The Changing Fortunes of Political Parties and Leaders (1830-1880)

Upon the downfall of Wellington’s Tory government, Earl Grey led the Whig party to power in 1830.
The Whigs were committed to implementing significant reforms including passing the Great Reform Act of 1832 that broadened the electorate and modernised the electoral system.
The Whigs then tackled social issues by passing a series of Poor Law Amendments in 1834 which aimed to reduce the cost of looking after the poor.
However, the Whigs faced opposition and controversy over their policies. The Poor Law in particular evoked widespread protest and unrest.
The Whig government also introduced policies to modernise Britain’s antiquated system of local government via the 1835 Municipal Corporations Act.

Following the controversy and unrest labelled against the Whig reforms, the Tories, now rebranded as the Conservative party under Sir Robert Peel, once again took power in 1841.
Peel launched a series of influential “Peelite” policies, including implementing the modern police force and making significant advances in the repeal of the Corn Laws.
However, Peel’s decision to repeal the Corn Laws led to disastrous division within the Conservative party, leading to the downfall of his government and the return of the Whigs to power.
Despite their divisions, the Conservative party gradually forged an alliance with sections of the middle classes and industrialists who appreciated their commitment to stability and business-friendly policies.

In 1865, the Whigs, Radicals, and Peelites coalesced into the Liberal Party, with William Ewart Gladstone emerging as the prominent leader.
Gladstone’s leadership was characterised by his commitment to free trade, individual liberty, and reduction in the expenses of the state, a principle known as Gladstonian liberalism.
Under Gladstone, the Liberal government passed key acts, including the 1867 Reform Act, further expanding the size of the electorate, and the 1870 Education Act, providing universal education to children under 10.
Gladstone’s first ministry (1868-1874) is famous for its intense focus on legislative reform, leading to a series of significant laws, including the 1872 Secret Ballot Act and the 1873 Judicature Act.
Despite his political successes, Gladstone faced challenges from the rising organised labour movement and the emerging influence of Irish nationalism.