Robert Walpole
British Prime Minister, Whig leader

Born
August 26th, 1676
348 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1745
280 years ago — 68 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An influential British politician who served as the first de facto Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1721 to 1742. Walpole was a member of the Whig Party and played a significant role in shaping early 18th-century British politics. He led the government during a time of relative peace and economic stability and is often credited with establishing the office of Prime Minister as a central figure in government. His administration focused on fiscal prudence and the expansion of trade. Walpole was appointed First Lord of the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer, positions that allowed him to exert considerable influence over parliamentary proceedings and government policy.
Service as the first de facto Prime Minister
Leadership of the Whig Party
Member of Parliament for over two decades
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