Whiggery and Reform, 1830-41: The Politics of Government

This book offers an interpretation of the parliamentary politics of the Age of Reform.

It explains the politics of the Reform Act and subsequent reforming legislation in the context of the Whig's desire to protect the interests of the landed aristocracy.

In contrast to the orthodox view of a Whig-radical alliance which confronted a new Conservative Party, the author describes the extent to which Peel and the Whigs attempted together to offer moderate reforms and to reduce the influence of each part's ultra supporters.

Neither party was able to survive the landed Anglican reaction which followed.

The Whigs fell to the same forces which were to bring Peel down in 1846.