Anthony Chamier facts for kids
Anthony Chamier (born October 6, 1725 – died October 12, 1780) was an important English official, money expert, and politician. He was a member of the House of Commons (a part of the British Parliament) from 1778 to 1780. He was also a good friend of the famous writer Samuel Johnson.
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Anthony Chamier's Life
Anthony Chamier was born on October 6, 1725. His family were Huguenots, which means they were French Protestants who had to leave France because of their religion. He was baptized in a special church in London.
When he was young, Anthony worked as a broker on the Stock Exchange. This meant he helped people buy and sell shares in companies.
Becoming a Government Official
Anthony later got a job working for the government. In January 1772, he became the deputy secretary at war. This was an important role helping with army matters.
In 1775, he was promoted again. He became an under-secretary of state for the southern department. This job involved helping with foreign affairs.
Time in Parliament
On June 10, 1778, Anthony Chamier was elected as a Member of Parliament for the area of Tamworth. This meant he represented the people of Tamworth in the British Parliament.
He was re-elected to Parliament on September 11, 1780. This was just a month before he passed away. Anthony Chamier died in Savile Row, London, on October 12, 1780. He was buried at St James's, Piccadilly.
Friends and Connections
Anthony Chamier had many interesting friends and connections. He was part of a famous group called the Literary Club.
The Literary Club
In 1764, Anthony Chamier became one of the first members of the Literary Club. This was a famous group of writers and thinkers. Samuel Johnson, a very well-known writer, was also a member.
Samuel Johnson even thought Chamier would be good at teaching. He suggested Chamier could teach "commercial politics" at a university. Chamier's country home was in Streatham. Samuel Johnson often visited him there, even on his 70th birthday.
Royal Society and Portraits
In 1767, Anthony Chamier was chosen as a fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group for scientists.
He also had his portrait painted three times by Sir Joshua Reynolds. Reynolds was a famous painter of that time.
Chamier's Family
Anthony Chamier married a woman named Dorothy Wilson. She was the daughter of a merchant from London. Dorothy had a sister who married Thomas Bradshaw. Thomas Bradshaw also worked in government. He was a private secretary to the Duke of Grafton.
Anthony Chamier did not have any children of his own. When he died, his property went to his nephew, John Deschamps. His will asked his nephew to take the Chamier family name.
