A History of Parliamentary Elections and Electioneering in the Old Days / Showing the State of Political Parties and Party Warfare at the Hustings and in the House of Commons from the Stuarts to Queen Victoria

The work surveys the evolution of parliamentary elections and electioneering from early modern times through the nineteenth century, examining franchise qualifications, voting practices, and the many corrupting influences—bribery, patronage, intimidation, and pocket boroughs—that shaped representation. It describes the rituals and rough-and-tumble customs of canvassing, polling, chairing, and election feasting, and reconstructs notable contests using contemporary ballads, broadsides, political squibs, and illustrative caricatures. Alongside legal and procedural changes, the narrative highlights popular responses, party manoeuvres, and reforming impulses that gradually altered electoral culture, while accompanying illustrations and satirical prints illuminate popular perceptions and partisan warfare at the hustings and in the Commons.