Government and democracy: Gladstone and Disraeli; ministries, ideas and policies; increasing democracy; legislation
Gladstone and Disraeli dominated British politics from the 1860s to the 1880s. Each led governments that passed major laws and pushed democracy further than ever before.
Real World
Disraeli's 1867 Reform Act gave the vote to urban working-class men — groups like skilled factory workers in Birmingham — doubling the electorate almost overnight and forcing both parties to compete for an entirely new voter base.
Exam Focus
Distinguish Gladstone's reforms (efficiency/moral improvement) from Disraeli's (social reform/one-nation conservatism) — examiners reward this contrast in 'compare' questions.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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