There were a number of financial and economic reasons why Chartism emerged as a mass movement by 1838. Many political leaders in Britain were becoming increasingly attracted to establishing s system of 'free trade', thus benefiting consumers. This was considered as threat to the working people because the utilitarians (those considering the main aim of government to be to ensure the greatest happiness for the greatest number) believed that the only proper mechanism for regulating wages, prices and working conditions was market forces in a free trade economy.

An increase in the adoption of free trade policies, which stimulated innovation and development, was considered as an attack on old work practices and perceptions of rights. This was highlighted by the removal of apprenticeship regulations in 1813-14. Skilled workers fought bitterly against this decision and the wholesale introduction of unskilled labour in many trades. In particular, the Luddites went around destroying machinery as many of them had been replaced by people who could work the new equipment. Indeed, many were hit hard due to industrialisation. Against the consequences of free trade, therefore, workers looked to political change as a means of reasserting ancient rights. The working class radicals also had the temporary support of the Tory humanitarians.