The economic, political and social state of Britain by 1832 Flashcards
What was Britain now a very different country in comparison to?
The Britain of 1783
What stimulated most of the political, social and economic changes during the early 19th century?
The process of industrialisation and population growth
Why had the economy been able to grow so rapidly during the early 19th century?
The new technologies in the coal and iron industries
What was stimulating trade and bringing new wealth into the country at this time?
More efficient use of natural resources
Give an example of efficiencies of scale at this time
The mass production runs in Manchester cotton mills were far more productive than the previous cottage system
What did the widespread implementation of technology alter?
The way in which people lived, meaning society changed as the economy grew
Why did greater wealth actually bring about increased social tensions?
Because this wealth was enjoyed disproportionately by a relatively small number of people
Explain the dismal life endured by those who worked in the new factories
They worked long hours for a low wage and went home to poor quality dwellings set in an urban sprawl - they could not derive much pleasure from the country’s prosperity
What did the labouring poor manage to enjoy?
Better food, as result of agricultural improvements making food production more efficient
What is the irony about the industrial labouring poor enjoying better quality food?
Because this was the result of enclosure, the very thing that had driven so many out of their rural homes and into the industrial centres in search of work
What is the key difference between the 18th and 19th century British economies?
In the 18th century, the economy was agrarian/domestic based but was replaced by a manufacturing/trading economy in the 19th century
What did these changes to the economy and society give impetus for?
The emerging manufacturing classes to challenge the unrepresentative, aristocratic system of government
What was the consequence of the urban middle classes being involved in the political process for the first time following the GRA?
It gave them an opportunity to inject society with ideas of humanitarianism, improvement and consumerism
What were the disappointed working classes doing?
Looking at ways to influence society and government by acting together, assisted and inspired by middle class philanthropists like Robert Owen, with his brand of socialism
