Rise of Labour

The emergence of the Labour Party, dedicated to improving working conditions and representing the interests of the poor, put pressure on the Liberals to act.

Example: By 1900, the Labour Party had been founded to promote socialist policies and had won some seats in by-elections.

The Liberals were concerned that Labour could take votes away from them unless they took action to improve the conditions of the working class.

Highlight: The 1905 Russian Revolution also influenced the Liberals, as they feared similar unrest in Britain if reforms were not implemented.

While the rise of Labour was a factor, it was not as crucial as the work of Booth and Rowntree in driving reform. In the 1906 election, the Liberals had a clear majority of 397 seats, while Labour only had 29, indicating limited political pressure from Labour at that time.

Quote: "There was little political pressure put on government from threat of Labour."

This comprehensive analysis of the factors behind the Liberal reforms 1906 to 1914 demonstrates the complex interplay of social research, political ideology, and economic concerns that shaped this pivotal period in British history.

Why Liberals Introduced Reforms: Essay Plan

The Liberal reforms impact on poverty 1900s was substantial, marking a shift from laissez-faire attitudes to active government intervention. By 1914, these reforms had significantly helped the unemployed, sick, and elderly.

Booth and Rowntree's Influence

Charles Booth and Seebohm Rowntree conducted influential studies on poverty in London and York, respectively. Their research was crucial in shaping public opinion and government policy.

Highlight: Booth's study found that 35% of London's population lived in poverty, shocking the public and policymakers.

Rowntree's 1901 book "Poverty: A Study of Town Life" corroborated Booth's findings and introduced concepts like the poverty line and secondary poverty.

Definition: Secondary poverty referred to situations where income was theoretically sufficient, but poor money management led to poverty.

These studies were widely reported in the press and helped convince the Liberals that poverty was a national issue requiring government action.

Quote: "Booth and Rowntree were the most important factor for the liberal reforms being passed."