POCKET BOROUGH Meaning and
Definition
-
A pocket borough refers to a term used primarily in British politics to describe a specific type of parliamentary constituency or electoral district. It was popular during the 18th and 19th centuries and has since become an obsolete concept.
The term "pocket borough" signifies a situation where a particular constituency is dominated by a wealthy landowner or aristocrat who effectively controls the election process and can secure the election of their preferred candidate. This influence is often achieved through various means such as owning most of the land in the area, controlling local institutions, or exerting political influence over the local population. As a result, the general populace within the area had limited, if any, independent choice in electing their representative.
Pocket boroughs were widely criticized for being undemocratic and prone to corruption, as they undermined the principles of fair representation and equal voting rights. Many politicians and reformers argued that the system granted disproportionate power to a select few, particularly the wealthy elite. The concept was further challenged during the 19th century as democratic reforms aimed at increasing suffrage and fair representation gained momentum.
Overall, a pocket borough denotes an electoral constituency that was essentially under the control of a dominant landowner, leading to a lack of fair and open electoral competition within that district.
Common Misspellings for POCKET BOROUGH
- oocket borough
- locket borough
- -ocket borough
- 0ocket borough
- picket borough
- pkcket borough
- plcket borough
- ppcket borough
- p0cket borough
- p9cket borough
- poxket borough
- povket borough
- pofket borough
- podket borough
- pocjet borough
- pocmet borough
- poclet borough
- pocoet borough
- pociet borough
Etymology of POCKET BOROUGH
The word "pocket borough" is derived from two separate origins.
First, "pocket" comes from the Old English word "pocca", which means a small bag or pouch used for carrying items. Over time, it became associated with a small compartment or enclosure, which eventually led to its modern meaning of a small space designed for holding something, such as a pocket in clothing.
Second, "borough" has its origins in the Old English word "burh", which referred to a fortified town or settlement. Later, it evolved to indicate a town or district that has some level of local self-government. In the context of "pocket borough", it refers to a specific electoral district or constituency.
"Pocket borough" was a term commonly used in British politics during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Similar spelling words for POCKET BOROUGH
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
