The Anti-Corn Law League was established by Richard Cobden in Manchester, England, in response to the economic hardships endured by the working class due to the high price of bread resulting from the Corn Laws. These laws were designed to protect domestic agriculture but inadvertently raised food prices for consumers. Cobden, along with his colleagues, sought to repeal these laws, arguing that they hindered economic growth and exacerbated poverty. The League aimed to bring together industrialists, workers, and advocates of free trade to campaign for policy changes that would lower food prices and foster competition. This grassroots movement effectively harnessed public opinion through petitions, public speaking, and widespread meetings, engaging ordinary citizens in the political process. Cobden’s tireless efforts not only galvanized support in urban areas but also spread to various regions across Britain. The League became instrumental in the political discourse of the time, advocating for the principles of economic liberalism and free trade.

By the early 1840s, the League's sustained efforts culminated in a significant political transformation, influencing policymakers and public opinion. The repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846 marked a crucial victory for Cobden and the League, signaling a shift towards free trade in Britain. The success of the Anti-Corn Law League not only changed Britain’s agricultural policies but also laid the groundwork for other social reform movements throughout the 19th century, demonstrating the power of organized citizen action and the impact of economic policy on societal well-being.