1880 United Kingdom general election: Gladstone defeats Disraeli

Background. The election took place amid conditions the sources describe as difficult: the free trade system supported by both parties left Britain exposed to cheap North American wheat, a situation worsened by the worst harvest of the century in 1879. Gladstone's popularity among the working class, earned through his Midlothian campaign, contrasted with Disraeli's declining health. Conservative hopes were briefly buoyed by by-election successes in early 1880, but the Liberals defeated Disraeli's Conservatives.

Midlothian Campaign. Gladstone’s Midlothian speaking campaign of 1879–1880 is considered the first modern political campaign in Britain. He denounced Disraeli’s foreign policies, particularly regarding the Second Anglo-Afghan War. His popularity earned him the sobriquet "The People's William," which became widely associated with him during the 1880 election. The campaign involved speaking across Britain, not just in Edinburgh.

Resignation and Ministry. Following the Liberal victory, Disraeli resigned as Prime Minister on 21 April 1880. Gladstone returned as party leader, with Liberal leaders Lord Hartington and Lord Granville retiring in his favour. He formed his second ministry, serving as both Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer until 1882. The ministry lasted from June 1880 to June 1885.