Change and Continuity before the First World War

Political Changes

The emergence of mass political parties, Labour and the Conservatives, with distinctive identities.
The shift towards a mass democracy was exhibited through the Second Reform Act (1867) and Third Reform Act (1884), extending the franchise to the majority of adult males.
The 1888 Local Government Act allowed Counties to have directly elected councils.
The 1907 Education (Administrative Provisions) Act and 1902 Education Act shifted control of education to local authorities.
The beginnings of the welfare state, such as old age pensions (1908) and National Insurance Act (1911).

Economic and Social Changes

Considerable economic changes saw a move from an economy based on agriculture and heavy industry to one increasingly dependent on trade and services.
Widespread poverty and inequality remained, however, the introduction of rudimentary welfare benefited the poorest.
The expanded franchise brought growing political consciousness to the working and middle classes.
Rapid urbanisation and industrialisation continued, even as agriculture began a long-term decline.
Significant advancements in technology and infrastructure, especially in transportation, communication and manufacturing.
Women’s rights were evolving gradually; the 1882 Married Women’s Property Act allowed married women to keep their own earnings.

Continuity

Despite democratic reforms, there remained substantial segments of the population disenfranchised, particularly women and those in lower income brackets.
Full welfare provision for all did not yet exist, social reform was limited and patchy.
Extreme poverty and social problems associated with urbanisation, such as slum housing and disease, were still rife.
British society remained fundamentally divided by class, despite the emergence of a more influential middle class.
The Education Acts did not yet promise equality of opportunity nor comprehensive education for all.
The House of Lords retained significant power, despite the Parliament Act of 1911 limiting its veto power.

Cultural Changes and Continuity

A growth in leisure activities and the mass media, such as cinema and newspapers, influenced public opinion and culture.
Despite cultural changes, British society’s devotion to the monarchy and empire remained strong.
The role of religion in society was starting to diminish but still played a significant role.
The Victorian model of the family, with its emphasis on male authority and feminine domesticity, remained strong.
Public School Act 1868 advanced education, but children from poorer families often still lacked access to quality education.