Who had the franchise in Britain in 1780?

Question 1

How was Britain politically divided?

Answer 1

• Into constituencies, or voting areas
• Each one had one or two MPs to represent them in HOL

Question 2

Why was the county franchise a significant disadvantage for the poorer members of society?

Answer 2

• In the countryside, anyone with land worth over 40 shillings could vote
• In Middlesex - this was one 1% of the population

Question 3

What was the significance of this arrangement?

Answer 3

• Ensured that there was no real way for those of lower class to be represented

Question 4

How did the House of Lords secure the aristocracy’s position in society?

Answer 4

• Any decision could be vetoed by the HOL - which was dominated by nobility and landed elites