Major milestones in extending the franchise

Question 1

Great Reform Act 1832

Answer 1

During the 18th and 19th century the country underwent rapid economic change due to the industrial revolution. It shifted from a rural, land-based economy to a more urban, industrial one. It led to the middle classes as being a major economic force. It contributed more to the economy than landowning nobility. The most important economic group were denied representation as only landowners could vote. There was public discontent which led to the passing of Great Reform Act of 1832. The franchise was extended to men whose homes had an annual value of £10. The vote was extended to 300K men and 5.6% of the population could vote.

Question 2

Reform Act 1867

Answer 2

This extended the franchise to most men who lived in urban areas who paid £10+ in rent yearly. This extended the franchise to 1.5 million men.

Question 3

Representation of People’s Act 1918

Answer 3

Gave women over 30 and men over 21 the vote. The franchise was extended due to the suffragettes and women’s contribution in WW1. This was because when the war ended Parliament was worried that the suffragettes would become violent again

Question 4

Representation of the People’s Act 1928

Answer 4

Gave all citizens over 21 the vote. National Union of Societies for Equal Citizenship (NUSEC) would campaign peacefully for women’s rights. Labour denied extending the franchise , but the Conservative govt passed it instead

Question 5

Representation of the People’s Act 1969

Answer 5

Gave all citizens over 18 the vote due to their contribution in WW2. They were seen as capable and mature adults