Political Developments (1886-1905)

This set of flashcards covers key themes, individuals, and events from the lecture on political developments in Britain from 1886 to 1905, focusing on the Conservative Party's dominance, Liberal Party divisions, and the rise of socialist movements.

What was the impact of the 1886 Home Rule Bill on the political landscape?

It led to a general election where Conservatives won a clear majority, supported by Liberal Unionists, and remained in office until 1905.

Who won the general election after the defeat of Gladstone's Home Rule Bill?

The Conservatives, under Salisbury, won a clear majority of seats (314) with support from Liberal Unionists.

What characterized the Conservative dominance from 1886 to 1905?

Divisions within the Liberal Party, middle-class support for Conservatives, and promotion of imperialism.

What were the reasons for the Conservative dominance during this period?

Divisions in the Liberal Party, increasing middle-class support, imperialism, and limited social reforms.

How did the Boer War influence public support for the Conservatives?

The Boer War generated popular enthusiasm, leading to significant Conservative victories in elections like the 1900 'Khaki Election'.

What was the 'Khaki Election' of October 1900?

An election called by the Conservatives to capitalize on public support during the Boer War.

Describe the social reforms introduced by Salisbury's government.

Reforms included housing improvements such as running water in all new houses and legislation to ban child labor for under 11-year-olds.

What was the main criticism of A.J. Balfour's leadership after Salisbury?

Balfour's lack of social reform and indecisiveness regarding tariff reform made the Conservatives unpopular.

What significant event led to the decline of Conservative dominance in 1906?

The resignation of A.J. Balfour and the subsequent rise of the Liberal Party.

What issue caused significant divisions within the Liberal Party?

Home Rule for Ireland, which created factions like the Liberal Unionists.

Who were the Liberal Unionists?

A faction that split from the Liberal Party to support the Conservatives on the Home Rule issue.

What was the stance of Joseph Chamberlain regarding social reform?

Chamberlain advocated for social reform but favored minimal state intervention.

What was the Newcastle Programme of 1892?

A platform that represented heavy social reform and intervention of the Liberal Party.

What did the Labour Representation Committee (LRC) represent?

The LRC represented working-class interests, emerging from trade unions and socialist groups.

What role did the Fabians have in socialist reform?

The Fabians aimed to influence the government for gradual socialism, promoting reform through intellectual advocacy.

Who was Keir Hardie?

A prominent Labour leader who formed the Independent Labour Party in 1893.

What was the significance of the 1884 Reform Act?

It extended the vote to unskilled workers, increasing the political status of the working class.

What was the purpose of the Independent Labour Party (ILP)?

To represent working-class interests and not be a subordinate group to the Liberals.

What effect did high poverty levels have on political movements?

High poverty led to increased political activism among socialists and the formation of the ILP.

Describe the Taff Vale judgment of 1901.

It held unions liable for damages caused during strikes, highlighting the need for a political party to protect workers' interests.

What did the Lib-Lab Pact of 1903 entail?

An agreement where the Labour Representation Committee agreed not to contest seats against Liberals in exchange for Liberal cooperation.

How did the Liberal Party's approach to imperialism contribute to its divisions?

Differences in views on imperialism caused splits, with some supporting the Empire and others opposing it.

What was the political atmosphere regarding social reform during the 1890s?

The atmosphere was characterized by conflicts between laissez-faire policies and demands for social reforms.

What was the significance of 'One Nation Conservatism' in the context of Conservative social reforms?

It justified limited reforms to prevent class conflict without significant state intervention.

Who were the key figures promoting socialist ideas in the late 19th century?

Sidney and Beatrice Webb were key figures who helped form the Fabian Society.

What challenges did the ILP face in the 1895 general election?

The ILP was too small and underfunded, failing to win any seats despite its platform.

What characterized the leadership style of A.J. Balfour?

He was viewed as a wealthy, aristocratic leader with little in common with ordinary people.

What reforms did Salisbury implement to improve housing conditions?

Legislation requiring running water and a lavatory in all new houses.

What did socialists argue during the late 19th century?

They argued that workers deserved better living and working conditions and sought gradual reform.

What were the primary divisions within the Liberal Party during this period?

Divisions existed between traditional Liberals and those pushing for radical reforms, especially concerning Home Rule.

What was the impact of middle-class moves towards Conservatism?

The Conservatives capitalized on middle-class fears of change, gaining support during elections.

What did Labour's success in the 1906 election signify?

It indicated a legitimate acceptance of Labour as a political force after the Lib-Lab Pact.

How did the Boer War affect British politics?

It garnered major support for the Conservatives due to its militaristic success and imperial sentiment.

What was the difference in approach to social issues between liberals and conservatives during this period?

Liberals focused on Home Rule and division, while Conservatives initiated more structural social reforms.

What did the term 'Bloody Balfour' imply about A.J. Balfour's reputation?

It suggested he was unapproachable and disconnected from the working class.

What did employers think of Labour's growing influence?

Employers were concerned and often resisted the shift towards supporting workers through political representation.

What was one key consequence of the rise of mass unions?

They forced a shift in political strategies and led to the formation of the LRC for better working-class representation.

How did the political landscape shift with the emergence of the ILP?

The ILP represented a significant push for working class rights outside of traditional Liberal representation.

What challenges did socialists face in communicating their messages?

They often faced suspicion from the craft unions and had issues with funding and organization.

Why did middle-class voters gradually shift towards the Conservatives?

They viewed the Conservatives as a party resistant to excessive change and supportive of imperialism.

What reforms did Randolph Churchill advocate for?

He advocated for housing and education reforms while maintaining minimal state intervention.

What was the impact of Joseph Chamberlain's radical proposals?

His radical proposals highlighted a disconnect between traditional Liberalism and the needs of the working class.

What was the public sentiment towards Hayes' social reforms during this period?

Public sentiment towards social reform was polarized due to the varying opinions within the Liberal Party.

What was the significance of the irony of Gladstone's focus on Home Rule?

His obsession with Home Rule led to neglect of pressing social reforms that affected the electorate.