Founding of the Anti-Corn Law League

Background. The Corn Laws protected national farming interests by taxing imported wheat, raising bread prices while factory owners sought to cut wages. The Anti-Corn Law League emerged as a successful political movement in Great Britain, primarily driven by middle-class interests. It aimed to convince parliament to repeal these laws through a crusade involving well-attended rallies and closely argued tracts, marking a shift in industrial versus agricultural power.

Formation and Leadership. While the first Anti-Corn Law Association was established in London in 1836, the nationwide League was founded in 1838. Richard Cobden and John Bright were among its leaders. Cobden suggested transforming local associations into a national association, the Anti-Corn Law League, which was formed in Manchester. This organization combined various local groups to create a unified front for abolition.

Methods and Influence. The League employed emotionally charged meetings and distributed nine million tracts in 1843 alone. Although it had restricted capability for contesting electoral seats, it created a favorable climate of opinion. Historian Asa Briggs noted Cobden promised repeal would settle four great problems. The movement demonstrated the power of Manchester-school industrial interests over protectionist agricultural interests.