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Anti-Catholic Gordon Riots, London, 6-7 June 1780
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Anti-Catholic Gordon Riots, London, 6-7 June 1780
Anti-Catholic Gordon Riots, London, 6-7 June 1780. A mob setting fire to Newgate Prison and freeing prisoners. Lord George Gordon, a retired navy lieutenant, was strongly opposed to proposals for Catholic emancipation. On 2nd June, 1780, Gordon led a crowd of 50, 000 people to the House of Commons to present a petition for the repeal of the 1778 Roman Catholic Relief Act, that had removed certain disabilities. This demonstration turned into a riot and for the next five days many Catholic chapels and private houses were destroyed. Buildings attacked and damaged included the Bank of England, Kings Bench Prison, Newgate Prison and Fleet Prison. (Colorised black and white print)
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Media ID 14989262
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Anarchy Arson Burning Colorised Colourised Confrontation Destruction Disorder Gordon Gordon Riots 1780 Lord George Newgate Gaol Newgate Prison Penitentiary Prison Prisoner Protestantism Religious Persecution Riot Rioter Rioting Lord George Gordon
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This colorized print captures the chaos and destruction of the Anti-Catholic Gordon Riots that took place in London on 6-7 June 1780. The image depicts a mob setting fire to Newgate Prison, resulting in the release of prisoners. Lord George Gordon, a retired navy lieutenant who vehemently opposed Catholic emancipation, led a crowd of approximately 50,000 people to present a petition for the repeal of the Roman Catholic Relief Act. What began as a peaceful demonstration quickly escalated into days of rioting and violence. Numerous Catholic chapels and private houses were destroyed during this period, including notable landmarks such as the Bank of England, Kings Bench Prison, Fleet Prison, and Newgate Prison. The image showcases both the religious tension and social unrest prevalent during this time. It serves as a stark reminder of how deeply divided society was over issues related to religion and political rights. The fiery backdrop symbolizes not only physical destruction but also represents anarchy and rebellion against established authority. This powerful engraving offers insight into one of London's most significant historical events from the eighteenth century - an event characterized by religious persecution, disorderly conduct, arson attacks, and mass protestation against perceived injustices.
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