After Chinese authorities seized the British vessel Arrow, the Brits responded by shelling the city of Canton. This action led to the Second Opium War. The issue was brought forth to British Parliament, and in this memorable speech Richard Cobden asked the men gathered, “what are the grounds of this devastation and warfare which are now being carried on in the Canton River?” The debate over this issue continued for four days, but by the end, the majority agreed with Cobden—the attacks had been unfounded.
