Protest, agitation and parliamentary reform in Britain, c1780–1928 - 3…

The idea

This topic examines the roles of Josephine Butler and Elizabeth Wolstenholme, the significance of the Ladies’ Association for the Repeal of the Contagious Diseases Act, and reasons for the Acts’ repeal. The Acts subjected women suspected of prostitution in garrison towns to compulsory examination. Butler’s moral outrage and Wolstenholme’s organisational skill mobilised middle-class women. The Ladies’ Association, founded in 1869, coordinated petitions and lobbying. Repeal in 1886 followed sustained pressure, shifting public opinion, the 1871 Royal Commission, and the 1883 suspension of the Acts.

What earns the marks

• Explains Butler’s role: moral crusade, writings, public speaking, and leadership in founding the Ladies’ National Association.
• Explains Wolstenholme’s role: legal expertise, drafting, and organisational work, including her position as honorary secretary.
• Assesses the significance of the Ladies’ Association for the Repeal of the Contagious Diseases Act: coordinated national campaign, petitions, and lobbying MPs.
• Analyses reasons for the Acts' repeal: changing public opinion, support from working-class petitions, parliamentary allies, the 1871 Royal Commission report, and the 1883 suspension.
• Evaluates the relative importance of individual leaders versus the wider movement and external factors.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Attributing the founding of the Ladies’ Association solely to Butler.

  Put it right: Acknowledge Wolstenholme’s co-founding role and her organisational contributions.

• Claiming the Acts were repealed immediately after the 1869 campaign.

  Put it right: Note that repeal occurred in 1886 after a prolonged campaign, the 1871 Royal Commission, and the 1883 suspension.

• Confusing the 1871 Royal Commission with the 1883 suspension.

  Put it right: The Royal Commission reported in 1871, highlighting flaws, while the 1883 parliamentary motion suspended compulsory examinations, paving the way for the 1886 repeal.

Exam tips

• Use specific examples of Butler’s and Wolstenholme’s actions to illustrate their roles.
• Link the Ladies’ Association’s methods to the broader campaign for repeal, showing cause and effect.