Cobden, Richard

Richard (1804-1865), an English statesman. He received a limited education, but acquired commercial experience in a warehouse in London, and, with the help of friends, founded a successful manufactory of cotton cloth in Manchester. Later, he was able to travel, both on the continent and in the United States. He began writing pamphlets on political conditions, and took an active part in the anticorn law agitation. In 1841 he entered Parliament, where he became known as the "apostle of free trade." He was not only foremost in the repeal of the corn laws, but may be regarded as the statesman to whom, above all others, England owes her free trade policy. His services in Parliament led to the neglect of his own business. He became involved in difficulties; but friends raised a purse of $350,000 and presented it to him, so great was their appreciation of the value of his services in Parliament. He was offered numerous honors, including membership in the British cabinet and a baronetcy, all of which he persistently refused, preferring to represent the interests of the people throughout, as he understood them. Free trade clubs the world over, bear his name. See John Bright; Corn Laws