Why did Wellington’s government fall in November 1830?

The government of Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, fell in November 1830 primarily due to his staunch opposition to parliamentary reform.1

Following the accession of William IV and the influence of the July Revolution in France, public demand for reform—which would grant industrial towns representation in Parliament—intensified amidst countrywide economic hardship. Wellington, however, viewed such reform as constitutional suicide.12

On November 2, 1830, he delivered an uncompromising declaration against any form of reform, which alienated many and left his ministry vulnerable. Consequently, a coalition of reformers and vengeful ultra-Tories defeated his government in Parliament on November 15. Wellington resigned the following day and was succeeded by Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey, who was committed to introducing reform legislation.12