The Life of Richard Cobden

This magisterial biography, first published in 1881, deals with the career of influential political and social reformer Richard Cobden.

John Morley (Author)

9781108026819, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 9 December 2010

490 pages, 1 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 2.8 cm, 0.62 kg

Richard Cobden (1804–1865) was a manufacturer and Liberal politician, campaigning for the repeal of the Corn Laws, and for a free market economy. His laissez-faire views on protectionism and the role of government intervention in economics had a lasting influence on British politics throughout the twentieth century as the antithesis of socialism. This Life, first published in 1881, set new standards for biographical documentation. Morley had the advantage of having not only Cobden's journals and letters to use, but access to those of many of his friends and political associates. Volume 1 considers his early life and the beginnings of his political involvement, then dealing in great detail with the Anti-Corn Law League. Morley examines the state of society in the 1840s, Cobden's role in the campaign, and particularly his influence on Sir Robert Peel. Cobden believed free trade was essential to equality and social progress.

1. Early life
2. Commercial and mental progress
3. Travels in west and east
4. The two pamphlets
5. Life in Manchester, 1837–9
6. The foundation of the League
7. The Corn Laws
8. Cobden enters Parliament - first session
9. Cobden as an agitator
10. The new Corn Law
11. Sir Robert Peel's new policy
12. Renewed activity of the League - Cobden and Sir Robert Peel - rural campaign
13. The session of 1844 - factory legislation - the constituencies
14. Bastiat - new tracts – activity in parliament - Maynooth grant - private affairs
15. The autumn of 1845
16. Repeal of the Corn Laws and fall of the government
17. Correspondence with Sir Robert Peel - cessation of the League
18. Tour over Europe
Appendix.

Subject Areas: British & Irish history [HBJD1]