Government Action and the 1848 Public Health Act Flashcards

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Before 1848, what did most politicians believe about the government’s role in public health?

They believed in laissez-faire, meaning the government should not interfere and health was a private or local problem.

Who was Edwin Chadwick and why was he important for public health reform?

Edwin Chadwick was a civil servant who studied living conditions and argued that bad sanitation caused disease, helping to push for the 1848 Public Health Act.

What was the main message of Edwin Chadwick’s 1842 report?

He showed that dirty, overcrowded streets and houses led to disease and that improving sanitation would save lives and money.

What problem in 1848 helped convince the government to pass a Public Health Act?

A serious cholera outbreak and fear of more disease and unrest helped persuade the government to act.

What national organisation did the 1848 Public Health Act create?

It set up a national Board of Health to guide and support local areas on how to improve public health.

What could local boards of health do under the 1848 Public Health Act?

They could build sewers, supply clean water, collect rubbish, improve drainage and appoint a Medical Officer of Health.

In which towns could a local board of health be set up under the 1848 Act?

In towns with a high death rate (over 23 per 1,000 people) or where at least 10% of ratepayers asked for one.

Why is the 1848 Public Health Act described as “permissive” rather than “compulsory”?

Because it allowed towns to use the new powers if they wished, but did not force every town to make changes.

Why did many town leaders oppose setting up local boards of health?

They did not want to raise local taxes (rates) to pay for sewers and water, and some still believed government should not interfere.

Why is the 1848 Public Health Act seen as important even though its impact was limited?

It was the first time central government accepted some responsibility for public health, starting a move away from strict laissez-faire.

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