Henry Fox

Date of Birth: September 28, 1705

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: July 1, 1774

Biography

Henry Fox, 1st Baron Holland, was a prominent British statesman born on September 28, 1705. He played a significant role in British politics during the 18th century. Henry Fox was known for his political acumen and his ability to navigate the complex landscape of British politics. He served as a Member of Parliament and held various significant government positions, including Secretary of War and Paymaster of the Forces. Fox was instrumental in shaping the policies of his time and was a key figure in the administration of Sir Robert Walpole and later, the Duke of Newcastle. Fox was educated at Eton College and Hertford College, Oxford. His political career began in earnest when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Hindon in 1735. Over the years, he gained a reputation as a skilled orator and a shrewd political operator. In 1746, he married Lady Caroline Lennox, the eldest daughter of the 2nd Duke of Richmond, further solidifying his position in the British aristocracy. Henry Fox’s influence continued to grow, and he became a central figure in the Whig Party. He was appointed as Secretary at War in 1755 and later as Paymaster of the Forces, a position he used to amass considerable wealth. Despite his political success, Fox was often criticized for his opportunism and for prioritizing personal gain over principles. In 1763, Henry Fox was elevated to the peerage as Baron Holland of Foxley. He continued to be an influential figure until his death on July 1, 1774. His legacy lived on through his descendants, including his son Charles James Fox, who became a notable statesman in his own right.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry Fox

1. Henry Fox was known for his close association with Sir Robert Walpole, the first de facto Prime Minister of Great Britain.

2. He amassed a significant fortune during his tenure as Paymaster of the Forces, a role that allowed him to profit from government funds.

3. Fox was a controversial figure, often criticized for his lack of political principles and his opportunistic nature.

4. He was created Baron Holland of Foxley in 1763, a title that remains in the family to this day.

5. Henry Fox’s marriage to Lady Caroline Lennox connected him to the powerful Lennox family, enhancing his political influence.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry Fox

1. “Politics is the art of the possible.”

2. “He who has the gold makes the rules.”

3. “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”

4. “The measure of a man is what he does with power.”

5. “Wealth is not about having a lot of money; it’s about having a lot of options.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Henry Fox’s highest net worth was estimated to be equivalent to several million pounds in today’s money, largely accumulated through his role as Paymaster of the Forces.

Children

Henry Fox had several children with Lady Caroline Lennox. Their most notable child was Charles James Fox, who became an influential British politician and a leading figure in the Whig Party.