Victorian era
The period of Queen Victoria’s reign, from 1837 to 1901, when Britain underwent major social, political, cultural, and industrial change.
Industrial Revolution: The transition to mechanized production and industrial economies that began in Britain in the eighteenth century. Its continuing expansion transformed Victorian work, cities, transport, and wealth.
Reform Act 1832: A British law that broadened parliamentary representation and extended the vote to more property-owning men. It preceded Victoria’s accession and shaped the political system inherited by her governments.
Queen Victoria: Queen of the United Kingdom from 1837 to 1901 and empress of India from 1876. Her long reign defines the era’s dates and supplied its name.
Great Famine of Ireland: A catastrophic famine in Ireland from 1845 to 1852, caused by potato crop failure and intensified by political and economic conditions. The famine tested Victorian policy and intensified conflict over British rule in Ireland.
Georgian era: The period of British history associated with the reigns of the four Hanoverian kings named George, from 1714 to 1830. It precedes Victoria’s reign and provides a comparison for Britain’s earlier political and social order.
British Empire: A global empire governed or controlled by Britain through territories, colonies, and other dependencies. Imperial expansion and rule shaped Victorian politics, commerce, migration, and public debate.
Reform Act 1867: A British law that extended the vote to many urban working-class men. It expanded the electorate amid Victorian political competition and urban growth.
Prince Albert: The husband and consort of Queen Victoria, who promoted education, science, and the arts. His public projects, especially the Great Exhibition, helped shape Victorian cultural identity.
Indian Rebellion of 1857: A widespread uprising against East India Company rule in India that began in 1857. Its aftermath transferred rule in India from the company to the British Crown.
Edwardian era: The period of British history associated with Edward VII’s reign, from 1901 to 1910. It followed the Victorian era and brought different social styles and political tensions.