Why did reformers in the 1800s seek to make Parlament more Representative?

Question

i am trying to understand hoy britain becomes more democratic. Can you help.

Answer 1

Great Britain in the 18th century was an oligarchy - ruled by a small group of people in other words. Many MPs were elected by tiny electorates, or in the case of the 'rotten boroughs' by no electorate at all as the population had all moved away, but the area still retained the right to return an MP to Westminster. The one such that is always quoted is Old Sarum, the site originally of Salisbury until the city and cathedral moved to its present site. The new industrial cities - Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool had little or no representation.. People began to realise that this was wrong so a movement for reform began. It was resisted for some while but eventually the Great Reform Act of 1832 was passed which did away with many of the abuses. It slightly extended the franchise, but not to the extent we know today. The franchise for men was extended by further reform acts during the 19th century but, of course, women didn't get the vote until well into the 20th century,