The Tolpuddle Martyrs were six agricultural labourers from the village of Tolpuddle in Dorset, England, who, in 1834, were convicted of swearing a secret oath as members of the Friendly Society of Agricultural Labourers. They were arrested on charges under an obscure act during a labour dispute against cutting wages before being convicted in R v Loveless and Others and sentenced to penal transportation to Australia. They were pardoned in 1836 after mass protests by sympathisers and support from Lord John Russell and returned to England between 1837 and 1839.
The Tolpuddle Martyrs became a popular cause for the early union and workers' rights movements.
1834Mar, 18
Six farm labourers from Tolpuddle, Dorset, England are sentenced to be transported to Australia for forming a trade union.
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Events on 1834
- 29Apr
Second voyage of HMS Beagle
Charles Darwin during the second survey voyage of HMS Beagle, ascended the Bell mountain, Cerro La Campana on 17 August 1834, his visit being commemorated by a memorial plaque.[1] - 1Aug
Slavery Abolition Act 1833
Slavery is abolished in the British Empire as the Slavery Abolition Act 1833 comes into force. - 16Oct
Burning of Parliament
Much of the ancient structure of the Palace of Westminster in London burns to the ground. - 1Dec
Slavery Abolition Act 1833
Slavery is abolished in the Cape Colony in accordance with the Slavery Abolition Act 1833.