Government and a changing society, 1812–1832 key terms

Repression

The act of subduing or restraining dissent or opposition, often through force or legal measures.

Trade Union

An organized association of workers formed to protect and further their rights and interests.

Catholic Relief Act

Legislation passed in 1829 that allowed Catholics to sit in Parliament and hold public office.

Reform Act

Legislation aimed at reforming the electoral system, with significant changes occurring in 1832.

Enclosure Movement

The process of consolidating small landholdings into larger farms, which displaced many rural workers and changed agricultural practices.

Free Trade

An economic policy that allows goods and services to be traded across borders with minimal government intervention, promoting competition and lowering prices.

Urbanisation

The process by which cities grow as populations move from rural to urban areas, often associated with industrialisation.

Chartism

A working-class movement in the 1830s and 1840s that aimed for political reforms including universal male suffrage and better working conditions.

Radical Agitation

Political movements aimed at achieving significant social and political change, often through protests and demands for reform.

Corn Laws

A series of laws that imposed tariffs on imported grain, protecting domestic agriculture but leading to higher food prices and discontent among the working class.

Franchise

The right to vote in political elections.

Parliamentary Reform

Changes made to the electoral system to improve representation and voting rights.