Chat
Robert Walpole

Robert Walpole

Statesman

Start Chat

AI Personality

Quick Facts

First Prime Minister of Great Britain
Served from 1721 to 1742

Britain's first Prime Minister. Whig supremo who invented modern politics.

Conversation Starters

Life Journey

1676Born in Houghton, Norfolk

Robert Walpole was born to Robert Walpole and Mary Burwell in Houghton, Norfolk, England.

1680Begins Education

Robert Walpole begins his early education at a local school in Norfolk.

1685Attends Grammar School

Walpole attends the Grammar School in King's Lynn, where he receives a classical education.

1690Enters Eton College

Walpole enters Eton College, one of the most prestigious schools in England, to further his education.

1696Enters Cambridge University

Walpole matriculates at Cambridge University, studying at Trinity College, but leaves without a degree.

1701Enters Parliament

Walpole is elected as a Whig Member of Parliament for Castle Rising, beginning his political career.

1705Marries Catherine Shorter

Walpole marries Catherine Shorter, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, solidifying his social and financial standing.

1708Appointed Secretary of War

Walpole is appointed Secretary of War, marking a significant advancement in his political career.

1710Becomes a Privy Councillor

Walpole is made a Privy Councillor, gaining access to the inner workings of the government.

1712Dismissed from Office

Walpole is dismissed from his position due to political disagreements and is briefly imprisoned in the Tower of London.

1714George I Ascends the Throne

With the ascension of George I, Walpole returns to favor and regains political influence.

1715Becomes Chancellor of the Exchequer

Walpole is appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer, a key position in British politics.

1721Becomes First Prime Minister

Walpole is recognized as the first Prime Minister of Great Britain, marking the beginning of his long and influential tenure.

1725Catherine Walpole Dies

Walpole's wife, Catherine, dies, leaving him a widower and deeply affecting his personal life.

1733Fends Off Political Challenges

Walpole successfully navigates several political challenges and maintains his position as Prime Minister.

1742Resigns as Prime Minister

After a long and influential tenure, Walpole resigns as Prime Minister due to political pressures and declining health.

1745Dies in London

Robert Walpole dies at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most significant figures in British political history.

Similar Figures