In the early 19th century the changes in population made the representation in England’s Parliament very unrepresentative. ‘Rotten boroughs’ were areas where there was no longer much populations but the area was still represented by 2 MP’s (members of parliament). ‘Pocket boroughs’ were areas where large land owners got to appoint their own representatives. Some large populations like in London were VERY underrepresented. There was also no secret ballot and only about 5 percent of the population got to vote for MP’s. In 1832 the Reform Act was introduced and several reforms were implemented over some VERY heavy opposition. Women and most of the working classes were still not allowed to vote but it did begin the reform process. One of the fears that some government officials had was some form of revolution from the lower classes similar to that in France and which had resulted in the killing of royalty and aristocracy.

(The Great Courses – Victorian Britain)