The Edwardian era lasted from Queen Victoria‘s death in 1901 until Edward VII’s death in 1910. Some people consider the Edwardian era to last until the start of World War 1.
About Edward VII
Edward VII was born on 9 November 1841, and was Victoria’s oldest son. He was mainly interested in things that were happening abroad. Edward was known for having a “playboy” lifestyle – drinking lots of alcohol and regularly gambling.
A growing labour movement
In 1900, a new committee called the Labour Representation Committee (LRC) was formed in Parliament to support MPs that represented the working class. There was a general election in 1900 where two MPs with the LRC won their seats. In another election 6 years later, the LRC had 29 seats.
The LRC’s aim was to support and implement left-wing policies, which aim to make society fairer and more equal. Typical left-wing policies include the welfare state, a minimum wage and higher taxes on the wealthy.
Advancements in technology
Like the Victorian era, the Edwardian era was known for the great advancements in technology that were made. Electricity, which was invented in the Victorian era, was being rolled out to everyone. Telephones were also being rolled out, which allowed people in two different locations to communicate for the first time.