Political Impact of the Wars - French Wars Flashcards
Who was the monarch for the duration of the French Wars?
George the Third was the monarch from 1760 - 1820 and was served by 14 different prime Ministers. He suffered from bouts of illness and in turn his son would often take over.
How many PMs were there during the French wars and who was the most important?
There were six throughout the French Wars, the most of important of which was William Pitt the Younger who was minister from 1783 - 1801 and then again from 1804 - 1806.
What happened in 1812 due to the extreme circumstances of the conflict?
In 1812 Spencer Perceval was assassinated by a disgruntled businessman over tax laws and to do this date is the only British prime minister to ever be assassinated. He was replaced by Lord Liverpool who served until 1827.
Why was political representation so restricted?
Although Britain was a constitutional monarchy it was marred by a number of Rotten Boroughs and of a population of around 11 million only 282’000 people could vote. Politics was dominated by wealthy individuals and businessmen.
Why was the Treaty of Amiens welcomed by the British Government?
Britain had been fighting alone in the war since February 1801 after the treaty of Luneville brought Austria out of the war. The treaty lasted from 1802 - 1803.
What did Napoleon do during the truce of Amiens?
He worked to consolidate his power as Britain had accepted the status quo in Europe. He then proceeded to close his ports in the Low Countries, Italy and the West Indies to foreign traders with the establishment of his continental system. He increased the number of ships from 43 to 66.
When did Britain declare war again?
Britain declared war again in May 1803 but rather than declaring war on France itself they declared war on Napoleon.
What problems did the government face between the years 1803 - 1805?
There was a major invasion scare as it appeared like Napoleon was preparing to invade Britain in turn leading to many people volunteering to join the armed forces. However, this invasion scare ended after the the decisive Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
What was Napoleon’s continental system?
It was enacted in response to the British blockades of French ports that had started in 1806. Napoleon issued his Berlin decree in November 1806 which banned all European Nations from trading with Britain.
What did Grenville’s Orders in Councils do in response to the Continental system?
They were enacted in November 1807 and set in place that any ships not flying the British flag must dock at a British Port. Any that were found to be assisting the French were seized, any that refused to comply were sunk. It angered neutral nations and led to the war of 1812. In response Napoleon made his Milan decree in December which stated that all neutral shipping using British ports or paying British tariffs were to be recognised as the enemy and sunk.
