The Battle of Peterloo occurred on August 16, 1819, in Manchester, England. It was a peaceful protest where around 60,000 people gathered to demand political reform and better working conditions. The crowd was calling for the extension of voting rights and the reduction of food prices, reflecting widespread discontent with the government. However, the event turned violent when local authorities sent in cavalry to disperse the crowd. The soldiers charged into the protesters, resulting in numerous injuries and several deaths. This tragic incident highlighted the tensions between the working class and the government, leading to increased calls for reform in British society.