Economic developments: continuing industrialisation; agricultural change; economic policies and free trade
Between 1812 and 1832, Britain's factories kept expanding, farming changed dramatically, and governments began shifting towards free trade — the idea that removing taxes on imports and exports grows the economy.
Real World
William Huskisson's reduction of import duties on manufactured goods in 1824 directly increased British textile exports, demonstrating how free trade policy translated into commercial advantage for factory owners.
Exam Focus
Link economic policy to political motivation — free trade reforms benefited the growing industrial middle class, which is key context for understanding pressure for parliamentary reform.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
How well did you know this?