Why was there a problem with catering for the poor? In the 20th century, widespread provisions were finally made for poor relief, protecting those who were unwell, elderly and unemployed. Early developments in providing for the poor were based on those who were considered ‘deserving’ and ‘undeserving’, ideas which are still prevalent in modern society. … Read more
In this series of blog posts we are showcasing the work from GCSE and A-Level students who have worked with the Citizens Project to research and write blog posts on key moments of protest and reform throughout British history. In this blog post Calum Laurie, a pupil at Cambourne Village College tells us about the 1832 Great … Read more
In this series of blog posts we are showcasing the work from GCSE and A-Level students who have worked with the Citizens Project to research and write blog posts on key moments of protest and reform throughout British history. In this blog post Iria Rodriguez, a pupil at Cambourne Village College, looks at the main political parties and … Read more
We say our sovereign lord may understand that his false council has lost his law, his merchandise is lost, his common people is destroyed, the sea is lost, France is lost, the king himself is so set that he may not pay for his meat nor drink, and he owes more than ever any King … Read more
Constance Gore-Booth (1868-1927), a leading figure in the Irish Revolution and a prominent campaigner for women’s suffrage, was the first woman elected to Westminster. The eldest of five children, Constance came from a privileged, upper-class Irish Protestant family. Prior to embarking on her political career, Constance studied art in London and Paris. In Paris, she … Read more
The Provisions of Oxford are often seen as the starting point of the modern parliament in Britain. But what were they and why were they so important? Like his father before him, King John, Henry III had a difficult relationship with his barons. The First and Second Barons’ War between the kings and their barons … Read more
The Charter of the Forest is among the first statutes in environmental law of any nation. Crafted to reform patently unjust governance of natural resources in thirteenth century England, the Charter of the forest became a framework through which to reconcile competing environmental claims, then and into the future.[1] On 6th November 1217 the Charter … Read more
Since time immemorial, or since as early as 1189 at least, Bachelor’s Acre, a parcel of land in the centre Windsor, was used by the inhabitants of the town for the practice of archery and other pastimes. This usage was confirmed in 1651 when reference was made to ‘where Butts were usually set up’ (Butts … Read more
