Conservatives in the interwar periods

When did the rebranding of the Conservatives begin?

In the 1870s

What was plural voting? (3)

A system which allowed people to vote more than once in an electorate if they had more than 1 location of residency

This applied to mainly university students and rich business men

This benefited the Conservatives

Who did Conservatives appeal to? (2)

Working-class voters

Many newly enfranchised women

Conservative rebrand (2)

It moved away from the party of wealth and privilege to “one nation Tories”

They presented themselves as party who could rule for all, focusing on empire, patriotism and national defence

How did Stanley Baldwin help the Conservatives rebrand? (3)

He presented himself as a straight-talking man of the people

This helped to win over working-classes

His “safety first” image suggested economic competence and stability

How did Baldwins reputation help the Conservatives? (4)

In his steel factories, he promoted good working relationships between employers and workers

He gained a good reputation for economic confidence

These factors helped garner support from traditional voters but also middle class, wealthy liberals

His handling of the 1926 General strike strengthened Conservative authority - appeared to be the party of order

How were the conservatives organised politcally? (2)

Developed a true national party structure with organised local branches and a network of professional agents

Conservative Research Department - Developed internal organisation, drafted speeches and prepared party documents eg. election manifestos

Conservative dominace: Impact (2)

Showed that Labour’s rise didn’t immediately produce a left-wing government

Many voters still preferred stability and moderation