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To what extent was Britain a fully democratic country by 1914? - Scottish Highers History - Question 13 - 2023
Question 13
To what extent was Britain a fully democratic country by 1914?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent was Britain a fully democratic country by 1914? - Scottish Highers History - Question 13 - 2023
Step 1
Evaluate the extent of suffrage
Answer
By 1914, significant advancements had been made in the expansion of suffrage in Britain. The Representation of the People Act 1918 granted voting rights to all men over 21 and women over 30. However, before this, only a limited number of men had the right to vote, and women, regardless of their social status, were largely excluded. Therefore, while strides were made towards democracy, a large portion of the population remained disenfranchised.
Step 2
Examine the role of political parties and elections
Answer
Political parties in Britain had developed by 1914, with the Liberal Party and the Conservative Party being the most prominent. Elections were held, and the competition between these parties allowed for a degree of political engagement. However, issues like gerrymandering and the influence of wealthy elites undermined the fairness and democratic nature of these elections, limiting true representation.
Step 3
Assess the influence of social movements
Answer
Social movements played a vital role in pushing for democratic reforms. The suffragette movement, for instance, highlighted the struggle for women's voting rights. This activism brought attention to the inadequacies in the democratic process, illustrating that while progress was made, many individuals' voices were still not recognized. The presence of these movements indicates a society striving for greater democracy, yet not fully achieving it by 1914.
Step 4
Conclusion on the overall democratic status
Answer
In conclusion, while Britain had made significant steps toward becoming a democratic nation by 1914, it cannot be classified as fully democratic. The limitations on voting rights, electoral fairness, and the ongoing struggle for social equality pointed to a system that was still evolving. To assert that Britain was democratic by 1914 would overlook these critical shortcomings.