Catalogue Number
NMLH.1992.469
Object Name
Jug
Title
REFORM/ EARL GREY, FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY
Place
England & UK
People
Grey, Earl
Events
Great Reform Act
Description
This souvenir jug shows Earl Grey, elected Prime Minister in 1830; the other side reads 'REFORM'. It commemorates the 1832 Reform Act, extending the right to vote to approximately one man in seven. Grey is described as First Lord of the Treasury, a title still held by Prime Ministers. Reform Bills were tabled in 1831 but not passed. Riots broke out before the Bill was passed in June 1832. Most ordinary people did not benefit, although large towns obtained representation. New voters had to be male and live in property worth a certain value. The working classes were largely ignored and many turned to Chartism.
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