'The success of the Conservatives in the period 1886-1905 was the result of the Liberals' failures.' Assess the validity of this view.

The failures of the Liberal Party within the period 1886-1905 were key to the success of the Conservatives. The culmination of Gladstone's dramatic conversion to Home Rule (which disastrously split the party), the conflicting ideology of New Liberalism and 'Gladstonian' Liberalism, as well as the significant divisions created by the Boer War, all allowed for the Conservative party to re-emerge as the dominant force in British politics, holding power for seventeen of the twenty years. Although Lord Salisbury's pragmatic leadership, efficient party organisation and an unprecedented age of jingoism were important contributing factors, the failures of the Liberals were fundamental for the ascendancy of the Conservatives.

MW
Answered by Molly W. History tutor

6016 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

With reference to source A and source B interpret the extent to which (quote from either source) can be said to (relate to module topic). (20)


How can I begin to structure my essay to an A level standard?


How should I approach revision?


I know a lot of the content for my history exam but my marks are consistently poor. What do I need to do to improve?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning