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Formation and Rise The early years of Chartism saw the movement employing various tools to establish its presence and advocate for workers' rights. Illustrations from this period showcase the beginnings of organized protests, with working-class individuals coming together under the banner of the London Working Men's Association (LWMA). Visuals also include images of the People's Charter, a seminal document outlining six demands such as universal suffrage and secret ballots.
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Contemporary Support In the early years, newspapers carried articles supportive of Chartist goals. The media played a crucial role in disseminating the movement's ideals, fostering a sense of unity among the working class. Positive coverage focused on the potential for social change and the pursuit of democratic rights.
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Riots and Negative Portrayals As protests escalated, media coverage shifted to the negative, emphasizing the disruptive nature of riots and strikes. Newspapers portrayed Chartists as agitators, contributing to a growing societal divide. Negative portrayals influenced public opinion, and the movement faced increased scrutiny and resistance.
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Peak and Struggle As Chartism gained momentum, the movement shifted its tactics to more direct actions. This phase is characterized by powerful pictures capturing protests and strikes, such as the Plug Plot Riots of 1842. Newspaper clippings from this period highlight the widespread unrest and the impact of these protests on various industries. The movement, at its zenith during this time, faced both positive and negative media portrayals, reflecting the polarized nature of public opinion.
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Decline and Dissolution Visuals from the later years of Chartism depict the challenges faced by the movement, including failed uprisings like the Newport Rising of 1839. Cartoons emerged as a form of expression, depicting Chartist leaders and the struggles they encountered. This period reflects a decline in mass support, internal divisions, and a symbolic end with the rejection of the final Chartist petition in 1858.
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Decline and Demise In the final years, editorials discussed the decline and demise of Chartism. Media outlets analyzed internal divisions, failed uprisings, and the movement's inability to sustain its early momentum. The once-prominent coverage faded, marking the end of a significant chapter in the history of workers' rights activism.
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