saw beginnings of development in working class protest in Wales Showed the need for parliamentary reform

  Passage of the Great Reform Act 1832    Inside Parliament Whigs committed to moderate reform Allowed them control of the government Better chance of election wins Yes - Middle Class No -  Working Class Wanted to get rid of the worst abuses of the old system as they protect the Tory Party. Wanted reform for self interest - stay in power Earl Grey - PM Lord John Russell - Leader of House of Commons - presented bill to parliament Committee Stage - Bill rejected in 1831 Earl Grey resigned over the issue - showed how much he desired ´change´ Another general election Whigs back in power with Grey as PM Redo Bill - Gets to House of Lords and is rejected. Grey asked King for 50 new Whigs to be placed in the house of Lords, which the King rejects Within a week the Whigs and Grey were back in power under their terms and the Tory party were instructed by Wellington not to resist the bill Great Reform Act became law in May 1832     Outside Parliament Period 1830-32 shows how protest movement had matured. 1830 Swing Riots - People more politically aware. Rural Protest - Concerns over mechanisation (machines) in agriculture. Does not expand and remains quite localised. People are becoming more restless and in favour of reform - may influence the government (However, not campaigning for political reform, protesting against machines) 1831 - Failure of first reform bill. Working class of Merthyr protest Carried flags in cows blood - red represents socialism and revolution. Burn debt books - wouldn't have to pay taxes Issue - Economic Hardship Concerned about wages and prices Direct link between economic and politics - desire for vote to change economic lives. Wales made a point that they were unhappy. Did not frighten Gov in isolation but gave them support to reform parliament Linked with other factors much more protest develops across the country - Gov frightened Birmingham Political Union - Thomas Attwood Increased numbers - Working class and Middle class coming together to protest. Mass meeting across country - Henry Hunt, Thomas Attwood (EP Thompson - Historian - ´Britain was on the verge of revolution´ Widespread demonstrations occurred throughout the country - Pro Reform Bill radicals in Bristol, London and Midlands etc Worried the government as the protests were violent with mass numbers ´Go for Gold´ Destabilised the banking system Middle Class encouraged everyone to withdraw their savings from the bank. This worried the Government as the economy would collapse. May 1832 - ´Days of May´ Very violent protests -  if the Government had not reacted then Britain may have began a revolution.       What Changed?   Some rotten and pocket boroughs removed Changed constituency boundaries - New constituencies formed New industrial towns gained an MP Extended the franchise to bring in the Middle Class - Breaks bond between Middle and Working class.   Known as the Great Reform Act as it was a starting point for further change. Robert Peel stated before the Act was passed it will ´Open the flood gate for further reform´ which he said negatively, due to being a Tory.   Consequences / SIgnificance of Great Reform Act Known as the Great Reform Act as it was a starting point for further change. Robert Peel stated before the Act was passed it will ´Open the flood gate for further reform´ which he said negatively, due to being a Tory. Changed the Tory Party - By 1835 relaunched as ‘conservative’ - No longer resistant to all change or reform New middle class given a share of power and paved the way for a series of social reform - Broke link between WC and MC Working Class are disappointed that the Whigs did not change things for them and the Middle Class left them. This led to further Working Class protest (led by Middle Class radicals)    

The Extent and Impact of Social and Economic Reforms 1833 - 1848

Includes: Motives and pressures for social reform Importance of the Whig reforms 1833-1841 Anti-Corn Law campaign and the repeal of the Corn Laws Reform in factories and mines, public health, education and poor law

Social Reform 1830’s (The Whigs) The 1832 Great Reform Act was followed by a burst of social reform. For the Whigs, arguably the most extensive series of reforms that, up to this point, been attempted by any government.   Reforms included:   1. The first government grant for education 1833   2. The Factory Act 1833 – first ever regulation of factory conditions   3. The Abolition of slavery in the British Empire 1833/4   4.The Poor Law Amendment Act 1834 – an attempt to rationalise and improve the relief of poverty   5. The Municipal Corporations Act 1835 – a reform of local government   Public Health Act 1848   Mines Act 1842   Liberalism Adam Smith said the role of Gov should be minimal and the economy should be free from Gov control.   Some politicians believe that if you left the economy alone that social issues will be resolved as well ‘Laissez faire’ = ‘Leave it there’ There was a change of attitude in this period towards social reform and a move away from ‘Laissez faire’.   The classic liberal position was challenged by new liberals such as Jeremy Bentham and the ‘Philosophical Radicals’ who argued that some government intervention was necessary. Jeremy Bentham introduced utilitarian principles - Making decisions for the majority of the population, not the minority. This influenced the views of MPs and activists which resulted in the influence on aspects such as factory reform.   Utilitarianism To create happiness for the majority. Bentham wanted his beliefs / ideas put into action. Punishment was seen as more important than rewards. Utilitarianism taught that through infliction of pain - people would abstain from socially harmful behaviour. Punishment would work better to deter wrongful behaviour   Humanitarians Someone who works for the benefit of humanity by reducing suffering. Worked inside and outside Parliament. As some were MPs in Parliament they had more influence. Richard Oastler -  Campaigned for better factory conditions. William Wilberforce - Campaigned for the abolishment of slavery. Lord Shaftesbury was influential as the MP encouraged the further investigation into issues, this resulted in acts passed such as the Factory Act of 1833   Education 1833 The first Government grant (£20,000) for education. First time public money was used for education. Marks the beginning of Gov interest - first step towards a modern state education system. General concern that children working was creating an immoral working class influence.   Factory Act 1833 First law regulating factory conditions which was enforced by factory inspectors. Concern on children. Work by children under 9 made illegal. Child workers had to be schooled for a certain amount of time depending on their age. No more than 9 hours allowed to be worked between 9-13 years old. Parents would try and send their underage kids to work if they looked old enough. Royal Commision reports were very influential as investigations encouraged the Gov to make legislations Adult working hours and conditions left untouched and remained dreadful. However at least there was now a system of inspecting factories which would allow any future reform to be effective   10 Hour Movement Organised protest movement Concerns of moral and religious deprivation on young children. Oastler was a central figure - He was vital in voicing concerns however had little success with the Whig Government. Factory owners did not want to reduce hours as it would affect the factory.   1833 - The Royal Commission was set up to investigate employment on children. They wrote a report on what the factories were like. They took reform out of the hands of the 10 hour movement and into hands of the government. Royal Commission are very influential.   Social Reform   Poor Law Amendment Act 1834 The Middle Class favoured utilitarianism and due to having the vote can influence social policies. Poor Law Amendment Act clearly shows how the Gov supported and responded due to being influenced by utilitarianism. The act introduced workhouses in England and Wales.   Workhouses were said to reduce the economic burden of parish relief (claiming unemployment benefits from the Middle Class) Instead of claiming benefits, the Working Class would have to go to the workhouse. Workhouses were terrible conditions, worse than anything they would face on the outside. This was enforcing the idea of ‘Punishment over Reward) The system was designed so that people would not want to go to workhouses in the first place so would not ask for money in fear of being sent to a workhouse. The Working Class would not seek relief which meant the Middle Class would save money (Self Help)   Utilitarianism View - Old Poor Law did not bring the greatest good for the greatest number. Paupers were only small part of population and it was felt that too much money was being spent supporting the minority.   Impact of Poor Law Amendment Act Led to Popular Protest Did not deal with unemployment issues Cost a lot more than initially thought Became clear the Poor Law would not solve the social problems present.   1842 Mines Act 10 hour movement campaigned for 10 hour work. Peel was PM and said it would not happen, therefore the movement was ineffective. Influence of Lord Ashley was important as he chaired the commission. 1842 Royal Commission report was vital - People were horrified at the conditions faced by children in the mines as they were dangerous and immoral. Influence on public opinion was important as the Gov did not want to go back to the ‘Dark Days’ before 1832 where protests were popular.   Although Peel campaigned for change, the Gov had to agree. Lord Ashley was very influential as he was responsible for the Royal Commission report. Due to the reaction of the public once reading the report, the Gov was influenced into passing the Mines Legislation. The act banned all girls and boys under ten years old from working underground in coal mines. 10 Hour Movement only got the attention of the Gov. The Government reaction is what allowed for change to be present.   Public Health Act 1848 Pressures came from disease and doctors. The Government were worried that Britain was not productive. Edwin Chadwick was vital as he called for central control of public health. Chadwick was improved health as a way of reducing poverty and therefore spending less on Poor Law. 1842 Chadwick’s report indicated social evils were the result of insanitary conditions. However, there was little impact as the Upper and Middle Class were concerned that they would have to pay for reforms to improve conditions for the Working Class.

Protest Rural Protest   Rebecca Riots 1839/43 Causes Poverty Struggling with new industrial society Impact Raise Awareness Turnpike system reorganised in Wales May have influenced social reform eg 1848 Public Health Act   Swing Riots 1830 Causes More industrial way of living / working Poverty Impact 1832 Reform Act may have been influenced politics   Urban Protest   Merthyr Rising 1831 Causes Poverty Political - Wanting vote Upset about failure of Reform Bill Impact 1832 Reform Act   Anti Poor Law Campaign 1837 Causes Horrendous workhouse conditions Impact Commission sent to evaluate workhouses   Chartism   Typical Question - How far do you agree that the Chartism movement was mainly a result of economic hardship.   Chartism was a working class movement. Became a national protest movement (Mass Movement) Influential in Wales - Chartism march in Newport (only act of violence)   Key leading figures Feargus O’Connor - Advocated violent rhetoric (language) Physical Force eg protests, demands “Peacefully if we can, forcefully if we must”   William Lovett - Moral Force Chartist In favour of educating the working class and seeing them as a respectable class in order for change to occur.   Chartism was a politically motivated movement (The Vote) However, it has clear social and economic undertones. Some historians see Chartism as a ‘Knife and Fork’ issue. This means is is poverty driven - An economic issue.   The People’s Charter 6 Points - All political points (However, if the points succeeded they would link to economic issues being resolved) All men to vote Yearly elections Secret ballot Equal Constituencies (More equally represented) Removal of property qualifications (Property excluded Working Class from becoming an MP - Wanted that removed) Payment of MPs (If a Working Class was an MP he would need to be paid)   Clear Political Focus - Getting Working Class men representation in Parliament Working Class were disappointed with 1832 Reform Act as it only benefited the Middle Class. Henry Hunt lost his seat in Parliament - Political campaigner   However, evidence that Chartism was motivated by social and economic factors. Michael Sadler lost his seat - Campaigned for social reform   Factory Act 1833 - Chartism may have been influenced by the success of the factory reform.   Attack on Trade Unions 1834 - Trade Unions protected workers rights - Government tried to stop them. Joined Chartism in order to get males in parliament so that trade unions can develop / prevent attack on trade unions.   War on the unstamped - Government put a tax on newspapers to make them more expensive to ensure they were out of reach to the working class. Prevent them from reading radical article (Social)   Research Task Find two interpretations Reasons for the development of Chartism   Two conflicting interpretations   Interpretation One Traditional view that Chartism was a ‘Knife and Fork’ question. Only occasionally became a mass movement. Never a mass political movement. Only at times when economic depression was at its most severe that Chartism gained mass support. Chartism reflects ‘hunger and hatred’   Interpretation Two More recent work of historians Political demands - 6 Point of the People’s charter. Chartism represents the first genuinely national political movement of the working class. Popular protest came behind a programme for political reform. (developing since 1790) There was a close connection between the intensity of Chartism and economic distress but the relationship was not as simple as interpretation one. Chartism expressed the deep-seated radical belief that the economic grievances of the masses had political causes, therefore required political solutions. Origins of Chartism - Passage of the 1832 Reform Act when the lines of political exclusion in Britain were redrawn.   Reasons for Growth   Reform Act 1832 (Political) Felt alienated and excluded from the political system - Abandoned by the Middle Class. Established a state of more a politically conscious Working Class. Resulted in the People’s Charter which restated traditional radical demands for universal suffrage.   Opposition to the Whig Reforms in the 1830s Heightened burst of legislation. The 1833 Factory Act failed to secure the ten-hour working day. The Poor Law Amendment ACt of 1834 was clearly influenced by the interests of the Middle Class - Abolioshed existing form of relief and replaced with prison-like workhouses.   The ‘War of the unstamped’ Radical Newspapers such as Cobbett’s ‘political register’ played a major role in voicing radical ideas. Government introduced the Stamp Duty on Newspaper Act in 1819 which increased stamp duty on newspapers. Aim of the act was to push up the price of newspapers, making them too expensive for the Working Class to afford them. The Act was ignored by a large network, 700 sellers of radical journals were prosecuted but hundreds of illegal newspapers and journals were still distributed. In 1836 the government reduced the stamp duty. This was important as it continued communication of radical political ideas, the local radical networks were taken over by Chartists. The Northern Star newspaper became a vital organ of the Chartist movement and many of its journalists emerged as leading activists and speakers.   Attacks on Trade Unions In 1834 the Whig government decided to clamp down on trade uniform activity. The ‘Friendly Society of Agricultural Labourers’ was setup to fight wage cuts. The leaders were convicted and transported to Australia for the maximum sentence (7 years) Some historians point out that the attempt to clamp down on trade union activity and the prosecution and transportation of the leaders further alienated the Whig government in the eyes of the workers.   The state of economy Chartism’s emergence cannot be separated from worsening economic conditions after 1837. Strongest centres of early Chartism activity were areas where distress and the impact of industrial and technological changes were present. Hundreds of thousands of unemployed handloom weavers, unemployed due to technological advances, were all too ready to join the Chartist protest.   Was the Chartist movement a complete failure??   Major issues   Lack of organisation within the movement. Inexperienced leaders who lacked financial backings. Clear problems with the leaders of the Chartist movement and their views on how to get the aims met. Moral VS Physical force. Failed to maintain a unity of purpose. Eg Around the country, people did not want the same thing. Political VS Economic   Little Parliamentary Support - No political allies Government rejected all of their petitions. Aims were over ambitious - ‘Six Points’ unachievable Change in political scene saw a decline in Chartism (Liberal Party)   Government dealt with the movement very effectively (Peel) Arresting leading figures, transportation, successful confrontation of protest. The Government dealt with it all over the country - Made the Working Class feel defeated.   Chartism was popular during economic slumps. The support for Chartism declines when the economy begins to improve. Age of prosperity (Improved Economy in Britain) - Chartism ended   Chartism reflected an older way of protesting. The Working Class struggling to deal with a new industrial society. By 1850 the society is more settled and mature- Linked to the idea of prosperity. The Working Class has come to terms with the industrial society. A shift in attitude.   Did not engage the Middle Class. Often shunned by the Middle Class.   Achievements Partial success - Drew attention to social problems and the need to tackle them. 1848 Public Health Act   The movement managed to motivate people from all over the country, various backgrounds and included women.   Reflects all of the work that was done by previous protest groups - Political growth and awareness of the Working Class (Thomas Paine - Rights of Man)   Long Term 5 Points of the People’s Charter were achieved, not by the Chartist’s themselves, but have been placed into Government today.   From Chartism specific lessons were learnt - How to protest effectively, Organise the movement,  Spread the message (Northern Star Newspaper) Future protest groups were able to learn a lot from Chartism.   Chartism left a lasting legacy for Government. People’s right to vote should not be dependent on their property worth.

Anti-Corn law League 1838 Wanted cheaper bread and to reduce the wages bill.  The Leaguers argued persuasively that repeal of the Corn Laws and subsequent free trade would; Expand employment Lower the price of bread Make British agriculture more efficient and productive Promote international peace through trade   They appealed to the Middle and Working Class, attacking the aristocracy by stating that their selfishness was causing suffering. They handed out Pamphlets, Newspaper Articles, Speeches and ran Meetings. The economic depression of 1840 increased members. Failure of Irish potato crop 1845 led to mass starvation. Peel was gradually won over and in 1846 the New Corn Law was passed which reduced duties on many items.  

The Changing Fortunes of Political Parties and Leaders 1830-1880

Includes: Sir Robert Peel, the Conservative party and the effectiveness of his reforms 1834 - 1846 The reasons for the formation of the Liberal Party The main features of Gladstone's first ministry, 1868 - 1874 Disraeli, the Second Reform Act of 1867 and Conservatism in action 1874 - 1880

The Changing Fortunes of the Conservative Party   Very often in an exam question I will have to ; Compare the importance of Peel’s role to the influence of Disraeli, Whig Failures and Economic Conditions.   Robert Peel Prior to 1830 he was the Home secretary. Peel supported Wellington over the issue of Catholic Emancipation 1828/29 (More rights for Catholics) This issue split the Tory Party - It caused great divisions! Traditional members of the party thought Peel was going against Tory Party principles, betraying them.   Leadership Problems - Death of Liverpool in 1828 Canning unpopular Goderich Ministry collapsed in 1828 Wellington MP up to 1830 3 Factions emerged ; Canningites, Ultras, Supporters of Wellington   1830 Collapse of the Tory Party Wellington’s speech over Parliamentary Reform resulted in the collapse of the Tory Party. States there is nothing wrong with the way parliament is structured - This made the party lose support. The speech saw the Tory Party in the political wilderness for a number of years.   How did the Tory Party recover after 1832?? Role of Peel and importance of Tamworth Manifesto 1832 Reform Act united the party against further reform. Accepted the reform act but did not support further parliamentary reform. In 1834 Peel issued the Tamworth Manifesto (Party Promise) Became the Conservative Party Manifesto Turning Point in direction of the Tory Party “Founder of modern Conservatism” - Gash Appeals to more and more people - Modernises the Party Shift from the use of the word ‘Tory’ to ‘Conservative’ Peel states the Conservative Party will always be in favour of reform (other types) but would always preserve what was good about the British System. Very Important - Demonstrated to the public that the Conservative Party would be progressive but maintain their principles.   Party Organisation The party became much more organised and structured. Sir Francis Bonham 1832 Carlton Club set up as the Conservative Party Headquarters Conservative regional offices around the country   Whig Failures Working Class disappointed with Whig legislation However, have no influence in Parliamentary power Middle Class disappointed with the lack of economic reform During late 1830s after a major economic downturn the Whigs had no clear policy on economic recovery Campaigns against the Poor Law Amendment Act - More expensive than they thought Lichfield House Contract made it look like the Whigs would do anything to remain in power. Whigs formed an agreement with the Irish in order to stay in power. Wanted to remove Peel from his 100 days in office This made people see them as devious   Economic Factors Government debt of £7.5 million Economic depression Reintroduction of income tax The reform of the banks   Solutions   Economical   The Budgets and Free Trade The issue of Free Trade The Whigs had failed to make any progress and over 1200 goods were still subject to tariffs. Peel came under the influence of the Manchester Group – who believed tariffs were stifling industry. The higher taxes on imported goods the higher the cost of production – so prices were kept high – hitting the poor. Also Foreign countries resented the tariffs so were unwilling to trade.   Peel “ We need to make this country a cheap place to live in”   The Budgets 1842 and 1845   The budgets swept away a large proportion of the remaining duties. Duties removed form over 600 items Duties greatly reduced on 500 others   No longer any export duties No import duties on raw cotton, livestock meat potatoes Duty on cheese imported from the colonies reduced from 10 shillings to 1 shilling per hundred weight   How successful?? Worked exactly as Peel wanted – a trade revival followed, exports increased, unemployment fell, food ( not bread) became much cheaper.   Income Tax Income tax was reintroduced at a rate of 7p in the £ on incomes over £150 per year. (should have only lasted 3 years)   How successful? Together with the trade reforms – Paid off the Whigs's debt and had £2 million left over.   The Bank Charter Act 1844   The banking system was unstable – any bank could issue notes with any face value, without the gold reserves to support the value. Key features of the Act No new banks could issue notes Existing banks were restricted in issuing notes Bank of England could issue notes to the value of £14 million; anything beyond that figure had to covered by Gold reserves.   How successful? Very successful, eventually only the Bank of England issued notes, and controlled the amount of currency in circulation. The £ became stable and London the monetary (money) centre of the world.   The Companies Act 1844   This act placed controls on the formation of companies. All companies had to be officially registered and produce accounts.   Limited success but some companies – those who needed special approval from Parliament were exempt (free from obligation)   Peel’s reforms moved Britain into a golden age of prosperity that was to last until 1875.   Social Peel was aware of the terrible conditions in some factories and towns. Peel did not want to pass laws – it would be more effective to let the economic policies bear fruit. Peel did not want to lose the support of the middle class businessmen.   Pressure for social reform 1842 – Unemployment reached its peak Unrest led by the Chartists Pressure from Lord Shaftsbury – 10 hour movement. Pressure from Edwin Chadwick – investigation into public health.   Extent of Reform Mines Act 1842 – result of report on child labour. Limits women working mines, and children under 10. 10 hours a day Factory Act 1844 – limits working to 10 hours Railway Act 1844 – limits cost of travel some trains 1p per mile Baths and Wash House Act 1846 – provision of low cost local wash houses.   Limits of the Reforms Was Peel a reluctant reformer? Peel refused to further amend the Poor Law. 1842 Mines Act – a step forward but only one inspector for the whole country. Peel’s resistance to reducing daily working hours for women to 10, on the grounds it would harm the economy. No legislation to combat the problem of public health. All the reforms came from external pressure and not from Peel, Peel do not like Government intervention.   Ireland In Irish politics Daniel O’Connell was losing influence to a group called Young Ireland, who favoured the use of physical force to free Ireland. O’Connell staged a last attempt to force the British to repeal the Act of Union. He addressed mass meetings, Tara in 1841, and the climax to the campaign was to be a monster meeting at Clontarf in 1843.   The response of Peel Peel was not going to be frightened into giving way. He announced that the Union would never be cancelled and any rebellion crushed. The meeting at Clontarf was banned. O’Connell now face a difficult choice; Meet and be charged with rebellion Cancel and be called a traitor by Young Ireland O’Connell called the meeting off, Peel had out manoeuvred him.   Impact of Ireland on Peel and his Party. Irish affairs had deeply divided the Conservative Party. Peel had not be able to tackle the country's basic poverty. Worse was to come, in 1845 the Irish potato crop had failed, famine was imminent. Repeal of the Corn Laws now seemed vital.   The struggle to repeal the Corn Laws. The Anti Corn Law League Leaders : Cobden and Bright Methods : non–violent, always within the law. Propaganda newspaper, leaflets, mass meetings, new postal system Activities: mass meetings, 136 in 1843 Divided country into areas, paid agents, fund raising from the middle class, petitions, get representation in Parliament.   Arguments for and against repeal   For They were a restraint on Free Trade, kept food prices high, the rich gained at the expense of the poor. If bread prices fall, real wages would increase, workers could buy more with the same money. Improve the competitiveness of British Farmers If we imported foreign corn, we could export more goods. Improved trade would improve international relations. Response to the Famine   Against Cheap foreign corn would ruin British farmers Unemployment would rise in agricultural workers Demographic shift to the towns, overcrowding etc. Dependence on imports could be a problem in a war. Manufactures only wanted cheaper bread so they could pay lower wages.   Stages of repeal 1841 – election of Abolitionist MP’s forced Peel to slightly reduce duties Between 1842 – 45 Peel became convinced of the need for Repeal – British farming needed to modernise to keep pace with industry Peel was faced with the problem of leading a party committed to the Corn Laws 1845 – Irish famine, imported maize did not solve the issue, Scottish and English potato crop also failed. Peel told Cabinet that repeal of the Corn Laws was only way to solve famine. Debate as to whether Peel actually believed this or used it as an excuse to force reform. Peel was not supported and resigned in December 1845. Whigs,led by Russell, form a Government. Introduces a Repeal Bill, debated in Parliament for 5 months, Peel under attack from Protectionists led by Disraeli, Peel accused of betrayal. Repeal Bill passed in 1846 – only with Whig support. Wellington got the bill through the Lords.   Effects of repeal No dramatic drop in prices – poor harvests were Europe wide No real impact on British farmers British Farmers did modernise – and could cope with the increase demand for food – so more profits. Trade improved No impact on the Irish Famine Destroyed Peel and the Conservative Party   Why was the Anti Corn Law League successful? Single issue Conservative Party were split Support form the industrial middle class – funds for the campaign Top blokes in charge – Cobden and Bright Irish Famine ACLL used all the tools they had – a nationwide campaign.   Was Peel a successful Prime Minister?   Yes His policies led to an age of prosperity – financial stability, trade revived. He restored confidence in politics – out manoeuvred the Chartists and O’Connell He was a progressive reformer? Accepted things he had previously opposed He was a man of principle   No A one trick pony – all his faith in free trade None of the ideas were his – in fact he often started by opposing many things he later accepted.   Did Peel betray his Party?   No The new party under his leadership adapted to the demands of the 1840’s He didn’t destroy,he created – gave the party a sense of purpose. Peelite supporters remained within the party even after 1846.   Yes Peel sacrificed his party on many occasions 1829, 1834, 1842, 1845 Ignored traditional party values – landed interest Ireland The Corn Laws   Did Peel put the nation above party politics? Yes Peel was more concerned with good government that catered for all the people even at the risk of being unpopular in his own Party. His policies were designed to draw moderates away from extremes. Peel gave the Party a national appeal and national leadership, he was a hero of the new enfranchised classes   Peel’s Second Ministry 1841 - 1846   Key Issues/ Questions To what extent was Peel the most successful Conservative prime minister of the 19th Century? (Peel VS Disraeli Did Peel create the modern Conservative Party? Did Peel betray the Conservative Party? How successfully did Peel deal with problems during 1841 - 1846?   How successfully did Peel deal with problems during 1841 - 1846??   Peel’s Problems in 1841 Ireland Economic issues Corn Laws Free Trade Budget Deficit (Whigs spent more money than what was coming in)   Social Issues Unemployment / Poverty Poor Living and Working conditions   Political Issues Different factions - Need to bring groups together (Instability) Not popular (Skeptical of Peel) Catholic Emancipation 1828/29 - Betrayed party principles by agreeing   Economic Issues Create the policies for the good of the country. However, as he is leader of the Conservative Party some feel betrayed.   Budget deficit - £7.5 Million in debt. Focuses on introducing a Free Trade budget Reduced duties on cheese, spices (Many different products) 1844 - Reduced duties on sugar. Reduced duties - Increase productivity, competition and lead to an increased trade. This in turn would improve the budget deficit. Proved to be successful in improving trade (Positive) Middle Class (business owners) worried about the potential problem of people buying reduced goods on their business.   Income Tax Reintroduced Income Tax to people earning £150 a year. Affected Middle and Upper Class. Income Tax would raise money for the budget deficit. Although it was only supposed to last three years, it went on indefinitely. Caused friction among the Middle and Upper class, although seen to be successful.   Corn Laws Introduced in 1815 - taxed imported corn This was to protect the agricultural industry in Britain. (Protected the Landowners.) Consumer (Working Class) is paying a higher price for bread (Exploited) Protests (Read Anti-Corn Law League)   Peel (Free Trade) Looks to repeal the Corn Laws as he believes it will make Britain economically wealthier due to being more competitive in the open market. Members of the party disagree as they believe his job is to protect party interests. As the party was made of Landowners, they disagreed as the Corn Laws ‘protected’ them. Peel did successfully repeal the Corn Laws (Got it through Parliament) with support from the opposition. After 1846 there is a ‘Age of Prosperity’ - Economically successful Many party members believed he betrayed them. The Repeal of the Corn Laws were unforgivable in the parties eyes.