Influences on the extra-parliamentary protests

Question 1

How did the French Revolution aid the radical movement?

Answer 1

. It created a debate over whether traditional elites really deserved to maintain their power - inspiring the working class
. Furthered the idea that all men are fundamentally equal

Question 2

How did The American War of Independence aid the radical movement?

Answer 2

It showed the government could be challenged

Question 3

How did the end of the Napoleonic War in 1815 aid the radical movement?

Answer 3

. Led 300,000 working men back to Britain to find work - drove down the wages
. Combined with bad harvests made the price of bread rise - created popular discontent against the wealthy elites

Question 4

Why were The Corn Laws problematic for the industrial working class?

Answer 4

Kept corn prices high to protect farmers, but drove up bread prices for the poor

Question 5

How did Henry Hunt aid the movement?

Answer 5

He was important in spreading public awareness and inspired working class people to view universal suffrage as something worthwhile