| Abstrakt: |
The Chartist movement may be said to have begun on May 8, 1838, the date on which the People’s Charter was published, thus formalizing Chartism. Written by William Lovett and Francis Place, the charter demanded six political reforms: manhood suffrage, the secret ballot, pay for members of Parliament, abolition of property qualifications for members of Parliament, equal electoral districts, and annual elections. These elements would enfranchise working men and attempt to make Parliament more equitable in its composition and more accountable to the people’s interests. Mass meetings were held to spread the idea of the People’s Charter and to obtain signatures on a huge petition to present to Parliament. |
