Richard Cobden wondered how the architects of the British Empire had the nerve to accuse Russia of imperialism.

American journalist and poet WC Bryant numbered Richard Cobden MP among the world’s statesmen, not our politicians.

Richard Cobden wanted to know why British policy towards China was so different to our policy towards the USA and European powers.

Richard Cobden questioned both the wisdom and the motives of politicians who intervene on foreign soil.

Richard Cobden was not a little envious of the USA’s open and can-do society, but he did not covet her republicanism.

Richard Cobden told an Edinburgh peace conference that the biggest threat to the United Kingdom’s security was her own foreign policy.