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William Pitt, 1st Earl of Chatham PC (often called Pitt the Elder, 15 November 1708 – 11 May 1778) was a British statesman who achieved his greatest fame as Secretary of State during the Seven Years' War, and who was later Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. As Secretary of State, Pitt was arguably as important to British government as Thomas Pelham-Holles, 1st Duke of Newcastle, the Prime Minister. Pitt was the architect of the winning British strategy of financial support of Prussia, thereby tying French resources down in Europe, allowing Britain to achieve victory in North America.
His term as Prime Minister (1766-1768) is generally considered unsuccessful, particularly as many of the duties and taxes that helped lay the foundation for the American Revolution were enacted by his ministry.
William Pitt in The Two Georges[]
William Pitt was the Prime Minister during a period of political tension between Britain and its North American colonies. He played a significant role in easing those tensions and ensuring the colonists remained content British subjects.
Pitt was one of the historical figures depicted in the painting The Two Georges.[1]
References[]
- ↑ The Two Georges, pgs. 28-29, MPB.
Political offices (OTL) | ||
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Preceded by Robert Darcy, 4th Earl of Holdernesse |
Secretary of State for the Southern Department 1757–1761 |
Succeeded by Charles Wyndham, 2nd Earl of Egremont |
Preceded by Marquess of Rockingham |
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom 1766-1768 |
Succeeded by Duke of Grafton |
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