Carmarthen–Halifax ministry facts for kids
William III and Mary II became rulers of England in 1689. Their first government, called a "ministry," was a tricky time. King William wanted to bring together different political groups. He needed the Whigs, who helped him become king. But he also needed the Tories to stay in power.
This was a very uncertain period for England. People wondered if the previous king, James II, would try to return. No one was sure if everyone would accept William and Mary as their new monarchs. In the end, the government faced many challenges. One key leader, Halifax, left his position. Another important leader, Carmarthen, remained in power.
Who Was in the Government?
This table shows some of the important people who served in William and Mary's first government from 1689 to 1690. These roles were like the main jobs in the government back then.
| OFFICE | NAME | TERM |
| First Lord of the Treasury | The Earl of Monmouth | 1689–1690 |
| Lord Keeper | In Commission | 1689–1690 |
| Lord President of the Council | The Marquess of Carmarthen | 1689–1690 |
| Lord Privy Seal | The Marquess of Halifax | 1689–1690 |
| Lord Steward | The Duke of Devonshire | 1689–1690 |
| Lord Chamberlain | The Earl of Dorset | 1689–1690 |
| Master of the Horse | Henry Nassau | 1689–1690 |
| Southern Secretary | The Earl of Shrewsbury | 1689–1690 |
| Northern Secretary | The Earl of Nottingham | 1689–1690 |
| Chancellor of the Exchequer | The Lord Delamere | 1689–1690 |
| Preceded by Ministry of the Chits |
Government of England 1689–1690 |
Succeeded by Carmarthen ministry |
