The Conservative Hold over Scottish Civil Society: Evidence from the 1854 Edinburgh Pollbook*

As a carrier of influence and governance that stands distinct from parliamentary and municipal representation, civil society has been ascribed a particular layer of criticality in the Scottish example of the stateless nation. This article examines the voting choices made at the 1852 general election by those active within Edinburgh's voluntary associations. The evidence is generated by linking subscription lists to the city's published pollbook. Set against the dominance of the Liberal vote in Scotland's urban constituencies, this research uncovers the depth of Conservative support amongst those most active in associational life. The results offer insight into the extent that associational activity projected Conservative political hegemony and questions the liberalising trajectory of civil society.