Chapter 6: Political Impact of War Flashcards
What came under attack from the British public due to the War by 1812?
Military incompetence, bureaucratic scandal, interference with trade and the growth of the National Debt.
What was William Cobbett’s Political Register?
Denounced the growth of government patronage through War.
What did Jeremy Bentham argue?
That a more representative electoral system was essential.
How were the critics of the Parliamentary system weakened?
By their distance from the Parliamentary Whigs.
When was the first phase of the War with France brought to an end?
- March 1802 the Treaty of Amiens was signed.
How was Addington criticised for his involvement in the War?
Criticised before hesitating before declaring War againn in May 1803. Indecisive action.
What was the Levee en Masse Act?
Introduced July 1803, listing all men between 17 and 55 who were to be trained, armed and reay to fight. Although so many men came forward it was impossible to train them properly.
What War measures did Addington introduce?
Income tax to boost the war funds: believed it was important to defeat Napoleon at sea so ordered clean up of corruption within Navy Board, understood importance of attacking France’s trading ability so ordered blockade of French Ports.
Whilst Addington’s ministry was being criticised, what was Pitt doing?
Making rousing patriotic speeches.
What happened May 1804?
Addington stood aside and Pitt became PM once again.
What boost did Pitt’s government receive?
Huge psychological boost after Nelson’s defeat of the French at T rafalgar October 1805.
What was the status of Britain in the War under Pitt?
Continued to go Napoleon’s way. Britain’s coalition allies were soon in disarry=ay.
Pitt’s death was in 1806 and Grenville became the next PM. What did he achieve?
His government failed to establish a clear strategy for dealing with the War. Third coalition crumbled as Britain’s former ally signed treaty with Napoleon.
What brought down Grenville?
Catholic Emancipation, not the War.
What do Historians regard Perceval’s government as?
Weak and yet some Historians have given a positive assessment of his conduct. Pursued War more fruitfully than predecessors, provided basis for the winning administration.
