Tory

What Exactly Is a Tory?

A Tory is an individual who supports a political philosophy known as Toryism, based on traditionalist conservatism in British history. But what does that really mean? Are Tories just old-fashioned sticklers for the status quo, or do they have something more profound to offer?

The Origins of ‘Tory’

The term ‘Tory’ has a rich and complex history. It originates from an Irish word meaning ‘to pursue’ or ‘to hunt,’ and was first used in English politics during the Exclusion Crisis of 1678-1681. But why did it become synonymous with traditionalist conservatism? Wasn’t it just a nickname for supporters of James II, who wanted to inherit the throne?

Supporters of Legitimacy

The Tory faction emerged in Parliament of England to uphold legitimist rights for James II to succeed his brother Charles II. This was no small feat; it meant defending the idea that hereditary succession should be respected, even if it went against popular opinion or modern democratic principles.

From Nickname to Political Philosophy

During the Exclusion Crisis, the word ‘Tory’ was applied as a nickname to opponents of the bill, called the Abhorrers. This term stuck and evolved over time. It later became acceptable and was added to with the suffix -ism, becoming Whiggism and Toryism.

Support for the Crown

In North America, it referred interchangeably with Loyalist to describe colonists loyal to the Crown during the American Revolution. Tories were not just political; they were also a symbol of loyalty to the British crown, even in the face of revolution and change.

The Evolution of Toryism

As time passed, Toryism evolved. Under the Corn Laws (1815–1846), a majority of Tories supported protectionist agrarianism with tariffs being imposed for higher food prices and self-sufficiency. This shows that while traditional values were important, they could also adapt to economic realities.

Modern Toryism

Edmund Burke and William Pitt the Younger led this new faction. Interventionism and strong armed forces were hallmarks of Toryism under subsequent prime ministers. Today, the term ‘Tory’ is used in Canada and UK to refer to Conservative Party members or supporters of the party.

The Canadian Context

In Canada, the term ‘Tory’ was first used to designate the pre-Confederation British ruling classes of Upper Canada and Lower Canada. The terms ‘Red Tory’ and ‘Blue Tory’ have long been used to describe the two wings of the Conservative party in post-Confederation Canada.

Neo-Liberal Shifts

With the onset of stagflation in the 1970s, some Canadian Tories adopted neo-liberal policies influenced by Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan. This led to a schism within the party, with many traditionally-minded Tories leaving to form the Reform Party of Canada.

The Future of Toryism

Under the leadership of Brian Mulroney’s Progressive Conservative Party, the term ‘Tory’ became increasingly identified with these neo-liberal policies. As a result, the party was split between red Tory and blue Tory factions. In 2003, the Canadian Alliance merged with the Progressive Conservative Party to form the Conservative Party of Canada, with Stephen Harper adopting the term ‘Tory’ as a nod to the party’s heritage.

Conclusion

The term ‘Tory’ has come a long way from its origins in Ireland and English politics. It represents a complex blend of traditional values and modern adaptation. Whether you see Tories as defenders of the status quo or innovators in political philosophy, one thing is clear: they have played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Britain and Canada.