Charles Dundas (MP) facts for kids
Charles Lawrence Dundas (born July 18, 1771 – died January 25, 1810) was an important British politician. He was a member of the Whig party, which was a major political group in Britain at the time. He served in the House of Commons, which is like the main law-making body in the UK. Dundas represented two different areas during his time in Parliament: Malton from 1798 to 1805, and Richmond from 1806 until he passed away.
Early Life and Education
Charles Lawrence Dundas was born in London on July 18, 1771. He was the third son of Thomas Dundas and Lady Charlotte Fitzwilliam. His father, Thomas Dundas, later became known as the first Baron Dundas. Charles had several brothers, including Lawrence Dundas, who became the first Earl of Zetland. His younger brothers were George Heneage Lawrence Dundas and Robert Lawrence Dundas.
Charles went to Harrow School, a famous school in England. After that, he studied at Trinity College, Cambridge University. He earned his first degree in 1792 and a master's degree in 1795. He also studied law and became a lawyer in 1795.
Political Career
In 1794, Charles Dundas started working as a private secretary for the Duke of Portland. This was a big step in his career. His uncle, Earl Fitzwilliam, helped him get this important job.
In 1798, Charles became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Malton. His uncle, Earl Fitzwilliam, suggested him for the role. As an MP, Charles often voted the same way as his family's political views. He was a "Foxite," which meant he followed the ideas of a leading Whig politician named Charles James Fox.
Dundas voted against the idea of uniting Great Britain and Ireland in 1799 and 1800. In 1805, he stepped down from his seat in Malton. This allowed another important politician, Henry Grattan, to become an MP. The next year, in 1806, Charles became the MP for Richmond in Yorkshire. He took over from his younger brother, George, who went back to his naval duties.
Family Life
Charles Lawrence Dundas married Lady Caroline Beauclerk. She was the daughter of the fifth Duke of St Albans. Charles and Caroline had five children together: two sons and three daughters.
- Ann Dundas (born 1800)
- Frederick Dundas (born 1802), who also became an MP
- William Laurence Dundas (born 1803), who sadly died as a young child
- Catherine Elizabeth (born 1805)
- Charlotte Amelia (born 1808)
Charles Lawrence Dundas became ill and passed away in 1810 while he was still serving as an MP. He was 40 years old.
