The British political system in 1783: government and representation; national and local democracy; Whigs and Tories
In 1783, Britain had a parliament and two main political parties. But only a tiny fraction of men could vote, and the system heavily favoured the wealthy and powerful.
Real World
Old Sarum in 1783 had fewer than a dozen voters yet sent two MPs to Parliament, while the booming industrial city of Manchester — already home to tens of thousands — had no MP at all, illustrating how the unreformed system rewarded geography over population.
Exam Focus
Use precise examples of rotten boroughs and pocket boroughs to support arguments about representation; general statements lose marks.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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