Anthony Ashley Cooper, 4th Earl of Shaftesbury facts for kids
Anthony Ashley Cooper, the 4th Earl of Shaftesbury, was an important British leader. He lived from 1711 to 1771. He was known for helping to start the Georgia colony in America. He also served as the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, a royal representative, from 1734 until his death.
A Family of Big Thinkers
Anthony Ashley Cooper was the only child of the 3rd Earl of Shaftesbury. His father passed away when Anthony was very young, in 1713. This meant Anthony inherited his family's titles and lands early.
He grew up learning about his family's history. He especially looked up to his father and his great-grandfather. Both were very influential people.
In 1732, Anthony helped publish a new version of his father's famous book. It was called Characteristicks of Men, Manners, Opinions, Times. This book was very important during the Enlightenment in Britain. Some historians even called his father the "greatest Stoic of modern times."
Shaftesbury also asked Benjamin Martyn to write a book about his great-grandfather. Martyn was the Secretary for the group that started the Georgia colony. Shaftesbury got to know Martyn well when he joined this group in 1733.
Helping Start the Georgia Colony
Shaftesbury joined the Trustees for the Establishment of the Colony of Georgia in America in 1733. This was less than a year after the group was officially created. Because of his family's focus on new ideas, he likely saw Georgia as a chance to build a perfect society. It also helped with other practical goals.
By 1750, Shaftesbury became a main leader among the Trustees. He helped guide the colony's rules in a more traditional way. This prepared Georgia to become a royal colony in 1752, meaning it would be directly controlled by the British king.
His Family
Shaftesbury married his cousin, Susan Noel, in 1724. They did not have any children together.
Later, in 1759, he married Mary Bouverie. They had three children:
- Anthony Ashley Cooper, who became the 5th Earl of Shaftesbury.
- Cropley Ashley Cooper, who became the 6th Earl of Shaftesbury.
- Lady Mary Anne Cooper, who married Charles Sturt.
Awards and Roles
Shaftesbury received several important honors during his life.
- In 1754, he was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a group for important scientists.
- In 1761, he became a Privy Counsellor. This meant he advised the king.
- He was also the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset from 1734 until he passed away. This role meant he was the king's main representative in that county.
