Industrial Revolution in England – UPSC GS1

Chartist Movement Working-class movement for political reform in Britain which existed from 1838 to 1858. Used Petitions. The Chartists’ six main demands were: votes for all men; equal electoral districts; abolition of the requirement that Members of Parliament be property owners; payment for M.P.s; annual general elections; and The secret ballot. The Chartists were able to spread information relatively quickly using a network of newspapers, as well as mass meetings and speeches. Chartism had a huge amount of support from the working classes, particularly in industrialized areas. Chartism was opposed by almost all those who had the vote, together with MPs and the ruling classes – all of whom were among the wealthier members of society. Though the movement declined in the 1850’s, it left its influence and through the Acts of 1867. 1882, 1918 and 1929, all adult citizens were enfranchised

Growth of Democracy in England First successful revolution to overthrow autocratic monarchy in England in 17th century resulted in establishment of supremacy of parliament. However parliament at that time was not truly democratic à right to vote was limited to very few people “Rotten Borough” abolished in 1832 Act, Right to vote was extended to some propertied section (included only 10% of population)Demands for making parliament democratic e.g. Chartist Movement Finally in 1929 – All adult citizens were enfranchised. Thus it took 200 years after parliament became supreme that it also became truly representative body.