The Reform Act

The Reform Act of 1832 was a significant piece of legislation in Britain that aimed to address issues in the electoral system. It expanded the electorate by lowering property requirements, allowing more men, particularly from the middle class, to vote. The Act also reformed parliamentary representation by redistributing seats, ensuring that growing industrial cities gained representation while reducing the influence of outdated rural areas. Overall, the Act marked the beginning of a shift towards a more democratic system, responding to calls for political reform and greater public participation in governance.