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The Last Pantomime of the Season, 1859
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The Last Pantomime of the Season, 1859
The Last Pantomime of the Season, 1859. Disraeli introduced his Reform Bill to the House early in 1859. However, because it was seen as a blatant attempt to conjure up extra Conservative votes, and was too obviously drafted to favour Conservative party interest, opposition groups combined to defeat the Bill in March 1859. This cartoon shows John Bright as Harlequin and Lord Russell on the floor tripping the unwary Disraeli as he comes through the door with the weighty Reform Bill on his shoulder. Pardoxically, both Bright and Russell were advocates of parliamentary reform, but opposed the bias of this particular Bill. This defeat brought Lord Derbys government to the end of its time in office. To the right of the picture is the next premier, Lord Palmerston. From Punch, or the London Charivari, March 19, 1859
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Media ID 14829251
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1st Earl Russell Of Kingston Russell Commedia Dellarte Fallen Falling Famous People Fancy Dress Harlequin Henry John Temple Heritage Image Partnership John Russell Lord Lord John Lord John Russell Lord Palmerston Lord Russell Mask Palmerston Pantomime Reform Reform Bill Russell Tripping
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The Last Pantomime of the Season, 1859
EDITORS COMMENTS
captures a pivotal moment in British political history. Benjamin Disraeli, the Conservative Prime Minister at the time, introduced his Reform Bill to the House of Commons with hopes of gaining more support for his party. However, this move was met with opposition from various groups who saw it as a transparent attempt to secure Conservative votes. In this satirical cartoon by an unknown creator from Punch magazine, we see John Bright portraying Harlequin and Lord Russell tripping up Disraeli as he enters the stage carrying the weighty Reform Bill on his shoulder. Both Bright and Russell were advocates of parliamentary reform but disagreed with the biased nature of this particular bill. The defeat of Disraeli's bill marked a turning point in Lord Derby's government, leading to its downfall. To add irony to the situation, Lord Palmerston is depicted on the right side of the picture as he awaits his turn as Britain's next premier. This engraving not only showcases political drama but also highlights how art can be used to comment on current events. It serves as a reminder that even in serious matters such as politics, humor and satire have their place in shaping public opinion and holding those in power accountable.
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