William Petty, Earl of Shelburne, Biography

William Petty was born 2 May, 1737, Dublin, Ireland.

He was educated at Christ Church, Oxford. After leaving the university he served in Wolfe's regiment (20th Foot) during the Seven Years' War, and so distinguished himself at Minden and Kloster-Kampen that he was raised to the rank of Colonel and appointed Aide-de-Camp to the King (1760).

William Petty served as Prime Minister for 266 days. Known as The Earl of Shelburne between 1761 and 1784, by which title he is generally known to history, was a British Whig statesman who was the first Home Secretary in 1782 and then Prime Minister 1782 - 1783.

Credited with securing the peace with America, Spain and France.

William Petty died 7 May, 1805, London. Lord Lansdowne was twice married.



British Prime Ministers

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