China and the Attack on Canton (ePub)

Richard Cobden (1804-1865) was an illustrious English manufacturer, Radical and Liberal statesman, as well as a prominent figure in the anti-Corn Law League. While Cobden is not primarily known for his literary endeavors, his political writings and speeches have been extensively documented and analyzed. Among his contributions to literature is 'China and the Attack on Canton,' a work providing insights into the First Opium War (1839-1842), a pivotal event involving British commercial interests in China and the subsequent military actions at Canton (Guangzhou). Cobden was a passionate advocate for free trade and peace, and his opposition to the Opium War was aligned with his overall pacifist and anti-imperialist principles. His literary style, like his oratory, was marked by clear, persuasive arguments aimed at educating the public and influencing policy. Cobden believed that the promotion of international trade relationships would lead to greater global cooperation and peace. His life and works have been subject of many scholarly studies, reflecting upon his influence on 19th-century British politics and economic theory. Though 'China and the Attack on Canton' may be less well-known compared to his political achievements and activism, this text remains a testament to his unwavering commitment to principles of free trade and non-interventionist foreign policy.