3.4.10 The Victorian Age

Queen Victoria reigned from 1837 to 1901 — the longest reign of any British monarch up to that time. The Victorian era was a period of great change and progress. Britain became the most powerful country in the world, with the largest empire and the most advanced industry. The population grew rapidly, and cities expanded enormously.

The Victorian era saw many important reforms. The Factory Acts improved working conditions and limited child labour. The Education Act of 1870 made elementary education available to all children. The Reform Acts of 1832 and 1867 extended the right to vote to more men. Significant cultural achievements included the Great Exhibition of 1851, held in the Crystal Palace in London.