Why Did the Liberal Party Decline in the 1920s

Liberalism

¬Reforms after 1870 & 1906 caused division in their supporters
¬Struggled to respond to social change (Mass Democracy)
¬WW1 greatly damaged the Liberal's integrity

Conservatives

As They:
¬Increasingly became the party for the middle class
¬Strong position following WW1

Labour

As They:
¬Looked to benefit from Mass Democracy with more working class people having the vote
¬An increase in trade union membership

The 4 Main Reasons Summarised

¬Long term support shrinking
¬Inability to respond to change
¬Rise of class board politics
¬Impact of WW1

What did Lloyd George want?

¬People's budget (Tax increases)
¬To improve welfare
¬Super tax for the super rich (Angered aristocrats)

How did the People's Budget get pushed through?

Due to the House of Lords having more power than the House of Commons Lloyd George took the issue to the people. The House of Lords rejected the budget which puts them in a position where they change their decision or get replaced/removed.

Why were the Unionists angry?

Liberals used Ireland to gain power and in return pushed through home rule for Ireland. This angered Unionists who wanted to remain and as war broke out and no agreement could be reached home rule was thrown out angering both sides.

What is Mass Democracy and why did it affect the Liberals?

Mass democracy meant politicians had to appeal to a far larger and more diverse group of people. As a result their politics had to be more diverse with different classes and genders needing and wanting different things. Representing and fulfilling the wants/needs of an entire society.

Why/How did WW1 have such a big effect on the Liberals?

Compromised Principles:
¬Conscription (1916)
¬Rationing (1918)
Split in Leadership:
¬Asquith Vs Lloyd George
¬Splitting support between them
Accountability
¬Maurice Debate (1918)
¬Shell Crisis (1915)
¬ + Aforementioned principles