Peelites

Supporters of Sir Robert Peel who, after the Conservative Party split over the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846, formed a distinct political group. Generally committed to free trade, moderate government, and administrative reform, they stood between the Conservatives and Liberals. Although never a large independent party, Peelites were influential in mid-Victorian politics and several prominent members, including William Gladstone, eventually joined the Liberal Party, helping to form it in the 1850s–60s.