Liberal Government 1868–1874

The Conservative government under Benjamin Disraeli had been defeated at the General Election, so in December 1868 the victorious William Ewart Gladstone formed his first government. He introduced reforms in the Army (including the abolition of the purchase system), the legal system (establishing the Supreme Court of Judicature) and the Civil Service, and disestablished the Church of Ireland. In foreign affairs he pursued a peaceful policy. His government was defeated in the General Election of 1874, whereupon Disraeli formed another government and Gladstone retired as Leader of the Liberal Party.

† The Earl de Grey was created the Marquess of Ripon in 1871. ‡ Henry Austin Bruce was created Baron Aberdare in 1873.

Cabinet members are listed in bold face.