Pitts response to Radical threats Flashcards
What are the 2 Acts/ Gagging Acts and their effect?
These banned meetings that had not been approved by the local magistrate.
This was so Pitt could keep an eye on the corresponding societies illegal gatherings.
He also broadened the terms of treason to allow more arrests of known radicals.
What happened with Habeas Corpus and its effect?
Habeas Corpus is the right to a fair trial, which Pitt suspended so it could’t br used.
This was so Pitt could arrest suspected radicals but was used sparingly.
It was suspended from May 1794 - June 1795 and from 1799 to 1801.
What happened with trade unions and their effect?
Trade unions were banned in 1799 so that workers couldn’t complain about their employers effectively and not gain the rights they want
What is the Defence of the Realm Act and their effect?
This was made on 1798 to find out the number of people ready to fight for Britain, in case there was an issue with France. This was in response to a failed French invasion in Pensbrokshire in 1797.
What were the Loyalists societies and what did they do?
They were citizens loyal to Britain and argued and convinced people to go against Frances ideals.
They had 2,000 members that were in London and nearby counties. They called for loyalty and patriotism within the nation, which was more popular with people than a french style revolution.
What were the Populists and what did they do?
These were loyal citizens of Britain that produced anti-radical propaganda such as cartoons, caricatures and writings to convince the people against the French.
Radical in Britain were seen in the same light as French revolutionaries and French anarchy was contrasted unfavourably with British stability and prosperity.
Conservative writers and propaganda fed off of the British long standing idea of hating the French and the populations fear of radical change.
Why didn’t Britain have a French-style Revolution?
- The king and government had overwhelming support from the people, and there wasn’t a genuine desire to revolt
- Loyalists convinced many citizens that revolution was unpatriotic and released anti-radical propaganda
- The economic status was better in Britain than France
- The Radicals were wide-spread and weak
- The Government was united and had a strong leader
