The Protest Movements

Protest movements developed during the nineteenth century as the middle classes, and the working classes, became more educated. With this education came a desire to have more say in the way that their lives were run. This, inevitably, would lead to a conflict with the ruling, wealthy, classes. 

As the century wore on a number of different groups emerged, each had their own distinct complaint to make. Some complained peacefully, others used violence, sabotage and threats to try and force change. The level of success of each of these movements, either individually or collectively, is debatable. This unit examines the protests of a number of groups and allows you to develop an understanding of the reasons for, and the consequences of, each protest. 

Click on the links below to navigate this section, there are activities based on each page for you to try.

The Chartists        The Luddites        The Swing Riots        The Rebecca Riots        Other protest Movements. 

Activities       Lesson Plan