Chapter 25 : Democracy and Reform In Great Britain, the strongest economic and political power during the 19th century, the government moved gradually toward democracy. Parliament was controlled by political parties, and more people gained the right to vote in elections. Social reforms somewhat improved the lives of groups traditionally outside the political system. In France political development was more violent, with the government changing in form several times. France developed industrially, but agriculture still remained an important part of the economy. In America political suffrage increased, though many groups were still excluded. The debate over slavery intensified, leading to territorial division and a bloody civil war. Once reunited, the United States became increasingly industrialized, attracted many immigrants, and emerged as a world power. Political movements in Latin America led to independence from Spanish, Portuguese, or French rule.