Chapter 23 Section 1: Democratic Reform in Britain

William Gladstone

Led the Whigs, which evolved into the Liberal Party.

Queen Victoria

The greatest symbol in British life from 1837 to 1901. Her reign was the longest in British history and she set the tone for what is now called the Victorian age.

Parliamentary Democracy

A form of government in which the executive leaders (usually a prime minister and cabinet) are chosen by and responsible to the legislature (parliament), are also members of it.

Rotten Borough

A rural town in England that sent members to Parliament despite having few or no voters.

Electorate

Body of people allowed to vote.

Benjamin Disraeli

Forged the Tories into the modern Conservative Party.

Secret Ballot

Voters cast without announcing them publicly.