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Explain the significance of the Great Reform Act. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 2
Explain the significance of the Great Reform Act.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain the significance of the Great Reform Act. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
The Great Reform Act: Background and Importance
Answer
The Great Reform Act of 1832 is significant as it marked the beginning of a new era in British politics. It aimed to address widespread dissatisfaction with the electoral system, which was heavily criticized for being outdated and unrepresentative. Prior to the Act, many cities with growing populations were underrepresented in Parliament, while ‘rotten boroughs’ enjoyed disproportionate influence. This Act aimed to rectify those imbalances by redistributing seats in the House of Commons to reflect population shifts.
Step 2
Expansion of the Electorate
Answer
Another critical aspect of the Act was the expansion of the electoral franchise. Although it did not grant universal suffrage, it increased the number of eligible voters from approximately 435,000 to 652,000. This was significant because it included many middle-class individuals who had previously been excluded from the voting process, setting the stage for further reforms and the gradual inclusion of more social classes in the political process.
Step 3
Long-term Political Changes
Answer
The long-term significance of the Great Reform Act cannot be understated. It was a catalyst for further reforms, including the Reform Acts of 1867 and 1884, which continued to expand the franchise and improve electoral representation. The Act initiated a shift in power dynamics within the political landscape, demonstrating that popular pressure could lead to changes in governance, and setting a precedent for future democratic reforms in the UK.
Step 4
Social Commentary and the Reform Movement
Answer
Furthermore, the Act's impact extended beyond mere political representation; it was also a reflection of changing social attitudes. The growing influence of the industrial middle class was recognized and legitimized through political reforms, thereby acknowledging their role in a rapidly changing society. This shift indicated an evolving understanding of governance that included the voices of a broader spectrum of society.