Who was Thomas Pelham-Holles?
Q: Who was Thomas Pelham-Holles?
A: Thomas Pelham-Holles was a British Whig statesman and the third Prime Minister. He is commonly known as the Duke of Newcastle.
Q: How long did he serve in government?
A: Thomas Pelham-Holles served in government for over 30 years, from 1742 to 1754.
Q: What role did he play during the Whig supremacy of the 18th century?
A: During the Whig supremacy of the 18th century, Thomas Pelham-Holles was a protégé of Sir Robert Walpole and served under him for more than 20 years until 1742. He held power with his brother, Prime Minister Henry Pelham, until 1754 and dominated British foreign policy during this time.
Q: How many terms did he serve as Prime Minister?
A: Thomas Pelham-Holles served two separate terms as Prime Minister - one from 1754 to 1756 and another from 1757 to 1762.
Q: What is notable about his first premiership?
A: His first premiership (1754–1756) is not particularly notable; Newcastle partly caused the Seven Years' War, and his weak diplomacy cost him the premiership.
Q: After his second term as Prime Minister, what role did he take on in Lord Rockingham's ministry?
A: After his second term (1757–1762), he served briefly in Lord Rockingham's ministry before retiring from government.
Q: In which ways was Thomas Pelham-Holles most effective?
A: Thomas Pelham-Holles was most effective when serving as a deputy to a leader of greater ability such as Sir Robert Walpole, his brother Henry or William Pitt the Elder.
