Revolution Society facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Revolution Society
|
|
|---|---|
| Leader | Richard Price |
| Founded | 1788 |
| Dissolved | 1792 |
| Succeeded by | London Corresponding Society |
| Headquarters | London Tavern |
| Ideology | Radicalism Jacobinism |
| Political position | Left-wing |
| National affiliation | Radicals |
The London Revolution Society was a group formed in 1788. Its main goal was to celebrate 100 years since the Glorious Revolution of 1688. This earlier revolution brought William III to England. The Revolution Society was one of several groups in Britain during the 1790s that wanted big changes in society and government. These groups were often called "radical" societies.
Other similar Revolution Societies started in cities like Norwich. Norwich was a major center for these ideas, just like Sheffield.
Contents
What Was the Revolution Society?
The Revolution Society was a group of people who wanted to see changes in how Britain was governed. They believed in more freedom and rights for ordinary people. Many members were also part of another group called the Society for Constitutional Information (CSI). This group existed from 1780 to 1794.
Who Were Its Members?
The society included people from different religious backgrounds. Many were English Dissenters and Unitarians. These were Protestants who did not follow the official Church of England. Important members included Richard Price, Joseph Priestley, and Andrew Kippis.
In July 1789, a big event happened in France: the fall of the Bastille. This marked the start of the French Revolution. The London Revolution Society was very vocal about its support for this revolution.
Where Did They Meet?
In 1789, the society held its meetings at the London Tavern. They became more and more supportive of the French Revolution as it began. In November 1789, they sent a message to the French National Assembly. This message actually helped inspire the creation of the first French Jacobin Club. Jacobin Clubs were very influential political groups in France during the revolution.
Later Years and Decline
The Revolution Society continued its activities from 1790 to 1792. However, after 1792, other groups became more active. The Society for Constitutional Information (SCI) and the London Corresponding Society (LCS) took over the main role in pushing for change. The LCS was especially important and lasted the longest among these societies.
The London Revolution Society held its last meeting in 1792. Many of these societies stopped their work after 1792. This was because the government became very strict. Following some local trials in 1792 and 1793, the Prime Minister, William Pitt the Younger, started the 1794 Treason Trials. These trials were aimed at people who were seen as a threat to the government. Later, the Seditious Meetings Act 1795 was passed. This law made it harder for people to gather and discuss political changes.
See also
