The Victorian Period in British Literature

The First Reform Bill

Mar 22, 1832

This bill extends the vote to men who own property. Marks the end of the Romantic Period and the beginning of the Victorian Period.

Queen Victoria takes the throne

Jun 20, 1837

On 20 June 1837, King William IV died at the age of 71, and 18 year old Victoria became Queen of the United Kingdom.

Oliver Twist, by Charles Dickens, published

Oct 19, 1838

Oliver Twist, subtitled The Parish Boy's Progress, is the second novel by English author Charles Dickens, published by Richard Bentley in 1838. An early example of the social novel, the book calls the public's attention to various contemporary evils, including child labour, the recruitment of children as criminals, and the presence of street children.

Alfred, Lord Tennyson named poet laurete of Great Britain

Apr 22, 1850

British rule over India begins

Feb 7, 1858

The system of governance was instituted in 1858, when the rule of the British East India Company was transferred to the Crown in the person of Queen Victoria (who in 1876 was proclaimed Empress of India), and lasted until 1947.

Darwin publishes On the Origin of Species

Apr 10, 1859

Darwin published his theory of evolution with compelling evidence in his 1859 book On the Origin of Species, overcoming scientific rejection of earlier concepts of transmutation of species.

Second Reform Act

May 10, 1867

The Second Reform Act gives vote to most male industrial workers, doubling the number of voters.

Queen Victoria dies

Apr 9, 1901

Queen Victoria's death marks the end of the Victorian Period.