THE GREAT REFORM AGITATION
Processions
Paintings © Ken Currie, Reproduced courtesy of The People's Palace, Glasgow
When you return to panel three consider why some men are shown at the top-left of the image in darkness, facing away from the activity. What is this part of the panel illustrating?
The left of the panel shows people marching on a Reform Bill procession, one of many peaceful demonstrations which sought to extend the vote. The 1832 Reform Act had ensured the vote for men with property valued at £10 per year or more. It was not until 1866 that the vote was extended to male industrial workers.
Various trades have been respresented in the procession. How many different types of worker can you identify?
What other symbols have been included?