Catalogue Number
NMLH.2005.49.43
Object Name
Print
Title
'Support Mr Gladstone By Voting For Brindley. Justice For Ireland. Thrice Is He Arm'd That Hath His Quarrel Just.'
Place
Ireland, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, UK
People
Liberal Party, Conservative Party, William Gladstone, JB Brindley
Events
Elections, 1886 General Election, Irish Home Rule Campaign
Date
1886
Creator(s)
Description
William Gladstone in Roman style armour holds 'Home Rule' as a sword in his left hand. He protects Ireland, who is portrayed as a shackled woman, from other men dressed as Roman soldiers, portraying Conservative politicians. There is an election message on the reverse side to the electors of Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Home Rule for Ireland was an important political issue in the UK in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Home Rule would have meant that colonised Ireland could have effectively self governed, with an elected parliament rather than sending a disproportionately small number of MPs to represent the country at Westminster. William Gladstone (29 December 1809 â 19 May 1898), the Liberal Party Prime Minister, was seen as a champion of Home Rule, which was opposed by the Conservative Party who felt that colonies should be governed from London. Candidates who supported Home Rule were popular with Irish migrants living in England's towns and cities.
Gladstone's Liberal Party won the 1886 election. However, despite emphasising Gladstoneâs leadership, JB Brindley, the Newcastle-under-Lyme candidate for the Liberals was defeated.
*On Display*
