Social Reforms 1870-1900

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In between the years of 1870-1900, Great Britain became more involved in continental Europe’s affairs rapidly expanding in its foreign policy such as the arms race against Germany and alliance with France, and domestic issues close at home with social reforms. One of the world’s most powerful empires saw a period of reform that gradually increased political democracy and improved economic and social conditions for all. Four types of reforms that were made included parliamentary reforms, workers’ rights, education, and social welfare.
William Gladstone was a liberal prime minister of Great Britain being a dominant political figure. In 1859, he joined the Liberals, becoming their leader in 1867 and the following year, Prime Minister (BBC, n.d.). …show more content…

They were made legal in 1871 and given the write to strike. In 1875, they were permitted to peacefully picket their place of work when on strike, known as the Conspiracy and Protection of Property Act (Bloy, 2014). The Industrial Revolution also created serious health problems and a number of measures were taken to alleviate the conditions of workers. The Public Health Act of 1872, set up Health Authorities throughout England. But due to lack of money the act was increased in 1875. The act stated that local councils must improve water supply and sewage systems, must appoint inspectors, improve standards of housing, fine for polluted rivers, improve working practice such as shorter hours, and provide food standards and checks on ingredients (Public Health Acts, 2015).
Education in England was greatly improved by laws that made basic education available to all children. The 1870 Education Act set up school districts. The Act allowed voluntary schools to remain unchanged, but established a system of school boards to build and manage schools in areas where they were needed (The 1870 Education Act, n.d.). By 1874, over 5,000 new schools had been founded. In 1880, education became compulsory up to age 10 and raised to age 12 in 1899 (Bloy,

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