The development of “modern” political parties is a leading theme of nineteenth century political history. In the United States, in England, and on the Continent a set of broadly similar events radically transformed the way in which politics was conducted. Political parties were at the center of these developments. The electoral organization of parties became more and more elaborate with each successive extension of the suffrage; the use of party labels by candidates became increasingly common; and the allegiance of voters to political parties rather than to individuals became more and more widespread.

This book describes and attempts to explain the fascinating and, in cumulation, revolutionary changes that took place in the English party system during the nineteenth century. Substantively, the book focuses on two key institutional changes – the development of the Cabinet's legislative powers (the efficient secret) and the expansion of the electorate – and traces their effects on the dramatic increase in party voting both in Parliament (Part II) and in the electorate (Part III). Because these substantive interests focus on the behavior of large aggregates of people, I have, whenever possible and appropriate, sought statistical evidence to support my arguments. This has entailed, among other things, the extensive and systematic use of poll books and newspapers in order to gather detailed electoral returns, the use of computerized lists of divisions in the House of Commons, and the use of a census of local Conservative party associations conducted in 1874.