HSY2601
FINAL PORTFOLIO
DUE DATE: 30 APRIL 2026
, HSY2601 FINAL PORTFOLIO 2026
DUE 30 APRIL 2026
Question: Critically discuss how the gradual growth of parliamentary power in
Britain during the 19th century reflected the principles of liberal democracy. In
your response, consider the influence of the French Revolution’s legacy on
British political developments and public discourse.
ESSAY
The nineteenth century was a very important time in British political history. During this
period, Parliament slowly gained more power and changed the relationship between the
government and the people. This reflected important ideas of liberal democracy, such
as individual freedom, representative government, the rule of law, and limiting the power
of the state. However, many privileges still remained for the rich and the aristocracy.
This period cannot be fully understood without the influence of the French Revolution of
1789. It inspired people with ideas of liberty and equality, but it also created fear
because of violence, terror, and disorder. The Reform Acts of 1832, 1867, and 1884,
together with the growth of responsible party government and parliamentary
sovereignty, helped Britain move closer to liberal democracy. At the same time, the
impact of the French Revolution made Britain choose a careful, slow, and conservative
path of political change.
FINAL PORTFOLIO
DUE DATE: 30 APRIL 2026
, HSY2601 FINAL PORTFOLIO 2026
DUE 30 APRIL 2026
Question: Critically discuss how the gradual growth of parliamentary power in
Britain during the 19th century reflected the principles of liberal democracy. In
your response, consider the influence of the French Revolution’s legacy on
British political developments and public discourse.
ESSAY
The nineteenth century was a very important time in British political history. During this
period, Parliament slowly gained more power and changed the relationship between the
government and the people. This reflected important ideas of liberal democracy, such
as individual freedom, representative government, the rule of law, and limiting the power
of the state. However, many privileges still remained for the rich and the aristocracy.
This period cannot be fully understood without the influence of the French Revolution of
1789. It inspired people with ideas of liberty and equality, but it also created fear
because of violence, terror, and disorder. The Reform Acts of 1832, 1867, and 1884,
together with the growth of responsible party government and parliamentary
sovereignty, helped Britain move closer to liberal democracy. At the same time, the
impact of the French Revolution made Britain choose a careful, slow, and conservative
path of political change.
