Tory

Tory. The term Tory denotes a member or supporter of a political tradition, historically associated with British Conservatism, and is the colloquial name for the Conservative Party in the United Kingdom. Originating as a pejorative for Irish bandits, it was adopted in the late 17th century by opponents of the Exclusion Bill who supported the succession of James II. Over centuries, the label evolved from representing the landed aristocracy and High Church interests to encompassing a broad centre-right coalition, with modern parties like the Conservative Party of Canada also using the name.

Etymology and historical usage

The term derives from the Middle Irish word *tóraí*, meaning "pursuer" or "outlaw," and was used in the 17th century to describe Irish Catholic guerrillas resisting English settlement in Ireland. During the Exclusion Crisis (1679–1681), it was applied as an insult by the Whigs to those who opposed excluding the Duke of York, a Roman Catholic, from the throne. These supporters of hereditary monarchy and the Church of England, led by figures like the Earl of Halifax, embraced the name. Throughout the 18th century, the Tories were often in opposition to the dominant Whig supremacy, particularly under Robert Walpole, and were associated with the Jacobite cause until the Hanoverian succession solidified. The term fell into disuse after the American Revolution but was revived in the early 19th century.

Political history

The modern political lineage begins with the emergence of the Conservative Party under Sir Robert Peel following the Reform Act of 1832. Peel's Tamworth Manifesto outlined a new conservatism accepting moderate reform. The party alternated in power with the Liberal Party throughout the Victorian era, with prominent leaders including Benjamin Disraeli, who cultivated the party's link to the British Empire and One-nation conservatism. The 20th century saw the party, often in coalition as during World War I, dominate under figures like Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher, whose policies transformed the British economy. In Canada, the Progressive Conservative Party and its successors have used the Tory label since the days of John A. Macdonald.

Ideology and principles

Historically, Toryism emphasized tradition, hierarchy, and allegiance to the Crown and established church. In the 19th century, under Benjamin Disraeli, it incorporated One-nation conservatism, emphasizing social obligation and imperial unity. The 20th century saw ideological shifts between the interventionist post-war consensus associated with Harold Macmillan and the free-market liberalism of Margaret Thatcher. Core principles often include a strong national identity, close ties to the United States and NATO, fiscal conservatism, and a sceptical view of European integration, as seen in the Brexit campaign led by Boris Johnson.

Modern usage and parties

In the United Kingdom, "Tory" is synonymous with the Conservative Party, led by figures such as Rishi Sunak. The party is a member of the International Democrat Union and the European Conservatives and Reformists Party. In Canada, the term is used for the Conservative Party of Canada, historically led by Stephen Harper, and its provincial counterparts like the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario. The name is also used by conservative parties in other Commonwealth realms, such as the Namibian party and historically in American Loyalist circles. Media outlets like The Daily Telegraph and The Spectator are considered traditionally aligned with Tory viewpoints.

Criticism and controversy

Critics, often from the Labour Party and Liberal Democrats, have historically accused Tories of representing the interests of the landed gentry and financial elite, as highlighted during the Industrial Revolution and the Peterloo Massacre. The Irish Unionist association and policies during the Irish Home Rule movement have been sources of contention. In the modern era, controversies include the social impact of austerity policies under David Cameron, the Partygate scandal during Boris Johnson's premiership, and internal divisions over European Union membership that led to the downfall of Theresa May. The party has also faced criticism regarding its stance on climate change and relations with the Scottish National Party and Sinn Féin. Category:Conservatism in the United Kingdom Category:Political history of the United Kingdom Category:Political terminology