Anti-Corn Law League
The Anti-Corn Law League was a political movement in 19th-century England that aimed to abolish the Corn Laws, which imposed high tariffs on imported grain. These laws protected local farmers but led to higher food prices for consumers, particularly affecting the working class. The league was founded in 1838 and gained significant support from industrialists and urban workers who wanted cheaper food to improve living standards.
The league organized campaigns, public meetings, and petitions to raise awareness about the negative impacts of the Corn Laws. Key figures included Richard Cobden and John Bright, who argued that free trade would benefit the economy. Their efforts contributed to the eventual repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846, marking a significant shift towards free trade policies in Britain.