Lord North

Date of Birth: April 13, 1732

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: August 5, 1792

Biography

Frederick North, commonly known as Lord North, was a prominent British statesman who played a pivotal role in the history of the United Kingdom. Born on April 13, 1732, in London, England, he was the son of Francis North, 1st Earl of Guilford. Lord North is best remembered for his tenure as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1770 to 1782, a period marked by significant political and military events, most notably the American Revolutionary War. Educated at Eton College and Trinity College, Oxford, North entered politics at a young age. He was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Banbury in 1754 and quickly climbed the political ladder. North served in various governmental roles including Lord of the Treasury, Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Leader of the House of Commons before becoming Prime Minister. During his time as Prime Minister, Lord North faced numerous challenges, including rising tensions with the American colonies. His administration is often criticized for its handling of the American Revolution, leading to the loss of the American colonies. Despite this, North was known for his wit, intelligence, and administrative skills. After resigning as Prime Minister in 1782, North continued to serve in various political roles, including as Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary. He retired from public life in the late 1780s due to health issues and passed away on August 5, 1792.

5 Interesting Facts about Lord North

1. Lord North was the second Prime Minister of Great Britain to have been educated at Eton College, following the Duke of Newcastle.

2. He was initially opposed to harsh measures against the American colonies but later enforced the Coercive Acts, which intensified the conflict.

3. North was the Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1767 to 1782, serving under multiple administrations.

4. He formed a coalition government with Charles James Fox in 1783, known as the Fox-North Coalition.

5. Lord North suffered from blindness in his later years, a condition that ultimately led to his retirement from public life.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Lord North

1. “I can never acquiesce in the loss of the colonies.”

2. “If I were an American, as I am an Englishman, while a foreign troop was landed in my country, I never would lay down my arms.”

3. “The die is now cast; the colonies must either submit or triumph.”

4. “Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.”

5. “I do not know the method of drawing up an indictment against a whole people.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, Lord North’s net worth was modest compared to modern standards, primarily consisting of his estates and political earnings. Exact figures are not well-documented, but his wealth was significant enough to support his aristocratic lifestyle.

Children

Lord North had seven children with his wife, Anne Speke. Their children included: 1. George Augustus North, 3rd Earl of Guilford 2. Francis North, who became a clergyman 3. Frederick North, who served as a Member of Parliament 4. Charlotte North 5. Anne North 6. Catherine North 7. Maria North