The Act of Union 1800 was a significant piece of legislation that united the Kingdom of Great Britain and the Kingdom of Ireland into a single entity known as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. This act came into effect on January 1, 1801, and aimed to create a more centralized government, addressing issues of governance and representation. As a result of the Act, the Irish Parliament was dissolved, and Irish representatives were sent to the British Parliament in Westminster. This change was intended to strengthen the political ties between England and Ireland, although it also led to tensions and resistance among the Irish population, who felt their interests were often overlooked.