Riots Act (1886)

The Riot Act of 1886 was a law enacted in the British Empire to control civil disturbances. It allowed authorities to suppress large gatherings if they appeared likely to become violent. Once read aloud publicly, the law required crowd dispersal within a specific time, or force could be used against them. The act aimed to prevent riots and maintain public order by providing clear legal procedures for dealing with potential unrest. It reflected the government's approach to managing civil disorder during that period, emphasizing preventive action and authority to restore peace quickly.