Victimisation of the Tolpuddle Martyrs inspired widespread outcry in Britain. Trade unionists and supporters recognised this a‎s an attack on the rights of workers to organise for better conditions and influence in society at large.

The Grand National Consolidated Trades Union called a meeting - attended by more than 10,000 - on 24 March 1834. On 21 April Copenhagen Fields in London was flooded with up to 100,000 trade unionists; they marched to Parliament and delivered a petition signed by 250,000 people.

In response to public outrage, a conditional pardon was granted by June 1835. Pressure mounted as petitions from all over the country were delivered to Parliament. Full and free pardons were granted in March 1836.